About | Paritutu Rock
Time: 15 minutes
If you travelled within the New Plymouth area or visited Back Beach then you’ve no doubt seen the Paritutu Rock proudly standing in the distance.
Paritutu Rock and the surrounding Sugar Loaf Islands are the remnants of an ancient volcanic crater, active 1.75 million years ago.
First occupied by Māori, they painstakingly flattened the top to make shelters and kumara storage pits.
Paritutu Rock now stands at 156 metres and is an iconic sight in New Plymouth. The climb up will only take 15 minutes, but it’s a scramble to the top. It’s short, but intense. Get the kids to take it easy. Going back down can prove harder than going up.
Starting with a few flights of wooden stairs, it soon turns into uneven rock with chains to assist you in the climb. If you get tired, that’s okay. Take a breather and enjoy those spectacular views down to the Taranaki port and Ngamotu Beach.
Reaching the top, check out the rest of the 360° views. See the New Plymouth city, coastline and port. Further inland is Mt Taranaki. Look down at Back Beach, taking in the seven islands that make Sugar Loaf Islands. The water around have been protected since 1986 and are home to at least 89 species of fish. Get your binoculars out and see if you can spot any seals, dolphins or whales. If it’s a clear day you might even be able to see Mt Ruapehu, Mt Tongariro and Mt Ngauruhoe.
Paritutu Rock sits between Back Beach and Ngamotu Beach. Back Beach is a great surf destination and great for exploring. Slide down the sand dunes and have a splash and play in the water. Ngamotu Beach is a safe swimming beach and great for the kids.
Older children can do this but younger ones may find it hard. You’ll also need to be okay with heights.
Bring a warm jacket if the wind is blowing, it can get much stronger up the top.
Nearby
Puke Ariki Library and Museum
Tupare Garden
Location
Photos
A bit of a rock climbing adventure but that just made it all the more fun for these kids! The views that we were rewarded with was a highlight and we loved looking down at the beautiful Sugar Loaf Islands below.
