Explore
South Taranaki on Your Doorstep
The Furlong puts you minutes from some of New Zealand's most underrated attractions. Here's what to see and do.
New Zealand's best private museum
5 min driveTawhiti Museum
A world-class private museum unlike anything else in New Zealand. Tawhiti Museum features life-size dioramas, scale models and a merchant-era trading post that bring South Taranaki history vividly to life. The Traders & Whalers boat ride alone is worth the trip.
Hours: Fri–Mon 10am–4pm (extended summer hours)
Address: 401 Ohangai Road, Hawera
Climb for the best view in South Taranaki
5 min walkHawera Water Tower
Built in 1914, the 54-metre Hawera Water Tower is the highest point in town — and one of the few water towers in New Zealand you can actually climb. On a clear day the views stretch from the Kāpiti Coast to the volcanic peak of Mt Taranaki.
Hours: Daily 9am–4pm (weather permitting)
Address: High Street, Hawera town centre
Pools, slides & lanes — open year-round
8 min walkHawera Aquatic Centre
South Taranaki's premier aquatic facility is an easy walk from The Furlong. The complex includes a heated indoor lap pool, a leisure pool with slides for the kids, a hydroslide and a spa pool. Perfect after a long drive or a day of sightseeing.
Hours: Mon–Fri 6am–8pm, Sat–Sun 7am–6pm
Address: Burns Street, Hawera
Live racing right next door
2 min walkEgmont Racing Club
The Furlong's nearest neighbour — and the reason for our name. The Egmont Racing Club holds thoroughbred and harness meetings throughout the year, with the track visible from the motel. Race day is the perfect excuse to extend your stay.
Hours: Race days year-round — check club website for schedule
Address: Waihi Road, Hawera (adjoining The Furlong)
One of New Zealand's most iconic peaks
45 min driveMt Taranaki / Egmont National Park
The near-perfectly symmetrical cone of Mt Taranaki dominates the skyline from Hawera on a clear day. The mountain sits within Egmont National Park and offers everything from short bush walks and waterfall tracks to a demanding summit climb for experienced alpinists.
Hours: Park open year-round — visitor centres seasonal
Address: Egmont National Park (multiple entrances)
Attraction #5
Mt Taranaki / Egmont National Park
45 min drive from The Furlong Motel
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Everything South Taranaki has to offer — all within easy reach of The Furlong.