Romantic Road Trips from your Belt Road base

New Zealand's Taranaki region, with its breathtaking landscapes and charming towns, offers the perfect setting for a romantic road trip. Starting from the Belt Road Seaside Holiday Park in New Plymouth, you can embark on unforgettable journeys that showcase the best of the North Island's scenic beauty, cultural hotspots, and hidden gems. Here’s a guide to some of the most enchanting road trip routes, complete with practical travel advice and must-see destinations.

Coastal Magic: New Plymouth to Hawera (2 hours non-stop driving)

Route Overview: This scenic drive along State Highway 45, also known as Surf Highway 45, hugs the coast and offers stunning ocean views, quaint villages, and fantastic surf spots.

Highlights:

Tapuae Country Estate, Omata: A short drive out of New Plymouth, along State Highway 45 (South Road). This is one of the favourite walks of locals and visitors alike, but it remains uncrowded. A beautifully peaceful stroll, gently down from the car park to the beach, via a lovely wee river. Bring your dog(s)!
Oakura: Just a 15-minute drive from New Plymouth, Oakura is a lovely beachside village perfect for a romantic walk on the black sand beach or a cosy coffee at High Tide Cafe.
Cape Egmont Lighthouse: Stop by this iconic lighthouse for a panoramic view of the coast and a perfect photo opportunity.
Opunake: This small town is known for its beautiful beach and artistic community. Visit the Opunake Walkway for a serene stroll and stop by the galleries showcasing local art.
Hawera: End your trip in Hawera with a visit to the Tawhiti Museum, which offers detailed historical exhibits. Enjoy dinner at one of the local eateries, like The Burnt Place or Upside Down Eatery.
Back Beach: On the way back to New Plymouth, make sure to stop at Back Beach and take in the amazing sunsets - such stunning colours.

Mountain Majesty: New Plymouth to Whanganui (2.5 hours, non-stop driving)

Route Overview: Travel south along State Highway 3 through rolling farmland, picturesque towns, and towards the historic city of Whanganui.

Highlights:

Stratford: Visit the Stratford Clock Tower, which performs a glockenspiel show four times a day, and take a scenic detour on the Forgotten World Highway.
Mount Damper Falls: A short hike leads to one of New Zealand’s highest waterfalls, offering a tranquil and romantic setting.
Whanganui: In Whanganui, explore the beautiful gardens at Virginia Lake, take a romantic paddleboat ride on the Whanganui River, and visit the historic Durie Hill Elevator for panoramic views of the city and river. Whanganui has a plethora of quality dining options, starting with Caroline’s Boatshed Bar & Eatery.

Rugged Romance: New Plymouth to Waitomo Caves (2 hours, 20m, non-stop)

Route Overview: This route heads northeast through stunning rural landscapes, ending at the famous Waitomo Caves.

Highlights:

Urenui: A charming small town perfect for a quick stop. Enjoy the beach or grab a snack from the local bakery.
Detour: From Mimi, to Wai’iti, to White Cliffs and back (add 30 mins driving).
- Wai’iti Beach - a picturesque beach nestled between sandstone cliffs and native bush
- White Cliffs Walkway - This walkway takes in the stunning views of the dramatic Whitecliffs, and the protected Parininihi Marine Reserve. Take note of the tidal times, and if you're a keen hiker, the complete walk takes hours!
- Three Sisters - Three Sisters Lookout gives a spectacular view above the coastline where you can see two (formerly 3) 25m rock formations known as the Three Sisters. There used to be an elephant with the sisters too, but time and erosion has reduced the gathering.
Mokau: Known for its rugged coastline and black sand beaches, Mokau is an excellent spot for a beach walk and to try the famous whitebait fritters. [The Whitebait Pattie - one of the most prized seafood delicacies in the country].
Waitomo Caves: Explore the magical glowworm caves on a guided boat tour. The ethereal glow of the cave ceilings makes for an unforgettable romantic experience. Don’t miss Ruakuri Cave and Aranui Cave for more underground wonders.

Practical Advice for Your Romantic Road Trip

Planning and Preparation:

Vehicle: Ensure your car is in good condition. If renting, opt for a comfortable vehicle suited for both coastal and rural driving.
Accommodation: Book your stays in advance, especially if you plan to visit popular spots. Ask your Belt Road hosts for some recommendations.
Packing: Bring essentials like a first-aid kit, snacks, water, and comfortable clothing. Don’t forget a camera to capture the beautiful moments.

Travel Tips:

Weather: New Zealand’s weather can be unpredictable. Check the forecast before you set out and pack accordingly.
Navigation: While GPS is useful, having a physical map can be helpful in (a few) areas with limited signal.
Local Culture: Take the time to learn about and respect the local Maori culture and customs.

A romantic road trip from Belt Road Seaside Holiday Park offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, cultural experiences, and hidden gems. With careful planning and a sense of adventure, you and your partner can create unforgettable memories while exploring the stunning landscapes and charming towns of New Zealand’s North Island. Pack your bags, hit the road, and let the romance of the journey unfold.