Did you know that Tauranga’s Mount Maunganui Beach was ranked among the top 25 beaches in the world? This coastal gem in New Zealand’s Bay of Plenty region offers far more than just stunning shorelines. From hiking an extinct volcano to kayaking through glow worm canyons, Tauranga blends natural beauty with adventure in a way few destinations can match. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or making it part of your North Island road trip, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best things to do in Tauranga, New Zealand.
Getting to Tauranga & Planning Your Journey
Tauranga is located approximately 200 km (124 miles) southeast of Auckland on New Zealand’s North Island. As the largest city in the Bay of Plenty region, it’s easily accessible by various transportation methods.
Tauranga’s stunning harbor with Mount Maunganui in the background
By Air
Tauranga Airport offers domestic flights from Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. The flight from Auckland takes approximately 30 minutes, making it a convenient option if you’re short on time.
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By Road
Driving to Tauranga is a popular option, especially if you want to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace:
- From Auckland: 2.5-3 hours via State Highway 2
- From Rotorua: 1 hour via State Highway 36
- From Hamilton: 1.5 hours via State Highway 1 and 29
By Cruise Ship
Tauranga is New Zealand’s largest cruise port, welcoming nearly a quarter-million cruise visitors annually. The Port of Tauranga is consistently voted as visitors’ favorite port in New Zealand.
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Best Time to Visit Tauranga & Weather Tips
Tauranga enjoys a temperate climate with warm, humid summers and mild winters. The city receives some of New Zealand’s highest sunshine hours, making it a year-round destination.
Recommended Seasons
Summer (December-February)
Peak season with temperatures ranging from 22-26°C (72-80°F). Perfect for beach activities, water sports, and hiking. Expect more crowds and higher accommodation prices.
Autumn (March-May)
Mild temperatures between 17-22°C (63-72°F) with fewer tourists. Ideal for hiking and outdoor activities without the summer crowds.
Spring (September-November)
Temperatures range from 15-20°C (59-68°F). The landscape comes alive with blooming flowers, and it’s a great time for hiking and outdoor exploration.
Winter (June-August)
Cooler temperatures between 10-15°C (50-59°F). While not ideal for beach activities, winter offers lower accommodation rates and is perfect for hot pools and indoor attractions.
Best Months to Visit: February to April offers the perfect balance of warm weather, fewer crowds, and stable conditions for outdoor activities.
Months to Avoid: July and August can be rainy and cooler, though still milder than many other New Zealand destinations.
Getting Around Tauranga
Navigating Tauranga and the surrounding Bay of Plenty region is relatively straightforward with several transportation options available.
The Strand waterfront promenade in downtown Tauranga
Public Transport
Tauranga has a reliable bus network operated by Bay of Plenty Regional Council’s Bayhopper service. Buses connect the city center with Mount Maunganui, Papamoa, and other suburbs. A Bee Card is the easiest way to pay for bus travel and offers discounted fares.
Rental Cars
For maximum flexibility, especially if you plan to explore beyond the city, renting a car is highly recommended. Several rental agencies operate in Tauranga, including at the airport.
Explore at Your Own Pace
Rent a car to discover all the hidden gems around Tauranga and the Bay of Plenty.
Taxis and Rideshares
Taxis and Uber are readily available in Tauranga and Mount Maunganui. They’re convenient for shorter trips or when you don’t want to worry about parking.
Cycling
Tauranga has an expanding network of cycling paths, making it a bike-friendly city. Several shops offer bicycle rentals if you prefer to explore on two wheels.
Where to Stay in Tauranga
Tauranga offers accommodation options to suit every budget and preference, from luxury waterfront hotels to budget-friendly hostels.
Luxury waterfront accommodation with stunning harbor views
Mount Maunganui
Stay in Mount Maunganui for direct beach access and a vibrant atmosphere. This area offers everything from luxury apartments to backpacker hostels, all within walking distance of New Zealand’s top-rated beach.
Downtown Tauranga
The city center provides convenient access to restaurants, shops, and the waterfront. Accommodation here ranges from boutique hotels to serviced apartments, perfect for those who prefer urban amenities.
Papamoa
For a more relaxed beach experience, consider staying in Papamoa. This coastal suburb offers holiday parks, beach houses, and resorts with direct access to a beautiful, less crowded beach.
Find Your Perfect Stay
Browse a wide range of accommodation options in Tauranga and the Bay of Plenty.
Best Areas for Families
- Mount Maunganui – Close to beaches and family attractions
- Papamoa – Quieter beaches and family-friendly holiday parks
- Bethlehem – Suburban area with good amenities and parks
Areas to Consider Carefully
- Downtown Tauranga – Can be noisy on weekend nights
- Mount Maunganui (peak season) – Very crowded and expensive
- Industrial areas near the port – Less scenic and convenient
Dining & Local Cuisine in Tauranga
Tauranga’s food scene has flourished in recent years, offering everything from fresh seafood to international cuisine, with a strong focus on locally sourced ingredients.
Fresh seafood dining with harbor views along The Strand
The Strand & Waterfront
Downtown Tauranga’s waterfront area is lined with restaurants and cafes offering harbor views. The Strand is perfect for everything from casual brunches to fine dining experiences.
