Huatoki Plaza - Image 1
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Huatoki Plaza

4.2
·55 reviews·New Plymouth, New Zealand

A bustling central plaza in New Plymouth, known for its vibrant farmers market, community events, and public art.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunday mornings

Farmers Market buzz

CrowdMedium
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Huatoki Plaza - Image 1

Huatoki Plaza

Best Time

Sunday mornings

Farmers Market buzz

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A bustling central plaza in New Plymouth, known for its vibrant farmers market, community events, and public art.

4.2
(55 reviews)

"The Taranaki Farmers Market is a major draw, offering fresh local produce and a lively community atmosphere."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Sunday Market Perks

Bring your own container to the Farmers Market for a free extra serving!

🚶‍♀️ Stay Aware

Some reviews mention aggressive homeless individuals; be mindful of your surroundings.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Taranaki Farmers Market

Taranaki Farmers Market

Huatoki Plaza

Fresh local produce, artisanal goods, and a lively community atmosphere every Sunday morning.

Public Art Installations

Public Art Installations

Entrances and throughout the plaza

Discover unique artworks that add character and visual interest to the plaza's public spaces.

Community Events

Community Events

Huatoki Plaza

From protests to festivals and markets, the plaza is a frequent venue for local gatherings and celebrations.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Huatoki Plaza

Huatoki Plaza is a central hub in New Plymouth, often hosting markets and events. Be aware of potential crowds during these times. While it offers shopping and dining, some reviews mention concerns about aggressive homeless individuals in the area, so staying aware of your surroundings is advised.

Best Times for a Visit

For a vibrant atmosphere, aim for Sunday mornings for the Taranaki Farmers Market.Instagram If you're interested in specific events like Americarna or festivals, check local listings. Weekday afternoons might offer a quieter experience for general browsing.

Best Times

When
Sunday mornings
Why
Farmers Market buzz
Crowd
Medium
When
Event days
Why
Festivals & markets
Crowd
High
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quieter browsing
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Mount Taranaki 🏔️ New bridge discovered‼️ Did you know this newest suspension bridge in New Plymouth opened in May? It’s only a 20mins easy walk to reach the 100m bridge with Mount Taranaki just right in front of you 🏔️ 👟 20mins easy walk 🧑‍🧑‍🧒 family friendly track 🅿️ huge car park with toilet 🌄 scenery viewing platform at car park Tag or share to your outdoorsy friends to enjoy this new destinat...
@jomi.travelkaki
2.1K likes • 72.5K views

🎯 Sunday Market Perks

Bring your own container to the Farmers Market for a free extra serving! Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Stay Aware

Some reviews mention aggressive homeless individuals; be mindful of your surroundings. Reddit

Taranaki Farmers Market today till 12noon. Huatoki Plaza
groweasynp
14 likes • 6 views
See you at the market! Every Sunday at the Huatoki Plaza from 9am-12noon 🥕 #farmersmarket #farmtotable #locallygrown #locallymade #supportsmallbusiness
farmers_market_taranaki
13 likes • 276 views

🚗 Parking Availability

Ample parking is available both inside and outside the plaza, including upper levels. Reddit

🎨 Artful Entrances

Look out for the nice artwork at each entrance, adding a touch of creativity. Reddit

Tomorrow we have a protest in New Plymouth starting at 11am at the Huatoki plaza for Iran. You have probably heard about what is going on inside of Iran and what is happening to the people. However this is a matter that won't be kept quiet no more. Join us to stand up for what is right. Help us to bring freedom back to Iran. #mahsaamini #Iran #protest #freedom #free-range
pantea.art
90 likes • 769 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Sunday Market Perks

Bring your own container to the Farmers Market for a free extra serving! Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Stay Aware

Some reviews mention aggressive homeless individuals; be mindful of your surroundings. Reddit

🚗 Parking Availability

Ample parking is available both inside and outside the plaza, including upper levels. Reddit

🎨 Artful Entrances

Look out for the nice artwork at each entrance, adding a touch of creativity. Reddit

🦆 Beware of Pigeons

Pigeons and ducks can be numerous; watch out for droppings on seats. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.2
(55 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Huatoki Plaza is a central New Plymouth hub known for its vibrant Sunday farmers market and as a venue for community events. While some reviews highlight its convenience and the appeal of its markets and art, others express concerns about aggressive homeless individuals and the plaza's overall atmosphere, noting changes in its retail offerings over time.

