Surf Highway 45: A 2-Day Road Trip Along the Taranaki Coast
Surf Highway 45 traces the wild western coast of Taranaki for 105 km. It runs from New Plymouth in the north to Hāwera in the south, curving around the base of Mount Taranaki the whole way. Almost every side road leads to a surf break, a black sand beach or a quiet clifftop. The drive itself takes less than two hours. However, two days lets you surf, walk and explore the towns at a relaxed pace.
What Is Surf Highway 45?
Surf Highway 45 is the touring name for State Highway 45 in Taranaki. It earned the name because of the many surf breaks found along the coast. Some of the best known have quirky names like the Kumara Patch, Graveyards, Secret Spot and Green Meadows.
The road follows the curve of a coastline shaped by Mount Taranaki. Ancient lahars, or volcanic mudflows, poured down the mountain long ago and spread across the land. They left rocky reefs and boulder banks along the shore, and these reefs create the waves that surfers chase today. Because the coast bends in a wide arc, some part of it usually has offshore winds. That makes the region one of the most reliable surf areas in New Zealand.
You do not need to surf to enjoy the drive. The route also passes art galleries, museums, cosy cafés, a historic lighthouse and some of the most important Māori heritage sites in the country.
Surf Highway 45 Map
See the Surf Highway 45 map
Planning Your Surf Highway 45 Road Trip
The highway is sealed and easy to drive, with gentle bends and light traffic. Even so, a little planning helps. Our guide to driving in New Zealand covers the basic road rules. Also keep these points in mind:
- Drive north to south or south to north. Both directions work well. This guide starts in New Plymouth because it has the most flights and accommodation.
- Respect private land. Many surf breaks are reached through farmland. Ask permission where signs say so and always close gates behind you.
- Bring a wetsuit. The water is cool all year, so a full wetsuit is needed even in summer.
- Check opening days. Some attractions, such as the Tawhiti Museum, are not open every day.
The route is also popular with travellers on campervan tours. There are freedom camping spots and holiday parks in several coastal towns.
Day 1: New Plymouth
New Plymouth is the largest city in Taranaki and the northern starting point of the route. Start your morning on the Coastal Walkway, a 13 km path that runs along the seafront. The highlight is Te Rewa Rewa Bridge, a white arched bridge that frames Mount Taranaki on a clear day. You can walk, cycle or hire an e-bike to cover the full length.
Next, head into the city centre. Puke Ariki is a waterfront museum that tells the story of Taranaki and its people. It also houses the i-SITE visitor centre. Nearby, the Len Lye Centre and the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery display bold modern art in a striking stainless steel building. The tall Wind Wand sculpture on the waterfront sways gently in the breeze and is a popular photo spot.
In the afternoon, climb Paritutu Rock for wide views over the Sugar Loaf Islands. The track is steep and short, and there is a chain to help you near the top. Finish the day at Fitzroy Beach or East End Beach. Both are good spots for beginner surfers, and local surf schools offer lessons. In summer, Pukekura Park hosts a popular festival of lights in the evenings.
Day 2: New Plymouth to Hāwera
Ōakura and the Kaitake Range
Drive south about 15 minutes to Ōakura, a relaxed beach town with a strong surf culture. Ōakura Beach is safe for swimming and also suits beginner surfers. Behind the town, the Kaitake Range has several bush walks. Lucy’s Gully is a short and easy forest walk if you want to stretch your legs. On the rocks near the shore you can also spot the remains of the SS Gairloch, a steamer that ran aground in 1903.
Okato and the Kumara Patch
Further south near Okato, you reach some of the best surf spots in Taranaki. The Kumara Patch is a well known left-hand break over a rocky reef. Nearby, Stent Road offers powerful right-hand waves. These breaks suit experienced surfers, so beginners should watch from the shore.
Cape Egmont Lighthouse and Parihaka
At Pungarehu, take the side road to the Cape Egmont Lighthouse. The cast iron tower was built in London and first stood on Mana Island near Wellington. In 1881 it was moved in sections to Cape Egmont, the most westerly point of Taranaki. From here you get a fine view back towards Mount Taranaki across the old lahar mounds.
The lighthouse story is linked with nearby Parihaka. In the 1870s the Māori leaders Te Whiti o Rongomai and Tohu Kākahi led a peaceful resistance against the government taking their land. In November 1881 armed troops invaded the settlement and arrested both men. Parihaka is still a living community, so please do not enter the pā without permission. You can learn more about its history at Puke Ariki.
Ōpunake
Ōpunake sits roughly halfway along Surf Highway 45 and has a sheltered bay with a sandy beach. The Ōpunake Loop Trail is a 10 km walk with clifftop views over the sea. Look out for the bronze statue of Olympic champion runner Peter Snell, who was born in the town. The art deco Everybody’s Theatre is another local landmark.
Manaia and Hāwera
Continue to Manaia, a small farming town known for its bread factory. Stop at the factory shop for fresh baked treats before driving on to Hāwera.
Hāwera marks the southern end of the route. Climb the 215 steps of the Hāwera Water Tower for views over the town and on to Mount Taranaki. Then visit the Tawhiti Museum just outside town. Local artist Nigel Ogle built this museum by hand. It uses life-size figures and detailed scale models to bring the history of the region to life. The Traders and Whalers boat ride and the bush railway are favourites with children. The museum mostly opens Friday to Monday, and only on Sundays during winter, so plan ahead.
Things to Do on Surf Highway 45
If you want a quick checklist, these are the top things to do on Surf Highway 45:
- Walk or cycle the New Plymouth Coastal Walkway
- Take a surf lesson at Fitzroy Beach or Ōakura
- Watch experienced surfers at the Kumara Patch or Stent Road
- Visit the Cape Egmont Lighthouse
- Learn the story of Parihaka at Puke Ariki
- Climb the Hāwera Water Tower
- Explore the Tawhiti Museum
Extend Your Trip Inland
Mount Taranaki is never far from view on this drive. If you have an extra day, head inland to Egmont National Park for waterfalls, forest walks and alpine views. Experienced hikers can take on the Mount Taranaki summit track in summer. Film fans may also know that the mountain stood in for Mount Fuji in The Last Samurai.
Final Thoughts
Surf Highway 45 is short, but it is packed with things to see. In two days you can ride waves, climb a volcanic rock, visit a historic lighthouse and learn about one of the most important peace movements in New Zealand. It also fits neatly into a longer North Island itinerary. Pack your wetsuit, keep an eye on the mountain and let the coast set the pace of your Surf Highway 45 road trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Surf Highway 45?
Surf Highway 45 is 105 km long. Driving it without stops takes around an hour and a half.
Where does Surf Highway 45 start and end?
The route runs between New Plymouth in the north and Hāwera in the south. You can drive it in either direction.
Where are the best surf spots in Taranaki?
Popular breaks include the Kumara Patch, Stent Road, Fitzroy Beach and Ōakura Beach. Stent Road and the Kumara Patch suit experienced surfers. Fitzroy and Ōakura are better for beginners.
Is Surf Highway 45 good for beginner surfers?
Yes. New Plymouth and Ōakura both have gentle beach breaks and surf schools that offer lessons and board hire.
Can you see Mount Taranaki from Surf Highway 45?
Yes. The road curves around the base of the mountain, so you can see it from most of the route on a clear day.
When is the best time to surf in Taranaki?
You can surf here all year. Autumn and winter often bring the most consistent swells. Summer brings warmer air and smaller waves, which suits beginners.