Top Picks:
- Harbourside Restaurant – Upscale dining with excellent seafood and sunset views
- Cornerstone Bar and Eatery – Casual pub fare with sports on TV and live music
- Dry Dock Cafe – Perfect for breakfast or lunch with outdoor harbor-view seating
Mount Maunganui Dining
The Mount offers a vibrant food scene with beachside cafes, international restaurants, and craft beer establishments.
Must-Try Spots:
- The Rising Tide – Family-run brewhouse with 40 beers on tap and delicious food
- Bobby’s Fresh Fish Market – Local institution for the best fish and chips in town
- The Nourished Eatery – Colorful vegan cafe with healthy options and smoothies
Local Specialties
Don’t miss these Bay of Plenty culinary experiences:
- Fresh Kiwifruit – The region is famous for its kiwifruit production
- Seafood – Try locally caught snapper, mussels, and oysters
- Hangi – Traditional Māori cooking method where food is prepared in an earth oven
- Craft Beer – Sample local brews from Tauranga’s growing craft beer scene
Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Tauranga
From natural wonders to cultural experiences, Tauranga offers diverse attractions to suit all interests.
The iconic Mount Maunganui (Mauao) rising above the pristine beach
1. Hike Mount Maunganui (Mauao)
This extinct volcano, rising 232 meters (761 feet) above sea level, is Tauranga’s most iconic landmark. The Mauao Summit Track takes about 40 minutes to climb and rewards you with breathtaking 360° views of the entire bay. For a less strenuous option, try the 3.4 km Base Track that circles the mountain.
2. Relax at Mount Maunganui Beach
Consistently ranked as New Zealand’s best beach, Mount Maunganui Beach offers pristine white sand and excellent swimming conditions. The beach stretches for kilometers, providing plenty of space even during busy summer months.
3. Explore Moturiki (Leisure Island)
Connected to Mount Maunganui Beach by a man-made land bridge, this small island offers rock pools, nature walks, and a blowhole that shoots seawater high into the air during high tide and rough seas.
Experience Tauranga’s Best Attractions
Book guided tours to make the most of your visit to Tauranga’s top sights.
4. Visit McLaren Falls Park
Located just 10 minutes from Tauranga, this 190-hectare park features beautiful waterfalls, walking trails, and one of New Zealand’s best botanical tree collections. The park is also home to glow worms, which can be seen after dark along the waterfall track.
The picturesque McLaren Falls surrounded by native bush
5. Stroll The Strand Waterfront
Tauranga’s downtown waterfront area is perfect for a leisurely walk, shopping, or dining. The area features restaurants, cafes, the Tauranga Art Gallery, and a waterfront playground for children.
Unique Activities & Experiences in Tauranga
Beyond the standard sightseeing, Tauranga offers some truly special experiences that will make your visit memorable.
Night kayaking to see the magical glow worms at McLaren Lake
1. Night Kayak to See Glow Worms
One of Tauranga’s most magical experiences is kayaking on Lake McLaren at night to see thousands of glow worms illuminating the canyon walls. Tours typically include wine and cheese on the lakeshore before paddling into the darkness to witness this natural light show.
Don’t Miss This Magical Experience!
Book your glow worm kayaking adventure – one of Tauranga’s most unique activities.
2. Day Trip to Hobbiton
Located about 45-60 minutes from Tauranga, the Hobbiton Movie Set is a must-visit for Lord of the Rings fans. This meticulously preserved film set allows you to step into Middle-earth and see the hobbit holes, Green Dragon Inn, and other iconic locations from the movies.
3. Swim with Wild Dolphins
The Bay of Plenty waters are home to several dolphin species. Join a dolphin cruise for the chance to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, or for the adventurous, swim alongside them in the open ocean.
Wild dolphins in their natural habitat in the Bay of Plenty waters
4. White Water Rafting on the Kaituna River
For adrenaline seekers, rafting the Kaituna River offers an unforgettable experience. The river features 14 rapids and includes Tutea Falls, the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world at 7 meters (23 feet).
5. Relax at Fernland Spa
Unwind in the natural mineral waters of Fernland Spa. These non-chlorinated hot pools are surrounded by native ferns and offer a perfect way to relax after a day of exploration.
Cultural Experiences & Museums
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Tauranga and the wider Bay of Plenty region.
Traditional Māori cultural performance showcasing heritage and traditions
Tauranga Art Gallery
Located in the former Bank of New Zealand building, the Tauranga Art Gallery showcases both local and international art. The gallery features around 500 pieces with a focus on work by local artists. Admission is $7 NZD for international visitors and free for New Zealand residents.
Māori Cultural Experiences
Learn about New Zealand’s indigenous culture through immersive Māori experiences. Many tours include traditional welcomes, cultural performances, and hangi meals (food cooked in an earth oven). These experiences offer insights into Māori traditions, language, and customs.
Discover Māori Culture
Book a cultural tour to learn about New Zealand’s rich indigenous heritage.
Street Art
Both Tauranga and Mount Maunganui feature impressive street art from well-known artists. Pick up a free street art map from the local i-SITE visitor center and take a self-guided tour to discover colorful murals throughout the city.
