New Plymouth

New Plymouth consistently records among the highest sunshine hours in New Zealand. The city serves a region that is mostly engaged in dairy farming and the production of oil, gas and petrochemicals.

Puke Ariki is a world-class museum and heritage centre. Visit the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery if you appreciate contemporary art.

Wanganui

During the early days of European settlement, Wanganui became an important trading post. Prominent heritage buildings in the city include the Royal Wanganui Opera House and the Sarjeant Art Gallery. Much of the city lies on the river's northwest bank.

Explore the Whanganui River by paddle steamer. Catch the Durie Hill elevator. Built in 1919, it is one of only a few earthbound elevators in the world.

Hawera

Home to the largest one-site dairy factory in the world, it is the main town for the Southern Taranaki District. Make sure to visit the Tawhiti Museum, which includes a restored bush railway.

Check out the town's water tower, which was built after a series of devastating fires in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Take a look at the Dairyland Visitor Centre, which features interactive displays of dairying.