There are so many great things to do in the Bay of Plenty. For a comprehensive list you can check out our Bay of Plenty pages at Linku2 School Holidays or read on and pick your top picks for great family fun these school holidays!
If you're specifically looking for activities in Tauranga check out below and also our Tauranga/Western Bay of Plenty site page too.
No trip to Tauranga is complete without hiking (or running) up Mount Maunganui, also known as Mauao. This must-do activity offers a variety of walking tracks up and around the mountain, with the 30-minute climb to the summit rewarding you with breathtaking 360-degree views of the beaches, Tauranga city, the Pacific Ocean, and on clear days, even the Coromandel Peninsula.
A local favorite, McLaren Falls Park is just a 20-minute drive from Tauranga. Spend a full day exploring the park's diverse sections of native and exotic trees, walking around the reflective Lake McLaren, and marveling at the McLaren Falls at the park's entrance.
Experience Tauranga’s stunning coastline with Bay Explorer or Dolphin Seafaris. These tours offer the chance to see dolphins, whales, orcas, and other sea life, guided by passionate locals who share their knowledge of the unique aquatic environment.
The free-entry Tauranga Art Gallery features ever-changing exhibitions and artwork. It’s a great spot to find inspiration and a popular activity for kids.
Located on the edge of the inner Tauranga harbour, the Katikati Bird Gardens are a serene destination with water-lily ponds, mature trees, flower gardens, and natural wetlands. The gardens are home to a variety of birds, both free-roaming and in aviaries, making this a truly unique corner of New Zealand.
Leisure Island (Moturiki) is easily accessible via a footbridge from Mt Maunganui’s main beach. A 10-minute walk takes you to a blowhole, making this leisurely stroll one of the top activities in Mount Maunganui.
Explore the region’s coastline and inner bays by booking a tour or hiring a kayak. KG Kayaks, East Coast Paddler, and Waimarino offer memorable paddling adventures, including evening glow worm tours, SUP lessons, and coastal adventures.
On chilly days, unwind at the Mount Hot Pools at the base of Mt Maunganui. With general admission around NZ$20, it’s an affordable way to relax.
Relax by tranquil Lake McLaren, enjoy local refreshments, and at dusk, embark on a guided kayak tour to see the enchanting glow worm canyon with Waimarino Kayak Tours.
Tauranga and Mt Maunganui host a range of vibrant markets. Visit the Little Big Markets in Coronation Park, Mt Maunganui, on the first Saturday of each month during summer, and the Tauranga Farmers Market at Tauranga Primary School on Saturdays. The Tauranga Market at the Historic Village is held on the first and third Sundays of each month.
Hop on the Brewbus and discover Tauranga’s local micro-breweries. Learn about the brewing process and enjoy tasting some of the best craft beers. Not really a family outing but Mum and Dad might enjoy in their down time!!
Explore Tauranga’s impressive street murals, which provide great photo opportunities. Visit the car parks and parking buildings around Spring Street, the huge mural on Grey Street, and more artworks on The Strand, Cameron Road, and Dive Crescent.
Papamoa, Tauranga’s largest suburb, offers 16 km of golden-sand beach. Enjoy beach activities or explore hikes and mountain bike trails in the Papamoa Hills.
Visit the Te Puna Quarry Park, a disused quarry turned into a spectacular garden. Maintained by volunteers, the park features sculptures, native and exotic plants, and numerous photo opportunities along its easy walkways. It's great for a family outing!
Explore Tauranga and the Bay of Plenty by bike. Day Trippers Cycle Tours offer guided tours and bike hire for a fun way to see the region.
Ōhope Beach is perfect for a summer getaway with its abundant sunshine, warm waters, and safe swimming. This 11 km stretch of white sand was voted NZ’s Most Loved Beach, stretching from Ōhiwa Harbour to West End.
For a spectacular experience, book a scenic flight with Adventure Helicopters. They offer flights over stunning areas of the Bay of Plenty and special packages combining food, wine, and scenic tours.
