Stratford (New Zealand)

Stratford is in New Zealand. Sitting on the banks of the Patea River, Stratford enjoys impressive views of Mount Taranaki/Egmont. The mountain provides a year-round source of recreation, with skiing, hiking, climbing and scenic walks. Trout fishing is popular at the region's rivers and streams, and the town boasts several fine gardens, including Te Popo. South of Stratford, the Taranaki Pioneer Village houses a collection of historic buildings. The Stratford-Taumaranui Heritage Trail also takes in historic sites - a booklet about the trail is available at the visitor centre. Get in By car Hire a car in New Plymouth or bring a campervan By bus By train Get around Stratford is small enough to walk around. There is no real bus system or taxis. See All of the streets have Shakespearean names. Romeo St. and Juliet St. don't intersect for some reason. There is an art gallery next to the I-Site. New Zealand's only glockenspiel is in Stratford. Whangamomona Republic. New Zealand's "other nation." 50 km or so down Route 43. In January of every other year (2007, 2009, 2011...) the population swells to about 5,000 to celebratre its independence. Has a border guard (an outdoor toilet), a president, and its own beer. Get your passport stamped at the hotel.  edit Do Buy Chocolates at the sweet shop are in the shape of Taranaki, the Glockenspiel, kiwi, etc. Eat There is a good bakery and a small ethnic shop selling cheap groceries. New World supermarket is the town's only big supermarket, selling a large range of groceries. There is an Italian restaurant serving excellent pizza, located on the main street Drink Sleep Contact There is free internet at the library. Expect a wait and a 30 minute time limit Get out Head south to Hawera or west to New Plymouth. The Forgotten World Highway (Route 43) to Taumarunui is one of New Zealand's most underrated drives. This article is an outline and needs more content. It has a template, but there is not enough information present. Please plunge forward and help it grow!