The Bay of Plenty boasts some of the best sun, sea and sand that New Zealand has to offer. Tucked away along the coveted coastline is Tauranga, home to the iconic Mauao volcano and dreamy Mount Maunganui beach. Affectionately termed “the Mount” by locals, this seaside gem offers watersports for the adventurous, mouth-watering eats for the foodies and so much more.
Here's my round-up of the very best things to do in Tauranga.
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Outdoor Adventures
Climb Mauao At Sunrise
Main Beach, Mount Maunganui
Image credit: Mount Maunganui | Logan West Photography Mount Maunganui is an extinct volcano that sits pretty across the harbour from Tauranga. Its Māori name, Mauao, means “caught by dawn”—so it’s only appropriate to experience all it has to offer at daybreak. There are several walking tracks available and it typically takes an hour to wind your way up through the pohutukawa trees. Although it’s a steep climb, once you reach the summit you’ll be greeted with 360° views of the Bay of Plenty coastline and Tauranga town centre. The mountain is flanked by two of New Zealand’s most picturesque beaches, Mount Maunganui Beach and Pilot Bay, making for a truly jaw-dropping vista from every angle. I recommend packing a breakfast picnic (coffee mandatory) for peak sunrise-watching. Tauranga activities truly don't come better than this.
Get Splashed At An Adventure Water Park
36 Taniwha Place, Bethlehem, Tauranga
If you're seeking multiple Tauranga adventure activities in one place, look no further than Waimarino Adventure Park. Take a 10-minute drive from the city centre and you’ll find an abundance of activities set up across the Wairoa River. There’s something for everyone including rock climbing walls and a good old slip ‘n’ slide. The more courageous should not miss the Tarzan swing, water trampoline or the ‘blob’—a giant inflatable that skyrockets you into the lake. For those seeking a peaceful water activity, Waimarino also offers evening glow-worm kayak tours on Lake McLaren—it’s as dreamy as it sounds.
Go Chasing Waterfalls
Various Locations
Image credit: Bay Of Plenty NZ | Supplied
IMHO, every Kiwi summer must include a waterfall hike. First off, hit up McLaren Falls Park, where the short 20-minute walk will have you winding through glow worm caves and native forest. There are also several other tracks that run through the 190-hectare reserve, so set out for a few hours of exploring. Next on the agenda is the Kaiate Falls which are a 30-minute drive from Tauranga. Follow the forest walking track to the top of the falls and then down alongside the cascades until you reach the swimming hole—cue an afternoon dip in this dreamy lagoon.
Cultural And Arts Experiences
Get Among The Markets
Various Locations
Image credit: Little Big Markets | Website
One of the best things to do in Tauranga happens exclusively at the weekend—I'm talking markets. On the first and third Saturday of every month check out the Little Big Markets which feature a line-up of eclectic artisans and mouthwatering eats. You’ll find everything from French crepes to rainbow shaved ice and locally crafted goodies. Foodies cannot miss the Dinner in the Domain, a weekly gathering of the best food trucks around. I'm talking bubble waffles, the juiciest burgers, giant paella and sweet treats. And I'm drooling from the decadent snacks on offer at Hello Rosie, a connoisseur of vegan junk food. But if you would rather dig into a fresh piece of fruit, check out the Saturday farmers market for some stunning seasonal produce that would amp up any cheeseboard.
Shop Local At These Stores
Various Locations
Shopping in Tauranga is all about uncovering hidden treasures at independent stores. Those with a design eye and love for Kiwi-made brands (me!) should stop by Paper Plane concept store, where you’ll find a curated selection of fashion, lifestyle goods and homewares.
You might also like:
- The Sweetest Airbnbs In All Of Tauranga
- Tauranga & The Mount's Best Restaurants
- Top Tauranga Camping Grounds
Visit This Quaint Historic Village
159 17th Avenue West, Tauranga
Image credit: The Historic Village | Facebook
Step back in time with a stroll through the cobbled streets of The Historic Village. Packed with secret nooks, cute cafés and eclectic artisans, I could easily spend a whole day here. There are also a number of small art studios to explore including the Turner Gallery and Imprint Gallery, so art aficionados will be well looked after.