The Bay of Plenty’s 125 km of pristine coastline makes it an ideal spot to learn to surf. Book a lesson with one of the many surf schools along the beach fronts and start catching waves.There are lots of opportunities along Mount Maunganui beach but also further afield along the Bay of Plenty coastline.
If you want a full day out, or in fact a full week out, then don't miss out on a trip to our great Rotorua, or Roto Vegas!! There are so many things to do it's difficult to list them all but you can explore the geothermal activity, visit the hot pools, there's an abundance of surrounding lakes, ziplining, tree walking and outdoor activities for everyone. You can check out a comprehensive list of activities on our Linku2 School Holidays Rotorua page.
Discover the towering trees, rushing rivers, diverse habitats, and rich history of Whirinaki Te Pua-a-Tāne Conservation Park. Located within easy driving distance of Whakatāne, this unique forest is a must-see biodiversity hotspot.
Experience the fun of riding whitewater rapids on a riverbug. Explore the scenic Wairoa river valley near Tauranga on the ‘Fun Bug’ tour for families and kids, or tackle the ‘Action Bug’ tour on the Rangitāiki river for a thrilling adventure.
Katikati, known as New Zealand’s Mural Town, features over 80 outdoor murals and sculptures. Grab a map from The Arts Junction and explore the town’s artworks, many of which depict historical scenes.
Join a guided tour to Moutohorā, a protected wildlife sanctuary home to rare flora and fauna. Discover the island’s hot water beach and spot dolphins, penguins, and rare native birds.
Take a guided walking or kayak tour to the Moutohorā/Whale Island wildlife sanctuary. Spot dolphins, penguins, seals, and rare native birds on this 143-hectare volcanic island.
Where's your favourite go-to place in the Bay of Plenty? Let us know in the comments below and go in the draw this October 2024 to WIN a $25 voucher from any place of your choice in the beautiful Bay of Plenty!!
The Bay of Plenty region is teeming with exciting activities, and the good news is that there are plenty of cost-effective options in both Tauranga and Mt Maunganui. Whether you're interested in hiking, art galleries, culinary adventures, or social gatherings, you'll find a wealth of opportunities for all ages, all abilities and all pockets!!
Today we are focusing on Mount Maunganui and we’ll start with the most obvious activity …
Waste no time soaking in the breathtaking views from the summit of Mt Maunganui, also known as Mauao or "The Mount." Several walking trails lead up and around The Mount, but the 30-minute climb to the summit offers sweeping panoramic vistas of beaches, Tauranga city, and the Pacific Ocean. Fitness enthusiasts can tackle a run up and down "the Mount" or families with pushchairs or those not wanting quite such a strenuous activity “The Base Track” walk around the base of the Mount is also a great walk worth taking. Why not enjoy both!
Whilst in the same area why not try your hand (or rather feet and legs) at …
When the waves are up Mt Maunganui Beach offers great thrilling wave-riding fun. There are plenty of surf shops and kiosks along the beach front that often offer deals on surfboard rentals and opportunities for lessons. Surfing is, naturally, high in popularity as an activity in Tauranga.
And before moving on from the immediate vicinity, after your strenuous climb and attempts at riding the waves why not head to …
Enjoy a relaxing soak in the Mount Hot Pools located beneath the majesty of Mauao and the only hot ocean water complex in the world! Prices are quite reasonable, including family pass options. Plus if you have a Tauranga Residents Card you get further discounts!
The pools also offer private pools, massage options and aquafit classes!
Salt water bathing health benefits were recognised as far back as 500BC by Hippocrates believing the warm waters help to rebalance and detoxify our bodies and improve mobility by easing muscle and joint inflammation.
If you’re in the Mount and you’re not into the surf of Mount Maunganui beach then don’t worry! Just on the other side of the Peninsula and edging Tauranga Harbour you will find stunningly beautiful white sands and calm waters of Pilot Bay! This is the side to enjoy kayaks, fishing and paddle boarding. Great for families who want to avoid the surf and Pilot Bay is also the home of Kewpie Cruises.
