Otatara pa
Is the largest pa you can visit in new zealand. the views from this site are outstanding. you can see napier, across to cape kidnappers and out to the sea. it is possible on a clear day to see ruapehu in the centre of the north island. itâs no wonder that otatara was the most prized pa in hawkeâs bay and its ownership was so strongly contested. otatara pa is situated close to taradale and is signposted clearly. look out for the palisades on the hill above the eastern institute of technology.
Taradale also has several large parks and reserves, Taradale Park and Centennial Park, Anderson Park, Dobel Reserve, Tareha Recreational Reserve.
Sugar Loaf Reserve
The 127m hill known as sugar loaf or pukekura dominates the skyline of the western hills above taradale and its distinctive shape can be seen from all over taradale and parts of napier. eastern views from the summit cover the napier-taradale area and much of the heretaunga plains, while western views include the ruahine and kaweka ranges. the track to the summit is steep especially from the cumberland rise entrance. the walk is graded moderate to difficult. care should be taken in wet conditions.