2025 Tongaporutu Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

📍 Location Elephant Rock is located on the Tongaporutu coastline in the Taranaki region of New Zealand's North Island, right next to the Three Sisters. This natural wonder on the same beach is named for its striking resemblance to an elephant, making it a captivating sight. ⸻ 🚗 How to Get There From New Plymouth, drive north on SH3 for about an hour. As you approach Tongaporutu, turn onto the coastal road and follow signs for "Three Sisters Lookout" or "Tongaporutu River." Walk down to the beach to find it. ⚠️ Be sure to check the tide schedule, as the beach area is only accessible during low tide! ⸻ 📝 Personal Experience This place feels truly magical to me. Elephant Rock stands quietly by the waves, resembling a stone elephant about to step into the sea. Although its "trunk" was damaged by erosion in 2016, the overall silhouette still unmistakably resembles an elephant. Walking on the beach exposed by low tide, surrounded by sea caves and massive rock formations, every step feels like an adventure. The air carries a salty tang, and the sound of wind and waves fills your ears. As I approached Elephant Rock, I was struck by how small humans are in comparison. Since there are few tourists and no commercial facilities here, the natural scenery tells its own story, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the view. ⸻ This is a destination for those who prefer "off-the-beaten-path" spots. It's not bustling or noisy, but it's unique and awe-inspiring. If you love coastal landscapes and geological wonders, this stone elephant is definitely worth seeing in person.

📍 Location Located on the Tongaporutu coast in the northern part of Taranaki, North Island, New Zealand, about an hour's drive from New Plymouth. It's a dream destination for capturing the coexistence of volcanic landscapes and unique rock formations. ⸻ 🚗 How to Get There Drive north from New Plymouth along SH3 for about 70 kilometers. Near Tongaporutu, turn onto a coastal road to reach the site. Look for signs such as "Three Sisters Lookout" or Tongaporutu River. It's recommended to check the tide schedule before visiting. ⸻ 📝 Personal Experience The first time I saw this place, only one word came to mind: wow. The Three Sisters are towering rock pillars standing on the beach, beautifully complemented by Mt. Taranaki in the background. Although only two "sisters" remain intact today, the desolate yet majestic scenery is still breathtaking. What truly captivated me was the entire coastline. During low tide, you can walk onto the beach to see the rock pillars, sea caves, and folded cliff walls up close. Especially at sunset, the sky turns a golden orange, waves roll at your feet, and the moment feels surreal. The beach may be slippery, but the experience is grounding. Because of the need to monitor tides and the relatively few visitors, the area has a sense of exploration. It's not a typical tourist hotspot, but if you love the raw beauty of nature, this place will leave a lasting impression. ⸻ If you're visiting New Plymouth or Egmont National Park, I highly recommend detouring here to witness nature's true sculptures. Remember to bring a windproof jacket, sturdy shoes, and a spirit of adventure.

The beach is stunning with its unique black sand and the impressive rock formations of the 3 Sisters and Elephant Rock. The short walk from the car park is convenient, and visiting during low tide offers a chance to get closer to the rocks, adding a nice touch to the experience. That path is muddy and slippery. So wear appropriate shoes for it. Overall, it's a beautiful and memorable spot! #newzealandtrip

This place is also very funny. It used to be four rocks that stood still at the turn of the century. It was called the "four sister rock". As a result, the seawater was eroded and renamed "Three Sisters Rock". ". However, when you come here, you will find that there are only two on the scene. The third seat should also be eroded, and maybe you will not have a look at it, maybe there will be only one sister in the future. There are two ways to visit the Three Sisters Rocks. One of them is a distant view. Before reaching the Three Sisters Rock, turn into a road called Pilot Road, where you can overlook the three sisters from the height of the other side. Another way is to reach the parking lot of San Sister Rock according to the location of the navigation restrictions, and then walk on the delicate black sand beach with bare feet, it takes about 15 minutes, or you have a pair of waterproof shoes, here Don't be barefoot. This is the first time I saw a black sand beach. The black sand is like coal. The middle star sparkles with golden sand, which is particularly dazzling under the sun. When we went, it was at a low tide and we could walk under the Three Sisters. But after taking a few photos, I started to rise. Several big waves rushed over and scared me to run back. But to be honest, the reflection of the three sisters in the water was good when they were shot, so I got a little bit of tide and never rock. It is the most beautiful moment.