In 1953, a Kauri hull vessel called KEWPIE was crafted in Opua Bay of Islands, coinciding with the same year as Queen Elizabeth's Coronation. Over the span of its 60 years of service, KEWPIE has woven a vibrant tapestry into New Zealand's history.
Originally commissioned by (Fullers) to support the burgeoning commerce along the renowned Bay of Islands "Cream Run," KEWPIE embarked daily from (Russel) to the outlying islands. Its duties encompassed collecting milk cans, transporting passengers, and delivering mail. This commercial venture eventually evolved into one of New Zealand's most sought-after tourist experiences, with tourism surpassing freight as the primary source of revenue.
The vessel's moniker, KEWPIE, was a nod to its former guide, Ted KEWBIT, who achieved fame during his lifetime as one of New Zealand's most renowned guides. The story goes that Ted earned the nickname KEWPIE from his fellow patrons at the local pub. Ted was a charismatic and unforgettable character, characterized by his short stature, ruddy complexion, and cheeky demeanor, which endeared him to both adult passengers and children alike.
It wasn't until the vessel's christening, marked by the smashing of champagne on its bow, that the name KEWPIE was unveiled, leaving Ted in astonishment and deeply moved. In 1957, Ted passed away, leaving behind a legacy embodied by the enduring KEWPIE.
Now running from the jetty at Pilot Bay you can enjoy an iconic scenic harbour cruise on board or get dropped off and enjoy Matakana Island and kids under 12 also travel free!
Note cruises do not run in the winter.
Situated within Tauranga Airport, the Classic Flyers Aviation Museum holds great appeal for aviation enthusiasts and doesn’t leave the kids out either! Its impressive assortment encompasses vintage aircraft, aviation relics, and informative exhibitions that chronicle the aviation heritage of New Zealand.
At this museum, visitors can discover a wide array of aircraft examples and history, encompassing classic warplanes, commercial airliners, and aged helicopters. Additionally, they offer interactive displays and exhibitions divulging the progression of aviation technology and its significance in New Zealand's past.
With the option to climb through aircraft hulls and enjoy toy airplane fun for the kids, as well as a children’s birthday party venue, there really is something for all ages and is an excellent destination to explore.
A locally owned and operated 2nd generation brewery with a passion for making tasty high quality brews found, unexpectedly in the heart of the industrial area of the Mount.
Great for family outings with a varied menu and options for great tasting paddles for the adults of their varieties of brews and ciders and right on the park edge where the kids can play safely.
There’s a great atmosphere and a real buzz to an outing to this place!
Perhaps considered an unusual place to find a museum dedicated to the Rhodesian Services Association. The Lion and Tusk Museum was established in 2018. It contains a collection of historical, cultural, artistic and scientific information displays, video, photos and writings which depict Rhodesia, and Rhodesians of all races, from the late 19th century until the country's transition to Zimbabwe in 1980.
Displays include and Alouette III helicopter, medals, badges, weapons, uniforms, equipment, shop, souvenirs, library and Memorial Garden.
If you’re a fan of either shopping or dining then you’ll love Mount Maunganui! The town centre is a hub packed with eateries and boutique shops with beautiful gifts, clothing and more. There really is too many to start singling out shops or eateries covering all cuisines, you really have to just go to the Mount and discover for yourself!
Calling all cricket lovers! Bay Oval, the home of Bay of Plenty cricket, is found right here in Mount Maunganui. It has been a witness to numerous unforgettable moments in cricket, spanning from domestic contests to international clashes. Thanks to its tranquil beachside ambiance and the region's consistently sunny and pleasant weather, Bay Oval stands out as a delightful venue for both participating in and spectating cricket in New Zealand. With a seating capacity of 12,000, it provides an intimate sporting experience that brings cricket enthusiasts closer to the on-field action. If you’re wondering what’s on at the Oval check out their website events at https://www.bayoval.co.nz/whats-on
Whilst Mt Maunganui beach and Papamoa beach are separate beaches they are adjacent and you can’t visit the area without also spending some time on Papamoa beach. Mt Maunganui beach is approximately 1.6 km long and Papamoa beach is approximately 16 km long. Uncrowded and pristine white sands the beach is definitely worth a visit and play for the kids!
