Nearly all the streets in the settlement of Stratford are named after Shakespearean characters. It’s pretty easy to guess why – Stratford-in-Taranaki was named to honour Shakespeare’s birthplace, Stratford-upon-Avon. If you’re planning to venture into the Egmont National Park, this town is a handy accommodation base or supply stop. It’s also the last fuelling point before the Forgotten World Highway – a wild 150 kilometre journey (with no service stations) that ends at Taumarunui. Admire the glockenspiel in the town centre - it’s one of a kind in New Zealand. The local pioneer village delivers an interesting history lesson. Functional facts: Approx. population 9800, i-SITE Visitor Centre, wide range of shops, restaurants and services.
Visitor Information Centre
in Stratford
Stratford is the closest town to Egmont National Park, tramps, beautiful parks and gardens, Pioneer Village. NZ's only Glockenspiel. Take a journey back in time through the Forgotten World Highway.