With its proximity to Mauao Volcano a.k.a. The Mount (a must-summit, ideally tackled in the early morning, chased by a strong coffee), Tauranga remains a popular destination for everything from a weekend escape to an indulgent longer vacay.
And with breathtaking beaches to stretch out on, waves to surf down, islands to explore, markets to fossick about in, and a bunch of great festivals, you’re going to want to stay as long as possible.
Here at Urban List, we’ve put in the mahi so you can get straight to the treats. Here are the best Airbnbs in and around Tauranga to book into, stat, including this darling accommodation that comes complete with pet farm animals.
Kaimai Views Escape
Tauranga | Sleeps 2
Image credit: Kaimai Views Escape | Airbnb
If you just can’t even with the big smoke, then Kaimai Views Escape is aptly named. It may be just ten minutes away from central Tauranga, but it sure doesn’t feel like it—the quietude might be exactly what you’re craving.
Enjoy waking up slowly then meander along to McLaren Falls, perhaps pausing a while to revel in the natural surroundings before returning home for a cheeky sundowner on the deck. You’ve got all the amenities at your disposal. Simply book in and kick back.
Relaxed Pod Living With Pet Farm Animals
Pāpāmoa Hills | Sleeps 3
Image credit: Relaxed Pod Living | Airbnb
For a getaway that involves melting away your stresses in a natural hot pool, scarpering up the Mount, and feeling the sand between your toes, this Relaxed Pod Living might be a bit of you. Spread among several pods—living, bathroom, and dining—you’re a short drive from two natural hot pools, a strawberry farm, mini-golf, Bayfair Mall, and beaches.
Better still, you get all this plus the company of a motley farm crew: two Jersey cows, sheep, goats, Flemish giant bunnies, chickens, and lambs. Precious.
Architecturally Designed Studio
Bethlehem, Tauranga | Sleeps 2
Image credit: Architecturally Designed Studio | Airbnb
Brimming with nature, literally—the bi-folding doors open up onto a gorgeous garden—this Architecturally Designed Studio, punctuated with loft living and a cascading lantern light-art piece is, hands down, one of the best Airbnbs in Tauranga. Foodies will especially relish a stay here as it’s owned by the folks behind Somerset Cottage, the neighbouring restaurant and cooking school.
By The Sea In Central Mount Maunganui
Tauranga | Sleeps 5
Image credit: By The Sea | Airbnb
Chances are, if you’re bound for Tauranga, you’re intending to rack up an impressive amount of hours beachside, in which case this stunning abode By The Sea is the place to be. Mere steps away from the sand, and summer-lovin’ cafes and shopping The Mount is known for.
‘lax out on their suntrap of a deck or take the complimentary push scooters for a spin. Hightail it to the ocean, surf up a storm, then finish up with a lowkey competitive game of table tennis while waiting for the BBQ to fire up.
Kayu Casa
Mount Maunganui | Sleeps 2
Image credit: Kayu Casa | Airbnb
A thoughtfully designed, earthen-toned sanctuary awaits you at Kayu Casa… and that’s just the bathroom. Somehow both luxe and minimalist, chances are you’ll feel any stress evaporate just looking at the photos.
If you happen to need to work while you travel (the struggle is real), a bookable meeting room space is available next door at The Kayu Studio. And you’ll have everything you need living-wise at Kayu. It’s a dreamy little spot you’re sure to fall in love with.
You might also like:
- 9 Of The Most Dog-Friendly Beaches Across Aotearoa
- Camping Grounds In And Around Tauranga
- Get Your Locks Chopped At The Finest Hairdressers In Tauranga
Tepid Pools Palms Paradise
Papamoa | Sleeps 10
Image credit: Tepid Pools Palms Paradise | Airbnb
Bring the whole crew to Papamoa and live it up at this Tepid Pools Palms Paradise. Five bedrooms ensure everyone is well taken care of, and the ping pong table in the garage makes a great setting for a ruthless ping pong tournament in the case of rain.
Then there’s the pool—a lovely sprawling number dotted with art deco loungers for soaking up that sun while enjoying a good book or digging into a delicious platter. With all the amenities and the beach nearby, book in here and consider your vacation sorted.
Paradise Beach Barn
Papamoa | Sleeps 6
Image credit: Paradise Beach Barn | Airbnb
You know that moment when you arrive at somebody’s ‘bach’ only to discover it’s far more plush than your home? Paradise Beach Barn Two (Beach Barn One can be booked concurrently for two extra guests) is that situation incarnate. Fully furnished with all the buzzwords—espresso machine, smart TV, speakers, BBQ—you’ll want for nothing except, perhaps, a little more holiday leave.
With your accom sorted, let’s build that itinerary. Check out:
- Everything You Need To Hit Next Time You’re In Tauranga
- Delicious Restaurants to Chow Down At In Tauranga And Mount Maunganui
- Tauranga And The Mount's Best Cafes To Froth Over
Main image credit: Architecturally-Designed Studio | Airbnb
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