Dating in New Plymouth: Best Free Sites & Apps

Dating in New Plymouth

New Plymouth, on the west coast of the North Island, is the main city of Taranaki. Its skyline is dominated by Taranaki Maunga, the volcano that gives the region its name, and its coastline is popular with surfers. The city is known for its quality of life, its arts scene and its parks, and many people move here for work in the energy sector, dairy farming, engineering or health.

The dating pool is modest, and the population includes many families and outdoor enthusiasts. Engineers and specialists on contracts in the oil and gas sector add a transient element. Many locals meet through sport, surf and community events, but online dating is a practical way to widen your circle, especially if you are new to the region.

Choosing a platform

All the services in our New Zealand ranking work in English:

• eDarling, for a long-term relationship, with a personality test.
• Academic Singles, for engineers and other professionals.
• 40sDating for singles in their 40s.
• 50sDating, our top-rated NZ site, and Singles 50 for over-50s.
• 60sDating for over-60s.

These are free to join and to view suggestions, with messaging on a paid plan. Tinder, Hinge and Bumble have free chat with matches; including Inglewood, Waitara and Stratford in your radius helps.

The walkway, the park and the mountain

The Coastal Walkway runs along the waterfront for kilometres and is the city’s favourite place for a walk or bike ride. The Te Rewa Rewa Bridge, which frames the mountain in its arch, is a popular spot. The Len Lye Centre and Govett-Brewster Art Gallery are a good indoor option.

Pukekura Park, close to the centre, has lakes, gardens and walking paths, and its summer Festival of Lights is a long-standing local tradition. Cafés and bars in the city centre and along the waterfront are good for a drink. For outdoor lovers, Egmont National Park offers tracks on the slopes of Taranaki Maunga, and Surf Highway 45 runs past some of the region’s best surf breaks.

Surf clubs, tramping groups, running and cycling clubs, and social sport are popular. The energy sector also has active social networks for new arrivals.

Safety tips

Meet in a public place for the first date, tell a friend your plans and arrange your own transport. Never send money to someone you met online, and contact Netsafe if something feels wrong.

Which site fits you in New Plymouth?

All services work in English. In New Plymouth, your age and whether you are here for good should guide your choice.

Petroleum engineer, 34, on a contract from Aberdeen

Academic Singles connects you with other professionals. Free tip: a walk along the Coastal Walkway to the Te Rewa Rewa Bridge is a great first date.

Surf-loving nurse, 29, in Oakura

Hinge and Bumble have free chat with matches. Free tip: suggest a coffee in Oakura after a morning surf.

Farmer, 46, near Inglewood

40sDating keeps you among people at a similar stage. Free tip: meet in town for a walk in Pukekura Park.

Retired school principal, 64, in Fitzroy

60sDating is made for singles over 60. Free tip: the Len Lye Centre is a good conversation starter for a first meeting.

Dating in New Plymouth: FAQ

Is New Plymouth good for dating?

It is a friendly, outdoorsy city with a modest pool. Combining an age-based site with a free app works best.

What is the best dating site in New Plymouth?

eDarling suits a serious relationship, and 50sDating is our top pick for over-50s.

Which dating apps are free in New Plymouth?

Tinder, Hinge and Bumble all let you chat with matches for free.

Where should I go on a first date in New Plymouth?

The Coastal Walkway, Pukekura Park, the Len Lye Centre or a café by the waterfront.