Between the glorious vineyards and farms of sheep decorating the North Island’s green land, Lepperton is a quaint village with a close-knit communal atmosphere. In the heart of the town are a café and a general store. Stay at a charming bed-and-breakfast and go on pleasant hikes around the leafy area.
Consider the rich history of the village, which was set up as a military settlement in the 1860s. It took its name from Lieutenant Colonel Maxwell Lepper, who owned land here for four years before his death. His descendants continue to farm in the village. Walk to the Bell Block area for its wide range of shops, parks and other amenities.
Visit St. Mark’s Anglican Church and admire its charming red gabled roof. Enjoy the tranquility inside the church, which is thought to have opened at the beginning of the 20th century.
Among the highlights in the region around Lepperton is the Manutahi Museum, a fascinating taxidermy museum. Take a guided tour with the owner of the exhibit to see stuffed animals, which include a polar bear, wallabies and a rhino. Pick up fresh milk from nearby Dolly’s Milk Farm and purchase a few bottles of wine at one of the vineyard estates, such as the Sur Le Mur Winery.
Along the northern section of the promontory jutting out from the western part of the North Island, Lepperton is in the heart of the North Taranaki district. Drive east from New Plymouth for 9 miles (15 kilometers) to get here in 15 minutes. Travel through the area by bus or car to discover other landmarks such as the Te Rewa Rewa Bridge, the New Plymouth Golf Club and the Waitara River.
Attend Lepperton’s annual lawnmower races in March to get a sense of the community’s quirkiness.
