The Taranaki region lies on the west coast of the North Island of New Zealand with a land area of 723,610 hectares (3% of New Zealand's area) and a population of 104,124 people (2006 Census).
Three districts make up the Taranaki region: New Plymouth District (population 68,901), Stratford District (8,892) and South Taranaki District (26,484). The two main population centres are New Plymouth and Hawera. The general trend has been a decrease in the population of smaller rural towns and a further concentration of the population in north Taranaki.
The region relies on its natural and physical resources for its social and economic well-being. Almost 1900 dairy farms are concentrated on the ring plain and produce around 14% of New Zealand's total milk solids. Sheep and beef farming is largely confined to the hill country along with exotic forest plantations and indigenous forest cover. Oil and gas reserves, and the associated processing, distribution and export of hydrocarbons also contribute to the regional economy.
Aerial photographs
The Taranaki Regional Council has colour aerial photographs of the whole region for its own use. They are available for non-commercial use where required conditions are met. For more information, click on the link below to download a pamphlet and order form. To order photographs, fill in the form and post it to the Council with your payment.