Tauranga is the largest city in the Bay of Plenty, popular for its captivating natural landscapes and bustling waterfront. The city will tempt you with an array of marine adventures along its picturesque coast, from fishing and sailing to diving and dolphin watching.
Things to do in Tauranga
Outdoor enthusiasts are spoiled for choice in Tauranga, such as swimming with wild dolphins. Head to McLaren Falls Park to see one of the best botanical collections of trees in New Zealand and hike the waterfall track to see glow worms after dusk.
Head to the Tauranga Art Gallery, one of New Zealand’s most respected regional public galleries, showcasing exhibitions of historical and contemporary art. Afterwards, learn more about the local culture with a stroll through Downtown Tauranga to discover boutique fashion shops, cafes and art galleries.
Bring the entire family to Waimarino Adventure Park, a fun-filled area with water trampolines, climbing walls, a kayak slide and slip ’n’ slides. With picnic tables, barbecue facilities and warm thermal pools, it’s easy to make a day of it.
One of New Zealand’s most popular beach towns, Mount Maunganui is just a 15-minute drive away. Lined with perfect white sand and warm ocean waves sitting at the base of Mt Maunganui’s iconic mountain, it’s the ultimate place to swim, surf and sunbathe.
Getting around Tauranga
Most attractions are within a 15-minute walk from the city centre of Tauranga, while the local bus system services the city and nearby neighbourhoods. Tauranga is a three-hour drive from Auckland, while New Zealand’s extensive bus network also operates connections from Auckland, Hamilton and Rotorua.