Things To Do
in Hawera

Hawera is a charming town located in the Taranaki region of New Zealand, known for its rich agricultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. It serves as a gateway to the iconic Mount Taranaki and offers a blend of cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. The town is characterized by its friendly atmosphere, historic buildings, and well-maintained parks.

Visitors can enjoy various activities, including exploring local art galleries, visiting the Taranaki Aviation Museum, and sampling regional cuisine.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Hawera
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, then visit the Taranaki Aviation Museum to learn about the region's aviation history.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely stroll through King Edward Park, enjoying the gardens and playgrounds before visiting the local art galleries.

evening
:

Dine at a popular restaurant featuring local dishes, followed by a relaxed evening walk to enjoy the town's ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Nature
morning
:

Have breakfast at a café and then head to the nearby Patea River for a kayak adventure.

afternoon
:

Explore the coastal area, possibly visiting the nearby beaches for a swim or sunbathing.

evening
:

Enjoy a casual dinner at a family-friendly restaurant and finish with a drink at a local bar.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$20
Coffee$4
🍦Ice cream cone$3
🚌Local bus fare$2
🏨Hotel room per night$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming local community.
  • Rich agricultural and cultural heritage.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation can be sparse.
  • Some attractions may require a car to access.
  • "Kia ora" - Hello
  • "Tēnā koe" - Thank you
  • "Haere mai" - Welcome
  • "Aroha mai" - Sorry
  • "Ka kite" - See you later

Places to Visit in Hawera

Visit one of these nice places.

Mount Taranaki

An iconic and stunning volcanic mountain, offering breathtaking views and a perfect backdrop for photography.

Hawera Water Tower

A historical landmark in the town, providing a unique perspective of Hawera and its surroundings.

King Edward Park

With its beautiful gardens, ponds, and sculptures, this park is ideal for capturing the essence of Hawera.

Culinary Guide

Food in Hawera

Hawera's culinary scene is a delightful mix of traditional and contemporary New Zealand cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh, local produce.

Hawera Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pavlova

A classic Kiwi dessert made from meringue, topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.

Must-Try!

Fish and Chips

A beloved takeaway dish featuring battered fish and crispy chips, often enjoyed by the seaside.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Hawera Farmers Market

A vibrant market held weekly, showcasing fresh produce, artisan goods, and local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Hawera experiences a temperate climate with mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 5°C to 12°C (41°F to 54°F). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with wettest months typically being August and September.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Nature

New Zealanders place a high value on the environment; always clean up after yourself and respect wildlife.

Casual Greetings

A simple 'Kia ora' (hello) is a friendly way to greet locals.

Queuing Up

Kiwis are polite and often queue up in an orderly fashion; it’s important to wait your turn.

Safety Guide

Safety

Hawera is generally a safe town for visitors, with low crime rates. However, it's always advisable to take standard precautions such as securing valuables, being aware of your surroundings, and avoiding isolated areas at night.

Tipping in Hawera

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not obligatory in New Zealand, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change for exceptional service is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, and cash can be withdrawn from ATMs located throughout the town.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Expect warm temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities and visiting local beaches.

Autumn

Enjoy mild weather with beautiful fall foliage, great for hiking and photography.

Winter

Cool temperatures with occasional rain; ideal for indoor activities and cozy café visits.

Spring

A lovely season with blooming flowers and mild temperatures, perfect for enjoying the parks.

Nightlife Guide

Hawera at Night

Hawera has a laid-back nightlife scene with a mix of pubs, bars, and live music venues. While not as vibrant as larger cities, you can find local bars like The Good Home and The White Hart where you can enjoy a drink and socialize with locals. Some venues offer live music and events, creating a friendly atmosphere for relaxation after a day of exploring.

Hiking in Hawera

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Egmont National Park - Dawson Falls

A scenic hiking trail that leads through lush forest and offers stunning views of waterfalls and Mount Taranaki.

Pukeiti Gardens

A picturesque hiking area featuring beautiful gardens and trails that wind through native bush, suitable for all skill levels.

Airports

How to reach Hawera by plane.

New Plymouth Airport

Located approximately 56 km from Hawera, this airport offers domestic flights to several major New Zealand cities, making it the nearest airport for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Hawera is quite walkable, with many attractions, shops, and parks located within a short distance of each other. The town center has pedestrian-friendly streets, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some scenic areas may require a short drive or public transport to reach.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Māori Community

The Māori community is an integral part of Hawera's cultural fabric, contributing to local traditions, festivals, and events.

European Settlers

The population also includes descendants of European settlers, contributing to the town's diverse heritage and cultural landscape.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Rugby

Rugby is immensely popular in the Taranaki region, with local clubs and a strong community following.

Cricket

Cricket also enjoys popularity, with many local teams and events held throughout the summer months.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Hawera is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include buses that connect to nearby towns. However, having a vehicle is recommended for exploring the surrounding areas and attractions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Hawera.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Gluten-Free Options

Many restaurants in Hawera offer gluten-free alternatives, ensuring that those with dietary restrictions can enjoy their meals.

Vegetarian and Vegan Choices

Most cafés and restaurants provide vegetarian and vegan options, catering to diverse dietary preferences.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Hawera has access to healthcare services, including a local hospital (Hawera Hospital) that provides emergency and general medical services. There are also several medical clinics and pharmacies available for non-emergency health needs. It is advisable for visitors to have travel insurance for additional coverage.

Discover New Zealand

Read more in our New Zealand 2025 Travel Guide.

New Zealand Travel Guide