Famous and Well-Known People, Places and Things from Taranaki.

Taranaki, New Zealand, is known for its natural beauty, rich culture, and thriving economy. In this article, we take a look at New Plymouth and Taranaki in “famous fives”: 5 famous people from New Plymouth or Taranaki and 5 famous things – all the more reasons to visit and know a little more about the region.

We’ll start with the things: Taranaki and New Plymouth are known for several iconic landmarks, cultural sites, and unique products.

Five famous things that come from this beautiful area of NZ:

1. Taranaki Maunga: This majestic, symmetrical volcano is one of New Zealand's most iconic natural landmarks. It offers stunning hiking trails and breathtaking views and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
2. Pukekura Park: Located in the heart of New Plymouth, Pukekura Park is one of New Zealand's premier botanical gardens. It features beautiful landscapes, bush walks, formal gardens, lakes, and the Bowl of Brooklands, an outdoor concert venue.
3. Govett-Brewster Art Gallery/Len Lye Centre: This contemporary art museum in New Plymouth is renowned for its innovative exhibitions and dedication to the works of kinetic artist Len Lye. The striking architecture of the Len Lye Centre is a must-see for art lovers.
4. New Plymouth Coastal Walkway: This award-winning 13 km path hugs the coastline, offering stunning ocean views and access to serene beaches. It's perfect for walking, cycling, and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.
5. Puke Ariki: An integrated knowledge hub in New Plymouth, Puke Ariki combines a museum, library, and visitor information centre. It offers fascinating exhibitions on the region's history, culture, and natural environment.

And now onto famous people: 5 well-known people from the region:

1. Melanie Lynskey: An acclaimed actress, Melanie Lynskey is known for her roles in films such as Heavenly Creatures and Up in the Air, as well as TV shows like Two and a Half Men, The Last of Us and Yellowjackets.
2. Anthony McCarten: A successful screenwriter, Anthony McCarten is known for his work on films such as The Theory of Everything, Darkest Hour, and Bohemian Rhapsody." He has received multiple awards and nominations for his screenwriting
3. Lucy Hockings: A prominent journalist and news presenter, Lucy Hockings is known for her work with BBC World News. Currently anchoring BBC World News Now, she has covered major global events for many years and is a respected figure in international journalism.
4. Ben Hurley: A well-known comedian, Ben’s comedy is largely based on his experiences growing up in the rural Taranaki region of New Zealand but also deals with topics like relationships, religion, music, politics and his family. He is constantly touring, having played all over the UK, Ireland, Asia, Australia and New Zealand.
5. Ruth Richardson^: is a retired New Zealand politician of the National Party who served as Minister of Finance from 1990 to 1993. Her 1991 budget, which she dubbed the "Mother of all Budgets", formed the catalyst for her party's economic reforms known in the media as "Ruthanasia".

“What about sports!?” and “Why haven’t you mentioned rugby yet?” Well, I assumed that the famous Barrett family would be famous enough to go without mentioning. But we’re here now, so how about 5 famous sports people from New Plymouth or Taranaki: 

1. The Barrett family in general, but probably more specifically, brothers Scott, Jordi and Beauden. The Barrett family is a testament to the power of dedication, hard work, and family support. Their contributions to sport and rugby have made them household names in New Zealand and beyond.
2. Michaela Blyde: A talented rugby sevens player, Michaela Blyde has represented New Zealand in various international competitions, including the Olympics, where she has won back-to-back gold medals. She is known for her speed and agility on the field
3. Aimee Watkins: A former cricketer, Aimee Watkins captained the New Zealand women's cricket team. She was New Zealand's leading wicket-taker at the 2009 Women's Cricket World Cup. Well-known for her all-round abilities as a batter and bowler
4. Ian Ballinger: A sports shooter, Ian Ballinger represented New Zealand in the Olympics and Commonwealth Games. He won a bronze medal in the 1968 Mexico City Olympics and competed in three consecutive Olympics.
5. Paul Cracroft-Wilson: is a New Zealand surf lifesaver from Fitzroy Beach who competed in the Open Men's division and beach flags. He was a key member of the New Zealand Black Fins team that won the World Surf Life Saving Championships in 2012, 2014, and 2016. 

From world-class surf breaks to a picture-perfect ancestral mountain, Taranaki has so much culture, beauty and fun on offer all year round. Let Fitzroy Beach Holiday Park take care of your accommodation – Book early, Book now.