"Definitely doesn't look anything like the photo of this place. Many aggressive homeless people in this area and across the road. Wouldn't recommend letting children or young teens anywhere near this area, the homeless people are very loud and angry, drinking and doing drugs, relieving themselves in view of the public. Sleeping bags, mattresses and lots of homeless people's possessions strewn everywhere. Not a friendly or safe part of the CBD."

Mel

"The lagest Plaza in Newplymouth City , so it's a must for most of your "shopping needs", and has a large carpatk inside and out, going up to the top level 5, , and a great view of our coastal side, and pleasant to be higher than 1 or 2 floors ...,yaaahhhhh Newplymouth, your doing well with this Plaza , which even has a food court to eat foods around some of the world, at cheap prices 👍🫵. Sad they no longer have a MacDonald'food court here 😢 no more! And pac-sav shopping is a no-more either 😢 lol ✍️, so its not one of those "get all your shopping needs here in one Plaza", like it was for a few great years. So it's no longer like other larger plaza's, in Auckland City, Mt Albert, New Lyn,
North Shore City, Manako City, Henderson City, Wellington City, Christchurch City, and a few more smaller city's scattered throughout "The Most Beautiful Country proudly called 'New Zealand' 🇳🇿". I WOULD give this place 5/5, BUT TAKE OFF 1 POINT FOR "NOT ALL YOUR SHOPPING NEEDS IN ONE PLAZA", AND 1 MORE POINT FOR "NO MAC-DONALDS FOOD COURT" 😥. PLUS I FIND THE SECUITY GUARDS REALLY OVER THE TOP; (NOT PROFESSIONAL) I SAW ONE HUGE SECURITY OFFICER CHASSING A "ALLEGED SHOP LIFTER" IN A SHOP, WITHIN PLAZA, AND (like he was taking a shot at a tackiling move which i have only seen in a Rugby-Game lol 🙃), HE BROUGHT HER TO THE GROUND WITH A THUMP, & A SMASHING SOUND OF A SHELVE OF ITEMS FOR SALE, BEING KNOCKED OVER BY THE POOR LADY BEFORE SHE EVEN LEFT THIS SHOP WITHIN THE PLAZA 🤔🫣🤐; ACCUSED OF WHAT?? IN MY LAW KNOWLEGE, IT'S CALLED "COMMON ASSULT", ON THE SECURITY GUARD, WHO NEVER EVEN BOTHERED TO SEE THAT THIS SLIGHTY RUDE LADY LOL 😆 WAS PREGNANT 🤰🤔😵 BY 5 MONTHS 🤫🤔🤨🙄😮😖😠.....; (I SAY SHAME, SHAME, SHAME, OF THE SECURITY TEAM THAT ARE EMPLOYED TO KEEP THE LAWS OF NEW ZEALAND 🇳🇿, AND ALSO PART BLAME OF THE MALL'S SITE MANAGER; WHOM LAST TIME I MEET, WAS QUITE A RUDE, JUDGEMENTAL LADY,IN HERS 50's.); IN MY PERSONAL DEALINGS WITH THIS SITE MANAGER, OVER A MISUNDERSTANDING ON A MORAL ISSUE, WITHIN A "2DEGREES" SHOP, IN PLAZA, (whom have moved to Devon St); IN MY HUMBLE OPINION, I THINK SHE SHOULD BE FIRED AS SITE MANAGER LOL, but that's another story. 😉 🤔 😜, ANYWAY, IF YOU DONT DRESS LIKE A DOWN ON YOUR LUCK PERSON OR COME ACROSS AS NERVIOUS, ANNOYED,OR A SLIGHTLY UPSET SHOPPER, YOU SHOULD REALLY ENJOY SHOPPING HERE AT THE LARGEST PLAZA IN NEWPLYMOUTH CITY, WHICH OUT DID ITS SELF IN THE NEW YEARS EVE CELEBRATION FOR THE NEW YEAR 2000 COMING IN 🍾 😉 😄 🎄🎆🎇🧨✨️🎈🎉🎊🎀🎁🎫🎟🎗🎑 , AND I MUST SAY , QUITE A FEW OF US OUT-STANDING CITIZENS ENJOYED, AS WE WENT FROM CLUB TO BAR, TO CLUB TO THE EARLY HOURS OF SUNDAY 01/01/2000, ONE OF GREAT MEMORYS, LAUGHS AND GOOD DECENT FUN 😁 😂 😀 😊 😄 💙!!! ( CANDYBOY) OXO."

