Te Rewa Rewa Bridge

Great walk and bike ride. We stayed the night freedom camping. Lovely to wake up to ducks on the lake. Unfortunately the mountain wasn't playing ball, next time

Good amount of parking, there are rubbish bins in the parking area. You can swim in the lake or do the coastal walk where this iconic bridge(Te Rewa Rewa bridge) in New Plymouth is where you can also capture another iconic feature of Taranaki(Mt Taranaki/Egmont in the background of the bridges structure on a cloud free day.

If you're looking for an easy walk take the Coastal Walkway to Te Rewa Rewa Bridge. Beautiful views and on a good day the mountain may come out to play.

The Te Rewa Rewa Bridge in New Plymouth, New Zealand, is an overwhelmingly positive experience for visitors and locals alike. Here's a review summarising its key aspects: Overall Impression: The Te Rewa Rewa Bridge is a truly iconic landmark in New Plymouth. Its distinctive architectural design, often likened to a breaking wave or whale bones, makes it a visually stunning structure. More than just a bridge, it's an integral part of the renowned Coastal Walkway and offers fantastic scenic views, particularly of Mount Taranaki on a clear day. Key Highlights: * Architectural Marvel: The bridge's unique and elegant design is consistently praised. It's considered a masterpiece of engineering that blends seamlessly with the natural environment. * Mount Taranaki Views: One of the most sought-after experiences is capturing a photo of Mount Taranaki framed perfectly by the bridge's arches. This "money shot" is a significant draw, though clouds can sometimes obscure the mountain. * Coastal Walkway Integration: The bridge is a central point of the Coastal Walkway, a 13.2km shared path ideal for walking, cycling, running, and even e-scootering. This makes it easily accessible and part of a larger scenic experience. * Scenic Surroundings: Beyond the bridge itself, the area offers beautiful coastal views, nearby parks for picnicking, and opportunities for birdwatching. * Cultural Significance: The bridge holds cultural importance, leading to sacred land of the Te Ati Awa iwi and Ngati Tawhirikura hapu, and its design was intended to "touch lightly" on the landscape out of respect for those buried there. * Accessibility: The walkway and bridge are generally flat and easy to navigate, making it suitable for all ages and abilities. * Awards: The bridge has received numerous national and international awards for its design and engineering, cementing its status as a remarkable achievement. Things to Consider: * Mount Taranaki Visibility: While the framed view of Mount Taranaki is a highlight, it's subject to weather conditions. Clouds often obscure the mountain, so it's worth checking the forecast if this is your primary objective. * Shared Path Etiquette: The Coastal Walkway is popular with cyclists, and while most are courteous, some users have reported issues with bikes not giving way or being too close, especially for those with hearing difficulties. Bells on bikes are appreciated. * Maintenance Work: Occasionally, maintenance work (like repainting, which was completed in late 2023) might involve scaffolding, temporarily impacting the perfect photo opportunities. * Wind: The exposed coastal location can be windy, so it's advisable to check weather conditions and dress appropriately. Tips for Visitors: * Best Photo Times: Visit at sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting for photographs. * Bring a Zoom Lens: For the iconic framed shot of Mount Taranaki, a zoom lens (e.g., 70-200mm) is recommended to compress the mountain in the center of the bridge. * Comfortable Shoes: If you plan to explore the Coastal Walkway, comfortable walking shoes are a must. * Consider a Picnic: Nearby parks offer a serene setting for a leisurely afternoon. In conclusion, the Te Rewa Rewa Bridge is a must-visit attraction in New Plymouth. Its architectural beauty, stunning views, and integration into the fantastic Coastal Walkway make it a memorable and highly recommended experience for anyone exploring the Taranaki region.

First visit view through to of Mt Taranaki was covered in cloud. Went back next morning to a clear top and steak of cloud across the middle of it. Regardless its beautiful