We have hunted out our five favourite dive sites in New Zealand. New Zealand reportedly has more scuba divers per capita than any other country in the world. Whether it's cruising around reefs in subtropical Northland water, or exploring a subterranean fresh-water cave system, Kiwis are at home under the water.
POOR KNIGHTS ISLANDS
If you're looking for superb diving opportunities in New Zealand, you cannot go past the Poor Knights Islands, off the coast of Tutukaka, near Whangarei. Jacques Cousteau named it as one of the top 10 dive sites in the world and more recently Diver magazine called it the world's best subtropical dive.
Warm currents swept in from tropical waters further north support 125 different species of fish, as well as corals, sponges, kelp forests and stingrays. This is the place to go for stunning displays of underwater colour: Reef fish mingle with sponges, anemones and vibrant seaweeds.
The islands are the remains of a group of 11-million-year-old volcanoes and underwater cliffs drop to 100m below sea level in places. Caves and archways shelter species that usually would be found much deeper than they are here - in the Rikoriko Cave, 10m below the surface, is a sponge usually found 200m down.
The Poor Knights include the world's largest sea cave - so big that it's reputed to have hidden a Japanese submarine during World War II.
Visibility is best in winter, when divers can see up to 30m. But as the water warms up, plankton moves in and decreases visibility, although it boosts fish life. Watch out for passing humpbacks and turtles.
RAINBOW WARRIOR
Still in the north, Greenpeace's flagship boat was sunk at the Cavalli Islands in 1987, two years after its infamous bombing in the Auckland harbour. It is now an artificial reef teeming with marine life and a very popular dive site. But reports from divers say that the wreck appears to be disintegrating at an increasing rate, so this is one to visit sooner rather than later. The wreck is 27m below the surface, and about 40m in length.
It is covered with gorgeous jewel anemones - but some experts say it takes a night dive to see them at their very best. On a normal day you could expect to come face-to-face with golden snapper, kingfish, john dory, mackerel, scorpion fish, moray eels and crayfish.
There are usually mild currents and visibility is good from February until the end of June.
RIWAKA CAVERNS
A unique opportunity for divers of any skill level, the Riwaka Caverns near Nelson are a massive underground network of caves and tunnels, filled with fresh water. A bush walk leads you to the start of the dive, where you slip underwater and swim through a series of enormous caverns.
It's cold and very dark at the beginning but once you surface inside, you can take your scuba equipment off and marvel at the stalactite and stalagmite formations as well as a waterfall of pink limestone inside the cave at the end of the second sump.
Divers comment on the unexpected size of everything to do with this dive - from the boulders they clamber over to the caves themselves. Explorers have so far ventured about 800 metres into the network, called the Riwaka Resurgence.
WHITE ISLAND
There are not many places in the world where you can dive around a live volcano but New Zealand is one of them.
White Island, about 50km off the coast of Whakatane, is a 200,000-year-old volcano surrounded by water that is full of marine life, including kingfish, stingrays, moray eels and blue maomao.
Fissures in the rocks create a ''spa-pool'' effect of bubbles in places. The water temperature hovers about 18 degrees but can get to 22 degrees in summer and divers report up to 50m visibility, with reefs, pinnacles, drop-offs, boulders, archways and plateaus to explore. Stop for lunch or to snorkel at Champagne Bay, which gets its name from the thermal activity in the water. Rare diadema urchins have made their home at White Island - check them out at Diadema Rock.
HMNZS WELLINGTON (F69)
After 18 years in the New Zealand navy, the Wellington is now the most accessible dive wreck on the planet, just off the coast of Wellington, about 10 minutes from the airport. Scuttled in 2005, the wreck has been broken up into three sections by currents and is a living reef, home to many different species of fish.
The wreck is roughly 24m down, with visibility of about eight metres. Being Wellington, divers are warned to watch for currents. Dive around the gun turret or take in the exterior of the ship - diving in the midship and stern sections is not advised. This is as safe as it gets for wreck diving, though, you will not even need a torch.
Article courtesy of Hamilton News - 3/12/12
