Surf highway 45

Day 1: New Plymouth

Spend today exploring the beaches near New Plymouth if you're here to surf. Fitzroy Beach is known for hollow waves and is regarded as one of the top mid-city surf places in the world. Back Beach, on the southern outskirts of New Plymouth, overlooks Sugar Loaf Marine Park and provides excellent swells on the shifting sandbanks. If you prefer a climb, go to Mount Taranaki, which is located in the heart of Egmont National Park. The park has 13 entrances and offers treks for people of various ages and abilities. Before meandering along the Coastal Walkway with its majestic Te Rewa Rewa bridge, visit the Puke Ariki Museum, the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery, and Pukekura Park for something less strenuous.

Day 2: New Plymouth to Oakura

Oakura, a little seaside hamlet popular with surfers, is only half an hour's drive from New Plymouth. Along with Oakura Beach, other popular surf places include Ahu Ahu, Komene Beach, and the famous Kumera Patch. The only way to get to Kumera Patch is to cross private property, so make sure you ask the owner first. The moderate and tiny waves near the south end of Komene Beach make it a favorite spot for beginner surfers. Non-surfers will like a swim and some bird watching.

Wander the Oakura Arts Trail to see artists' studios, jewelers, and craft workshops while you're in town.

Day 3: Oakura to Opunake

To get to Opunake, travel around the shore. Take the opportunity to see the historic site of Parihaka while you're on your way. Parihaka Maori employed nonviolent resistance to protest the Crown's theft of their lands in the late 1800s. Surfers should head south of Warea to Stent Road, which has a decent right-hand wave over a shallow reef. Green Meadows, Arawhata Road, Dumps, and Mungas are some of the other neighboring surf places. Opunake's small-town charm and scenic beauty are appealing to non-surfers. The 7-kilometer Opunake Walkway leads to the Te Namu pa site, which was formerly a walled Maori settlement. Visit the Cape Egmont Replica Lighthouse & Museum and the old Everybody's Theatre to learn more about the area.

Day 4: Opunake to Hawera

Kaupokanui Beach, just before the village of Manaia, is another good surfing area. A tiny museum dedicated to country music may be found in Manaia. Then head over to Ohawe, South Taranaki's most popular beach. After another 10 minutes, you'll arrive at Hawera, the last destination of your voyage. Visit the landmark Hawera Water Tower and the unusual Tawhiti Museum to learn more about this small town. Mount Taranaki is only an hour's drive away if you haven't already done so.