Stratford Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Stratford, a charming town in North Island, New Zealand.


Introduction to Stratford

Nestled in the heart of Taranaki, the picturesque town of Stratford is a must-visit destination in New Zealand’s North Island. Renowned for its scenic landscapes, rich culture, and outdoor adventure opportunities, Stratford offers something for everyone.

This comprehensive travel guide of Stratford will provide you with all the information you need to plan your trip. From the top attractions to visit, to the best places to stay and things to do, we’ll cover it all.

List of Places to Visit in Stratford

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Stratford is home to several museums and historical sites that are worth a visit. The following are some of the top cultural attractions:

  • Taranaki Pioneer Village: This museum offers a glimpse into early settler life in Taranaki. Spread across ten acres of parkland, there are over 40 historic buildings to explore, including a schoolhouse, church, and blacksmith’s forge.

  • Tawhiti Museum: This award-winning museum showcases the history of Taranaki through life-size models and exhibits. The museum’s main draw card is the Traders and Whalers section, which features an impressive recreated 19th century street scene complete with stores, hotels, and a brothel.

  • Stratford’s Shakespearean Theatre: Built in the early 1900s, this unique theatre is an exact replica of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre in London. It hosts regular performances and tours.

Natural Attractions of Stratford: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Stratford is home to stunning natural landscapes that are perfect for outdoor adventurers. The following are some of the top natural attractions:

  • Mount Taranaki: This majestic mountain dominates the landscape of Taranaki and is a hiker’s paradise. There are several trails to choose from, ranging from easy walks to challenging multi-day hikes.

  • Hollard Gardens: These picturesque gardens are a haven for plant lovers, with over 10,000 plant species from around the world.

  • Egmont National Park: This park boasts lush rainforests, thundering waterfalls, and tranquil lakes, making it a paradise for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Stratford

Stratford is a great place for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some of the best routes include:

  • Pouakai Crossing: This 19-kilometre trail takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes in Egmont National Park, including waterfalls, rainforests, and alpine meadows.

  • The Forgotten World Highway: This scenic highway is a 155-kilometre route that takes you through small towns, ancient forests, and beautiful rural landscapes.

  • Te Wera Forest: This area is a mountain bikers’ paradise, with stunning trails and tracks for all levels of mountain bikers.

Best Things to Do in Stratford: Activities and Tours

In addition to the natural attractions and hiking routes, there are plenty of activities and tours to keep you busy in Stratford. Some of the best things to do include:

  • Taranaki Aviation Transport and Technology Museum: This museum showcases the history of transport and technology in Taranaki, with exhibits ranging from vintage cars to aircraft.

  • Whangamomona Hotel: This unique hotel is located on the Forgotten World Highway and is known for its quirky decor and friendly atmosphere.

  • Goblin Forest Walk: This short trail takes you through a mystical forest filled with mossy rocks and gnarled trees.

Week-Long Itinerary for Stratford

Day 1: Arrive in Stratford and check-in at your accommodation. Explore the town and head to the Stratford Shakespearean Theatre for a tour or show. Day 2: Hike up Mount Taranaki and admire the views from the top. Day 3: Visit the Taranaki Pioneer Village and get a glimpse of early settler life in Taranaki. Day 4: Explore Egmont National Park and visit the beautiful Hollard Gardens. Day 5: Take a day trip to the nearby town of New Plymouth and explore the coastal walkway. Day 6: Rent a bike and ride along the Forgotten World Highway, stopping at small towns and scenic viewpoints along the way. Day 7: Relax at your accommodation and enjoy the local food and drink scene.

Food and Drink Scene of Stratford

Must-Try Dishes

Stratford is home to several unique dishes that are a must-try for foodies. Some of the best dishes include:

  • Taranaki Surf Clams: These succulent, tasty clams are a local delicacy and can be found in several restaurants in Stratford.

  • Real NZ Ice Cream: Made from locally-sourced ingredients, this ice cream is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.

  • Creamed Pull Apart Bread: This decadent bread is stuffed with cream cheese and bacon and is a favourite amongst locals.

Local Beverages

Stratford has a thriving craft beer scene and is home to several breweries. Some of the best local beverages include:

  • Mike’s Organic Brewery: This organic brewery is well-known for its delicious cider and craft beer.

  • Three Sisters Brewery: This brewery is located in a charming historic building and serves up tasty beers and pizzas.

Where to Stay in Stratford: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Stratford offers a range of accommodations to suit all budgets. Some of the best options include:

  • Amity Court Motel: Located in the heart of Stratford, this motel offers comfortable accommodation and friendly service.

  • Broadway Lodge Motel: This motel is located just a short walk from the Stratford town centre and offers spacious rooms and free Wi-Fi.

  • Stratford Holiday Park: This campsite offers a range of accommodations, including cabins and campsites, and is located just a short drive from the town centre.

What to Buy in Stratford: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Stratford is known for its local products and handmade souvenirs. Some of the best things to buy include:

  • Taranaki Honey: This delicious honey is made from locally-sourced flowers and is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.

  • Handmade Pottery: Stratford is home to several talented potters, and their creations are available for purchase in several stores in town.

  • Pounamu: This Maori greenstone is prized for its cultural significance and can be found in several stores in town.

Local Culture and Customs of Stratford

The local culture of Stratford is heavily influenced by Maori culture, with several Maori cultural attractions and events held throughout the year. Visitors to Stratford are encouraged to respect Maori customs and traditions during their stay.

Best Time to Visit Stratford

The best time to visit Stratford is from November to April, when the weather is warm and sunny. This is also the peak tourist season, so be sure to book your accommodation in advance.

Do’s and Don’ts of Stratford

Do:

  • Respect Maori customs and traditions.
  • Treat the local environment with care and respect.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment.
  • Disrespect Maori customs and traditions.
  • Be loud and disruptive in residential areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Stratford

Stratford is a safe destination for tourists, and the crime rate is low. However, visitors are advised to take standard safety precautions, such as locking their vehicles and not leaving valuables unattended.

Health in Stratford

There are no major health concerns in Stratford, and visitors do not require any vaccinations before travelling to New Zealand. However, it is recommended to take mosquito repellent during the summer months to avoid mosquito bites.

Getting to Stratford: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Stratford

The closest airport to Stratford is New Plymouth Airport, which is located approximately 40 minutes drive away.

Bus Stations Near Stratford

Intercity buses run regular services to and from Stratford, with the Stratford Bus Interchange located in the town centre.

Other Options

Driving is the most popular way to get to Stratford, with the town located just off State Highway 3.

How to Get Around in Stratford

The best way to get around Stratford is by car, with several car rental companies operating in the town. Alternatively, visitors can hire bikes or walk around the town centre.

Where to Go Next from Stratford: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some of the best destinations to visit near Stratford include:

  • New Plymouth: This coastal city is known for its stunning beaches, art galleries, and museums. It’s just a short drive from Stratford and makes for a great day trip.

  • Whanganui: This town is known for its rich Maori history and is just a 90-minute drive from Stratford.

Conclusion

Stratford is a charming town that offers visitors the chance to experience New Zealand’s natural and cultural beauty. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and outdoor adventure opportunities, it’s no surprise that Stratford is becoming an increasingly popular destination for travellers. This travel guide will help you make the most of your stay and explore all the wonders that Stratford has to offer.

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