Taranaki
Taranaki is situated on the West Coast of the North Island. The heart of the province is the mighty Mount Egmont. With a mild climate and amongst the highest sunshine hours in the country, Taranaki is a region with beautiful scenery and plenty of opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and experience the best nature has to offer.
As of the 2006 Census, the Taranaki region held a resident population of 104,124
The area around the sunny city of New Plymouth is well-known for its black sand surfing beaches and glorious parks and gardens, particularly the dazzling array of rhododendrons and azaleas on display in spring. Many magnificent private gardens are open for public viewing year round.