Tongaporutu Travel Guide

Tourist Guide
Tongaporutu showing a sunset, rugged coastline and a bay or harbour
Embrace the change of pace offered by this settlement at the mouth of the Tongaporutu River, famous for rock formations, secluded beaches and peaceful atmosphere.

Visit Tongaporutu to fish, kayak, bushwalk and enjoy the serenity of this remote region of Taranaki. The small settlement is near dense forested areas, attractive pastures and seemingly endless beaches. Stop and admire its two celebrated rock formations or drive to nearby Taranaki cities and towns for shopping, dining and nightlife.

Three Sisters and Elephant Rock are famous rock formations in Tongaporutu. See the two remaining formations of the Three Sisters. Walk along the beach at low tide to get close to the formations or capture photos from higher ground as the waves crash into the rocks. One of the three sisters has succumb to millennia of erosion.

Three Sisters and Elephant Rock are also near fascinating Māori petroglyphs (rock carvings), located inside a cave just south of the Tongaporutu River mouth. Pick up information from the visitor centre in New Plymouth to learn more about the significance of the carvings, including one of a foot with six toes.

Spend time boating on Tongaporutu River or venture to many wonderful natural areas in Taranaki. Mount Messenger is a spectacular mountain just 10 kilometres (6 miles) from the centre of Tongaporutu. The forested mountain features a steep tramping track to the summit, recommended for experienced hikers.

The Mount Messenger to Kiwi Road Track is another great long-distance walking trail with exceptional views of the surrounding forested areas. The advanced hiking track runs through dense shrub forests with patches of beech trees. Check the New Zealand Department of Conversation official website for detailed maps, seasonal restrictions and hiking advice.

Tongaporutuis perfect for visitors looking for a more secluded and peaceful coastal atmosphere. Drive from Auckland to the settlement in less than 4 hours or from New Plymouth in approximately 1 hour. Stay in small guesthouses and holiday homes in Tongaporutu or the surrounding settlements of Awakino and Mokau.

Masonic Hotel
Masonic Hotel
3 out of 5
9 McLean Street, Waitara
Fully refundable
The price is ₹5,319 per night from 6 Oct to 7 Oct
₹5,319
per night
6 Oct - 7 Oct
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Waitara. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a casino. Popular attractions Waitara Library and Waitara West Quay ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (78 reviews)
"The staff we're friendly and helpful."

Reviewed on 11 Aug 2024

Masonic Hotel
Urenui Beach Camp
Urenui Beach Camp
3 out of 5
148 Urenui Beach Road, Urenui
Stay at this 3-star golf holiday park in Urenui. Enjoy free parking, a golf course and Wi-Fi (surcharge). Popular attractions Urenui Golf Club and Yandle Park ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (5 reviews)
"Great little cabin that was spotless & better than we were expecting. They were very accommodating for our friend to pitch his tent beside us so we could all be together. Cabin is so close to the river, toilets & showers which made it very convenient & enjoyable for the kids. Highly recommend to ..."

Reviewed on 26 Dec 2017

Urenui Beach Camp
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Fitzroy Beach Holiday Park
Fitzroy Beach Holiday Park
2.5 out of 5
1d Beach St, Fitzroy, New Plymouth
Stay at this beach cabin in New Plymouth. Enjoy free parking, a garden and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Fitzroy Golf Club and East End Reserve are ...
9/10 Wonderful! (77 reviews)
"Location is primo. On the boardwalk and Fitzroy beach. You can’t beat sitting on the deck in the evening hearing the surf 👍very comfy bed. Not so comfy inside couch area however didn’t sit around inside much. 😎"

Reviewed on 17 May 2024

Fitzroy Beach Holiday Park
Quest New Plymouth
Quest New Plymouth
4.5 out of 5
21 Currie Street, New Plymouth
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury aparthotel in New Plymouth. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a rooftop terrace. Popular attractions Centre City Shopping Centre ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (609 reviews)
"Perfect location"

Reviewed on 2 Jul 2024

Quest New Plymouth
Aotea Motor Lodge
Aotea Motor Lodge
4.5 out of 5
390 Victoria Avenue, Whanganui
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury aparthotel in Whanganui. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a business centre. Popular attractions Ward Observatory and Whanganui ...
9/10 Wonderful! (371 reviews)
"Very well looked after. Clean, tidy and comfortable. Having Sky TV was great."

Reviewed on 25 Aug 2024

Aotea Motor Lodge
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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