Johnathan Spence (CANDY BOY)

"The council's doing what can to make this an attractive place to rest and refresh in. That's obvious. Nice art work at each entrance. Plenty of space. You could enjoy a lunch here on a warm sunny day."

Len McGrane

What People Like

Vibrant farmers market
Central location
Public art

What People Dislike

Concerns about homeless
Changing retail mix
Animal droppings

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Huatoki Plaza is centrally located in New Plymouth's CBD. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available both inside and on the upper levels.Reddit Public transport options may also be available depending on your starting point within the city.

Yes, Huatoki Plaza offers a large car park both inside and outside, with access to the top level (level 5).Reddit This makes it convenient for visitors arriving by car.

If you are in the New Plymouth CBD, Huatoki Plaza is likely within walking distance. It's a central location for exploring the city on foot.

From New Plymouth Airport, you would typically take a taxi or rideshare service to Huatoki Plaza, as public transport links might be limited. The drive is relatively short.

While specific bus routes can vary, the plaza's central location means it's likely served by local bus routes operating within New Plymouth. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Huatoki Plaza is a public space and generally does not require tickets for entry. However, specific events held within the plaza may have their own admission fees or ticketing requirements.

As a public plaza, Huatoki Plaza is generally accessible at all times. Individual shops and businesses within the plaza will have their own operating hours.

No, the Taranaki Farmers Market held at Huatoki Plaza is free to enter. You only pay for the goods you wish to purchase from the vendors.Instagram

While the plaza is open to the public, some reviews mention concerns about aggressive homeless individuals in the area, which might affect the perceived safety and atmosphere for some visitors.Reddit It's advisable to be aware of your surroundings.

Information on booking event spaces at Huatoki Plaza would typically be managed by the local council or a designated events team. It's best to inquire directly with New Plymouth District Council.

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

Huatoki Plaza has historically housed a variety of shops, including clothing stores and other retail outlets. While some past tenants like Pac 'n Save and McDonald's are no longer there,Reddit it remains a significant shopping destination in New Plymouth.

Huatoki Plaza used to have a food court with diverse options,Reddit but its current offerings may have changed. It's worth checking on-site for the most up-to-date dining facilities.

At the Taranaki Farmers Market, you can find fresh Taranaki vegetables, locally grown produce, artisanal goods, and other farm-to-table products.Instagram+1

While specific dining establishments can change, the plaza is designed to offer various amenities. You might find cafes or eateries within or around the plaza area.

Yes, you can bring your own food to enjoy in Huatoki Plaza. It's a public space, and there are areas where you can sit and eat, though you might want to be mindful of the pigeons and ducks.Reddit

📸 📸 Photography & Sights

The public art installations at the entrances offer unique photographic opportunities.Reddit The plaza itself can be scenic, especially during events or markets like the Taranaki Farmers Market.Instagram

Huatoki Plaza can be a good spot for photography, particularly if you're interested in capturing local life, market scenes, or public art. The surrounding architecture and any events happening can also provide interesting subjects.

From the higher levels of the plaza's car park, you can get a great view of New Plymouth's coastal side.Reddit The plaza itself offers views of the surrounding city and any ongoing activities.

While Huatoki Plaza is an urban space, the river running through it has eels that people enjoy feeding.Reddit You might also find the coastal views from the higher car park levels appealing.

