New Farm

New Farm is a quiet, leafy suburb on the northern bank of the Hastings River, just a few minutes' drive from Port Macquarie's town centre. It offers a peaceful escape with riverfront parks, heritage architecture, and a back-to-nature feel that appeals to travellers seeking slower-paced coastal living. The area's mix of historic cottages, modern riverfront homes, and bushland reserves makes it a rewarding detour for anyone exploring the Port Macquarie region.

Highlights & What to See

• Hastings River Foreshore Reserve – Stroll or cycle along the scenic riverside paths, with picnic tables, playgrounds, and excellent spots for birdwatching or watching boats glide by.
• New Farm Heritage Walk – A self-guided walk past beautifully preserved late-19th-century timber cottages and historic farm buildings, offering a glimpse into the area's agricultural past.
• Kooloonbung Creek Nature Park – A hidden gem of wetlands and walking trails just across the river, home to abundant birdlife and a peaceful boardwalk through paperbark swamps.
• Port Macquarie Go-Kart Track – For a dose of family-friendly adrenaline, this track on the outskirts of New Farm offers karts for all ages.
• Local Produce & Farmers Markets – On Saturday mornings, the nearby Port Macquarie Farmers Market showcases fresh local fruit, artisan bread, and handmade cheeses – perfect for a riverside picnic.

Suggested Time to Spend

New Farm is best enjoyed as a half-day escape from central Port Macquarie. Spend a couple of hours exploring the riverfront and heritage walk, then linger over a picnic or a coffee at a local café. If you're keen on nature, combine it with a visit to Kooloonbung Creek for a full morning or afternoon. Most travellers find two to three hours sufficient to soak up the suburb's charm without rushing.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Macquarie Town Centre – Just a five-minute drive away, with its vibrant marina, boutiques, and the iconic Breakwall.
• Lighthouse Beach – A stunning surf beach at the southern end of town, ideal for a swim or coastal walk.
• Billabong Zoo – A wildlife park focused on Australian native animals, including koalas and crocodiles, located a short drive west.
• Sea Acres Rainforest Centre – A protected pocket of subtropical rainforest with a raised boardwalk, just north of Port Macquarie.
• Cowarra State Forest – For bushwalking and mountain biking, this forest offers trails through tall eucalypt forests.

Please check official sources for current details.