Visit Hawera, Taranaki, NZ
Hawera, on the South Taranaki coast and surrounded by green pastures, is known for having the largest dairy processing plant in the world.
Hawera is a gateway to South Taranaki’s famous surfing coastline, along State Highway 45, known as “Surf Highway 45”.
Reflecting Hawera’s history, the Tawhiti Museum, described as New Zealand’s best private museum, features detailed models and dioramas depicting scenes from local history.
Accommodation in Hawera (NZ)
Hawera has a good number of motels and lodges, with holiday homes and self-contained chalets available for rent all year round.
Holiday parks and backpacker accommodation are available at Hawera and at nearby locations along the coast.
Transport around Hawera
Hawera’s nearest airports are at Whanganui, about 75 minutes’ drive to the south, or New Plymouth, 60 minutes drive north. There are no rail services to the town.
Inter-city coach services stop at Hawera. Alternative transport methods include rental car, motor home and charter flight.
Within and around Hawera, taxi and bus services provide local transport.
Tourist Activities around Hawera
The Tawhiti Museum, described as New Zealand’s best private museum, illustrates aspects of the South Taranaki region’s history and technology through detailed models, dioramas and life-sized wax sculptures.
The Hawera Observatory is open to the public regularly for informative programs based around astronomical observation.
Described as a crazy activity, “dam dropping” from Hawera involves using buoyant sledges to navigate waterfalls and white-water rapids on the Waingongoro River – a must for adrenaline junkies!
Rock ’n’ Roll music fans will appreciate Hawera’s Elvis Presley Record Room, which has a collection of records and souvenirs from “the King”.
Tuturu-Mokai pa is a 19th century Maori fortified village, open to visitors for guided tours that enhance understanding of Maori culture and history.
Whareroa Dairy Factory complex – the largest in the world – is open to visitors daily.
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