New Plymouth, New Zealand: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for New Plymouth, New Zealand? If you're planning to go to New Plymouth, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to New Plymouth, New Zealand

Based on the climate and weather in New Plymouth, New Zealand, the best time to go is February. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for New Plymouth, New Zealand

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in New Plymouth, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for New Plymouth, New Zealand by month

January

January in New Plymouth is balmy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in New Plymouth. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to find the correct type. Many adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

If you see the TSB Bank Bowls New Zealand Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

If you vacation in New Plymouth during February, you are likely to see that it is mild. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in New Plymouth. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. It's important that you get the right type. Many adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you see the TSB Bank Bowls New Zealand Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

March in New Plymouth is mild and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in New Plymouth. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you get the necessary type. Most adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you see the TSB Bank Bowls New Zealand Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April in New Plymouth is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in New Plymouth. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

If you see the TSB Bank Bowls New Zealand Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May in New Plymouth is crisp and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in New Plymouth. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to choose the right type. Most adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you see the TSB Bank Bowls New Zealand Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

June for New Plymouth is chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in New Plymouth. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Make sure to choose the correct kind. Most adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see the TSB Bank Bowls New Zealand Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

In July, New Plymouth is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 50s F (low 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for New Plymouth, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in New Plymouth. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be careful to choose the right type. Most adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

If you see the TSB Bank Bowls New Zealand Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

August is cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in New Plymouth. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Be sure to choose the right type. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you see the TSB Bank Bowls New Zealand Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

If you visit New Plymouth during September, you will probably find that it is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in New Plymouth. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you find the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see the TSB Bank Bowls New Zealand Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

In October, New Plymouth can be chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for New Plymouth, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in New Plymouth. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Take care to choose the right type. Many adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you see the TSB Bank Bowls New Zealand Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November in New Plymouth is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 50s F (single digits C). It tends to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in New Plymouth. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Ensure that you find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you see the TSB Bank Bowls New Zealand Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December here is balmy. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, New Zealand has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in New Plymouth. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types I. Check that you pick the correct type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see the TSB Bank Bowls New Zealand Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in New Plymouth, New Zealand

New Plymouth is a wondrous destination for travelers worldwide. It is one of the most beautiful cities in New Zealand and offers an array of natural and cultural attractions. It is located on the west coast of New Zealand's North Island, and it is the second-largest city in the Taranaki region. It is a bright and vibrant place that offers a range of attractions from easy-to-do activities such as indulging in the city's culinary scene to rugged and adventurous activities like hiking and climbing the surrounding mountains.

If you're planning a trip to New Plymouth soon, you're in for a treat! This article highlights some of the top tourist attractions that must be on your to-do list when you visit New Plymouth.

1. Mount Taranaki

Mount Taranaki is an active stratovolcano and is one of the top attractions in New Plymouth. It is widely admired for its fantastic hiking trails, alpine walks, skiing opportunities, and mountaineering feats. The mountain is 2,518 meters tall, which makes it one of the most challenging and rewarding hikes in New Zealand. The routes vary in terms of difficulty, and some require more experience than others. The best time to hike the mountain is in the summer months, which span from December to March.

2. Pukekura Park

Pukekura Park is one of the most beautiful urban parks in New Zealand. The park spans over 128 hectares, and it features a botanical garden, fernery, waterfall, lakes, and a fountain that transforms into a light and sound show in the summer months. The park's floral season and summer festivals are a must-see for tourists. Pukekura Park is an excellent place for picnics, family outings, and relaxing walks.

3. Len Lye Centre

Len Lye Center is an art museum dedicated to the works of Len Lye, a filmmaker, and sculptor. The museum displays his kinetic sculptures, film art, and various collage works. It is highly regarded as one of the best contemporary art centers in New Zealand, and it is a must-visit spot for art lovers. The museum is designed with precision, and its unique architecture is an attraction in itself.

4. Puke Ariki Museum

Puke Ariki Museum is a hub of natural history, Taranaki heritage, and arts. The museum has interactive exhibits that showcase the region's history and many rotating exhibitions featuring the works of prominent New Zealand artists. The museum is home to a rare Feather cloak, which is highly regarded as one of the country's most prized possessions. It is worth a visit if you're interested in regional history, cultural artifacts, and New Zealand art.

5. Surfing at New Plymouth beaches

New Plymouth is popular for its golden sandy beaches. The city has a range of beaches that offer perfect surfing conditions, and it's no wonder that it is a hotspot for surfers from around the world. Some of the beaches to visit for surfing include Fitzroy Beach, Back Beach, and East End Beach. Additionally, beginners can learn the basics of surfing at the Surf School and have fun with the local surfing community.

In conclusion, New Plymouth, New Zealand, is a tourist destination unparalleled in natural beauty and cultural attractions. The city's combination of art, culture, and adventure creates a unique fusion that guarantees a memorable experience for visitors. Whether it's hiking Mount Taranaki, visiting the art museums, exploring Pukekura Park, or embracing the surf culture, New Plymouth has something for everyone. It is an excellent destination for a vacation and a must-visit location for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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