Visit A Legit Battleground
Gate Pā, Tauranga
When it comes to cultural activities, Tauranga has some serious grit. Delve deep into the Land Wars of the mid-19th century, for example, with a visit to the site of the Battle of Pukehinahina (Gate Pā).This was one of the major battles fought at the time and is significant because though the Māori forces were massively outnumbered by the British, their innovative use of trenches saw them win. This battle was also made famous by the former's adherence to a unique personal code of conduct, which saw their soldiers caring for wounded British and giving them water. Learn this and other fascinating truths with talks/tours, run via the St George's Anglican Church in conjunction with a local historian, or wander the battlegrounds and take in the signage and dedicated carvings for yourself.
Food And Drinks
Roll Up To Polar Dessert Bar
10 Prince Ave, Mount Maunganui
Image credit: Polar Dessert Bar | Instagram
Recognised by its sweet polar bear logo, this spot is always cranking and for good reason—it's home to the Bay's best gelato. Load your scoops with lollies, sauces, nuts, and whatever else your sweet tooth desires, or indulge in the true Polar Dessert Bar experience by watching their talented crew whip up rolled gelato on the custom-built cold plate. It's magical, strangely therapeautic and of course, freakin' delicious. Mount Maunganui activities don't come cooler than this (sorry not sorry).
Embrace The Rising Tide
107 Newton St, Mount Maunganui
Dine At Blondie Diner
200 Maunganui Road, Mount Maunganui
Image credit: Blondie Diner | Website
Treat your taste buds with all things fried and fabulous at the American-inspired Blondie Diner (from the peeps behind the equally epic Palace Tavern). From stacked sandos with cheese pulls for days, to slices of crack pie (IFYKYK), to fried chicken-topped waffles saturated in maple syrup, this should be top of your Tauranga activities list (the foodie part, anyways). Brownie (blondie?) points for the cute AF fit-out.
Get Fed At Vitality Kitchen
114 Willow Street, Tauranga CBD
Health nuts should not miss Vitality Kitchen (formerly The Nourished Eatery). The plant-based cafe is all about using local, fresh produce and prides itself in being 100% vegan, with gluten-free and dairy-free options. For lunch, you might devour a delicious Buddha Bowl, GF buckwheat pancakes, or a blackbean burger . Make sure to leave room for their smoothies and speciality sweet treats, which include chonky choc-chip cookies and stuffed doughnuts. Get in my belly.
Unique Experiences In Tauranga
Unwind In Salt Water Hot Pools
9 Adams Avenue, Mount Maunganui
Image credit: Mount Hot Pools | Supplied
A visit to the Mount Hot Pools is one of the best things to do in Tauranga, period. Known for its therapeutic benefits, I believe a soak in these salt-water pools against the backdrop of Mount Maunganui will leave you feeling like a new person. If you’re wanting to amp up the luxury, simply book in for a private pool and that massage you know you deserve.
Sail A Catamaran To This Uninhibited Island
Whakatāne
A short drive along the coast will bring you to Whakatāne, your starting point for an epic day on a catamaran. Set sail for Moutohora Island, a wildlife reserve off the Bay of Plenty coast. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot some of the rare native wildlife onshore like Kākāriki, Tuatara, fur seals and penguins. Alternatively, take a snorkel around the island for a glimpse of the equally beautiful marine life. Wrap up your trip by soaking in the island's private hot water beach or lounging lazily off the side of the boat—this is a day in paradise.
Walk To Moturiki Island
Main Beach, Mount Maunganui
Image credit: Moturiki Island | Explore Tauranga
Yes, you read that right, you can walk to this island. The small 350-metre long island sits adjacent to Mount Maunganui beach and is connected via a walking bridge. Upon stepping on the island you’ll find a blowhole that shoots water out during high tide. Follow the walking track upwards and you’ll be greeted with vast views of the ocean, Mauao and the city coastline. One of the best free things to do, Tauranga styles (AND one of the most fun).
Picnic In Style
Wherever You Like
Looking to indulge in some luxury? Then I reckon a bohemian-style picnic overlooking the ocean and Mauao mountain is the way to go, though you might prefer a garden or someplace else. No matter the occasion, be it a birthday celebration or just a fun evening out, Posh Picnics will kit you out with beach umbrellas, large fluffy pillows, festoon lights, cosy throws and place settings. They also have the food situation covered, with catered platters from their friends at Carballo. If it’s a romantic occasion (read: dream engagement), you can even add flowers to the mix.
Want more Tauranga food recs? Check out:
- The Best Fish And Chips In Tauranga
- Tauranga & Mount Maunganui Cafes You Must Visit
- Cool Off At These Tauranga Ice Cream Shops
Main image credit: Alex Spodyneiko
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