2026 Sustainable Trails: Launch, New App, New Properties & More Ways to Explore
The wait is over! Taranaki Sustainable Trails 2026 officially launches on Saturday 1 August, with the printed programme and a brand-new mobile app making it easier than ever to plan a sustainable adventure across the region.
“We’re super excited for people to explore our new app. It’s been a labour of love to develop, and we welcome feedback on usability, as well as ideas for the future!”
Jen Hammonds, Trails Co-coordinator
Running from 30 October to 15 November 2026, Taranaki Sustainable Trails is a region-wide celebration of local sustainability, bringing together educators and innovators to share practical ideas for creating more resilient homes, gardens and farms.
Since launching as Sustainable Backyards in 2015, the event holds the title of longest-running event of its kind in Aotearoa, and is one of Taranaki's signature sustainability events. In 2024, it expanded beyond backyards to include farms and builds, evolving into Taranaki Sustainable Trails to reflect the wider range of experiences now available.
This year's line-up features 34 inspiring properties, and more than 30 events including top local and national workshop facilitators. Returning visitors will find 15 new properties across the three trails, providing visitors with fresh opportunities to discover practical ideas for DIY, innovation in material use and technology, as well as inspiration for weaving sustainability into growing, building, and farming.
Explore the new App here.
A major new feature for 2026 is the Taranaki SustainableTrails web app, available for download on www.sustainabletrails.org.nz. Designed to make planning easier than ever, the app allows visitors to browse and filter properties and events, save favourites, create a personalised itinerary, and connect directly to Google Maps for seamless navigation. Whether you’re planning your journey from your desktop or using the app on your mobile device while out exploring, it’s a game changer for discovering what’s on, where and when.
To help visitors find experiences that match their interests, the Sustainable Trails web app allows you to browse and search by themed categories. Whether you're a seasoned grower or just starting your sustainability journey, there's something for everyone in this year's programme.
Both the printed programme and the web app highlight accessibility features, making it easy for visitors to find properties suitable for families, those with limited mobility, or people wishing to bring their dogs (on leash). Several of the feature events also offer flexible pricing for those with financial constraints, alongside a wide range of low-cost talks and workshops. Designed to be educational, affordable and accessible, Taranaki Sustainable Trails welcomes people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds.
Taranaki Sustainable Backyards, Builds & Farms.
Discover practical ideas for growing vegetables and fruit, building healthy soil, and using herbs and medicinal plants, or creating healthier gardens, farms, and homes through natural solutions. Learn how chooks and other animals can contribute to productivity, discover the wisdom of mōhio Māori (traditional Māori knowledge), and experience the power of community through shared gardens and local initiatives. You'll also find events focused on sustainable building and energy efficiency, plenty of hands-on workshops, and a range of unique experiences that celebrate the diversity of sustainable lifestyles across Taranaki.
“The host's passion was contagious and is still with me when I walk around my own garden full of ideas and vision!” Susan Andell, Sustainable Trails visitor
More than 30 events including top local and national facilitators.
Pick up a booklet
Printed programmes and event tickets will be available from Saturday 1 August at the following locations:
EnviroHub, 28 Brooklands Park Drive, Brooklands, New Plymouth (open 9.30am–2.30pm Tues, Wed, Thurs)
Ngāmotu New Plymouth i-SITE, 1 Ariki Street, New Plymouth (open 10am–5pm daily)
Whakaahurangi Stratford i-SITE, 54 Miranda Street, Stratford (Monday–Friday 8.30am–5pm; Saturday 9am–1pm)
South Taranaki i-SITE, 121 High Street, Hāwera (Monday–Friday 8.30am–5pm; Saturday–Sunday 10am–3pm)
Additional outlets across Taranaki will begin stocking programmes over the following weeks. Visit the website for locations.
The new Trails app will go live on Saturday 1 August, featuring the full range of properties and events.
To find or download the app, or for general Taranaki Sustainable Trails information, visit www.sustainabletrails.org.nz
