10 Best Things to Do in Hawera, South Taranaki

Hawera is South Taranaki's largest town — and it's packed with things to do. Whether you're here for a night or a week, this guide covers the best experiences within easy reach of The Furlong Motel.

1. Tawhiti Museum

One of New Zealand's finest private museums. Tawhiti Museum in Hawera features extraordinary life-size dioramas, miniature figures and mechanical displays that bring Taranaki history to life. Open weekends year-round and daily during school holidays. Budget 2–3 hours minimum. Located just 10 minutes from The Furlong.

2. Hawera Water Tower

Climb Hawera's iconic 1914 water tower for sweeping views of the South Taranaki plains and Mt Taranaki on clear days. At 54 steps it's an easy climb with a rewarding payoff. Open daily, small admission fee applies.

3. Egmont National Park & Mt Taranaki

The iconic cone of Mt Taranaki is just 45 minutes from Hawera. Egmont National Park offers walks for all ability levels — from the family-friendly Wilkies Pools loop to the full summit climb. The Veronica Loop (3 hours) is the most popular intermediate option.

4. Hawera Aquatic Centre

Great for families, the Hawera Aquatic Centre features a full pool, hydroslides and leisure pools. Located in the town centre, it's a five-minute drive from The Furlong.

5. South Taranaki Coast & Beaches

Opunake is South Taranaki's beach gem — a 35-minute drive from Hawera along the coast road. Safe swimming beach, surf and a good café make it a perfect half-day trip. The coastal ring road around Mt Taranaki passes through Opunake and makes for a spectacular scenic drive.

6. Hawera & District Museum

Free entry and worth a browse. The Hawera & District Museum covers local history including the land wars, early farming and the development of South Taranaki. Located in the town centre.

7. Stratford & the Forgotten World Highway

Stratford, 30 minutes north of Hawera, is the gateway to the Forgotten World Highway — a 155km scenic route through rugged Taranaki backcountry. Stratford also has a famous glockenspiel clock tower and makes a good lunch stop.

8. Egmont Racing Club

Adjacent to The Furlong Motel, Egmont Racing Club hosts regular motorsport events, car rallies and horse racing throughout the year. Check the local events calendar — you might time your visit perfectly.

9. Eltham Cheese & Local Produce

Eltham, 20 minutes from Hawera, is home to artisan cheesemakers and a proud local food culture. Pick up quality cheeses and local produce — perfect for stocking your room's kitchenette.

10. The South Taranaki Ring Road

Drive the full ring road around Mt Taranaki — a loop of about 170km passing through Hawera, Opunake, Inglewood, Stratford and back. Stop at lookout points, coastal beaches and small towns along the way. One of the best self-drive routes in the North Island.