Hairy Maclary Sculptures
Fans of the beloved children’s book series will enjoy the bronze sculptures of Hairy Maclary and his friends at the Tauranga waterfront. These charming statues pay tribute to local author Dame Lynley Dodd’s famous canine characters.
Outdoor Adventures & Nature Experiences
With its diverse landscapes, Tauranga offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to connect with nature.
Surfing the waves at Mount Maunganui Beach
Beaches & Water Sports
Beyond Mount Maunganui Beach, explore other coastal gems:
- Pilot Bay – Calmer waters perfect for families with young children
- Papamoa Beach – Long, less crowded beach ideal for long walks
- Newdicks Beach – Secluded spot with beautiful coastal cliffs (small entrance fee)
Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy:
- Surfing – Mount Maunganui Beach offers consistent waves for all skill levels
- Stand-up Paddleboarding – Try SUP in the harbor or at Pilot Bay
- Fishing – Join a charter or fish from the rocks near Leisure Island
Hiking & Walking Trails
Beyond Mount Maunganui, explore these natural areas:
- Kaiate Falls – A picturesque one-hour walk through native bush to impressive waterfalls
- Wairere Falls – The North Island’s highest waterfall at 153 meters (502 feet)
- Te Puna Quarry Park – Former quarry transformed into a beautiful garden with sculptures
- Matapihi Footbridge – Walk across Tauranga Harbor on this combined rail and pedestrian bridge
The multi-tiered Kaiate Falls surrounded by native bush
Swimming Holes & Natural Pools
Cool off in these natural swimming spots:
- Pori Pori Water Hole – Popular local swimming spot with deep pools and rock jumping
- McLaren Falls – Swimming areas below the falls (check water safety notices)
Adventure Awaits!
Book guided outdoor adventures to experience Tauranga’s natural beauty safely.
Day Trips from Tauranga
Tauranga’s central location makes it an excellent base for exploring more of the Bay of Plenty and beyond.
Tauranga and surrounding day trip destinations
Rotorua (1 hour drive)
Famous for its geothermal activity, Māori culture, and adventure activities. Visit bubbling mud pools, geysers, and thermal springs, or experience authentic Māori cultural performances.
Hobbiton Movie Set (45-60 minute drive)
Visit the famous Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movie set near Matamata. Tours take you through the Shire, including hobbit holes and the Green Dragon Inn.
The enchanting Hobbiton Movie Set, a must-visit for Lord of the Rings fans
Waihi Beach (30 minute drive)
A beautiful coastal town with a 9 km long white sand beach. Perfect for swimming, surfing, or simply relaxing. The Waihi Beach to Orokawa Bay walking track offers stunning coastal views.
Kiwifruit Country (25 minute drive)
Learn about New Zealand’s famous kiwifruit industry with a tour of a working kiwifruit orchard. Sample fresh kiwifruit and kiwifruit ice cream after your tour.
Explore Beyond Tauranga
Book guided day trips to make the most of your time in the Bay of Plenty.
Practical Travel Tips
Make your Tauranga visit smooth and enjoyable with these essential travel tips.
Safety Information
- Beach Safety – Always swim between the red and yellow flags at patrolled beaches
- Sun Protection – New Zealand’s sun is extremely strong due to low ozone levels. Wear sunscreen (SPF 50+), a hat, and sunglasses
- Hiking Safety – Carry water, wear appropriate footwear, and check weather conditions before hiking
- Emergency Number – Dial 111 for police, fire, or ambulance services
Local Etiquette & Customs
- Māori Culture – Show respect for Māori customs. Ask permission before photographing cultural performances
- Tipping – Not expected in New Zealand, but appreciated for exceptional service
- Conservation – New Zealand takes environmental protection seriously. Follow the “Leave No Trace” principles
- Greetings – A friendly “Kia ora” (hello in Māori) is always appreciated
The traditional Māori greeting known as “hongi” – the pressing of noses and foreheads
Practical Information
- Currency – New Zealand Dollar (NZD). ATMs widely available
- Electricity – 230V, 50Hz with angled two or three-pin plugs (Type I)
- Wi-Fi – Available in most accommodations, cafes, and public spaces
- Drinking Water – Tap water is safe to drink throughout New Zealand
- Opening Hours – Most shops open 9am-5:30pm weekdays, with reduced hours on weekends
Useful Apps
- Transit NZ – For public transportation information
- CamperMate – Helpful for finding facilities if traveling by campervan
- MetService NZ – For accurate weather forecasts
- GeoNet – For geological hazard information
Ready for Your Tauranga Adventure?
From the iconic Mount Maunganui to magical glow worm kayaking experiences, Tauranga offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re seeking beach time, outdoor activities, or a taste of New Zealand’s rich heritage, this Bay of Plenty gem delivers unforgettable memories.
With its mild climate, stunning natural landscapes, and friendly locals, Tauranga deserves its reputation as one of New Zealand’s most beloved destinations. Pack your sunscreen, hiking shoes, and sense of adventure – the white sands and blue waters of Tauranga are waiting for you!
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