Events like the Americarna festivities,Instagram the Winter Festival of Lights,Instagram and the Taranaki Farmers Market Instagram offer vibrant scenes and opportunities for great photos.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Huatoki Plaza can be a good spot for families, especially on Sunday mornings for the Taranaki Farmers Market.Instagram It's a chance for kids to see and taste fresh local produce. While there aren't specific play areas, the open space allows for some freedom of movement. Be mindful of the pigeons and ducks, as they can be quite numerous and may approach for food.Reddit

Some reviews mention concerns about the general atmosphere due to aggressive homeless individuals in the area.Reddit Parents should remain vigilant and keep a close eye on children, especially if visiting during quieter times or outside of organized events. The plaza's central location means it's easy to access, and there are parking facilities available.Reddit

🛍️ Shoppers & Foodies

For shoppers, Huatoki Plaza offers a range of retail opportunities, though its offerings have evolved over time.Reddit The Taranaki Farmers Market is a must-visit for foodies, providing a direct connection to local producers and delicious goods.Instagram+1 Don't forget to bring your own container for a special market perk!Instagram

While the dedicated food court may have changed, the plaza and its surroundings likely offer various dining options. Exploring the market stalls for snacks or seeking out nearby cafes and eateries will satisfy culinary interests. The plaza's accessibility and parking make it a convenient destination for a shopping and dining excursion.

📅 Event Enthusiasts

Huatoki Plaza is a dynamic venue for a variety of events. Keep an eye out for the Taranaki Farmers Market every Sunday,Instagram the vibrant Americarna festivities,Instagram and the magical Winter Festival of Lights.Instagram These events transform the plaza into a lively spectacle, offering unique experiences and photo opportunities.

It's also a space for community gatherings and demonstrations.Instagram Checking local event listings for New Plymouth will provide the most up-to-date information on what's happening at Huatoki Plaza, ensuring you don't miss out on any exciting happenings.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heart of New Plymouth: Huatoki Plaza's Role

Huatoki Plaza serves as a significant public space and commercial hub in New Plymouth. It's known for its role in hosting various community events, from vibrant farmers markets to cultural protests and festive celebrations.Instagram+2 The plaza's central location makes it a natural gathering point for locals and visitors alike.

Historically, the plaza has been a key shopping destination, with a large car park facilitating access.Reddit While some long-standing businesses have moved or closed, it continues to be a place where people can shop, dine, and experience the pulse of the city. The presence of public art at its entrances adds an aesthetic dimension, making it more than just a commercial center.Reddit

However, it's important for visitors to be aware of the mixed reviews regarding the plaza's atmosphere. Some patrons have reported concerns about aggressive homeless individuals and the general upkeep of certain areas.Reddit Despite these challenges, the council is making efforts to enhance its appeal, evident in the artwork and the promotion of events like the Sunday farmers market.InstagramReddit

Experiencing Huatoki Plaza: Markets, Art, and Community

The Taranaki Farmers Market, held every Sunday morning, is a major draw for Huatoki Plaza.Instagram Visitors can expect a delightful array of fresh, locally grown produce, artisanal foods, and handcrafted items.Instagram A unique incentive offered at the market is a free extra serving when you bring your own reusable container, encouraging sustainability.Instagram This market transforms the plaza into a bustling hub of community activity and a fantastic spot for foodies and those seeking local flavors.

Beyond the market, Huatoki Plaza is adorned with public art installations, particularly at its entrances, which contribute to its visual appeal and offer interesting subjects for photography.Reddit The plaza has also been a venue for significant community events, including protests for social causes Instagram and lively festivals like the Winter Festival of Lights Instagram and Americarna.Instagram These events showcase the plaza's versatility as a space for both commerce and cultural expression.

While the plaza offers a dynamic experience, it's worth noting that some visitors have expressed concerns about the presence of homeless individuals and the associated atmosphere in certain reviews.Reddit Despite this, the plaza remains a central point for shopping, dining, and community engagement in New Plymouth, with efforts made to enhance its attractiveness and functionality.

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