The Bay of Plenty says it all about Tauranga with all its incredible sites. Where else can you find a volcano, gorgeous beaches, restaurants and even shopping, all within walking distance? This is one of my favorite destinations in the world. As an Acupuncturist-at-Sea, I always fully enjoyed this spectacular port. So, read on to learn about Tauranga New Zealand attractions for an awesome itinerary.
Tauranga and Mt. Maunganui (Mauao) Background
The city, Tauranga lies on the northwestern corner of the Bay of Plenty on Tauranga Harbour. Its prominent suburb is Mount Maunganui, a beach town named after its namesake centerpiece, the extinct volcano. Mount Maunganui is on a sand bar, connecting Mauao to the mainland. This formation is called a tombolo. Its large lava dome formed by the upwelling of lava about 2-3 million years ago. Because of this formation, there is a harbor beach on Pilot Bay and ocean beach with awesome surf. It’s all within walking distance, offering eclectic attractions in close proximity.
Tauranga and Bay of Plenty are on a Faultline, with infrequent seismic activity. Besides Mauao, the infamous White Island is also on the Bay of Plenty. Unfortunately, White Island erupted recently and killed tourists. I was fortunate to see White Island from a ship before this devastating event. To learn more about White Island, please see my blogpost:
The Bay of Plenty is on a bight of North Island, stretching 260 km. The famous explorer, Captain Cook named it ‘Bay of Plenty.’ Because he observed abundant food supplies and many Maori villages, he gave the name. Also, according to Maori Legend, the Bay of Plenty was the entry bay for migration canoes bringing their settlers. Additionally, the Bay of Plenty is a geothermal hotspot with many hot springs for spas and healing. Overall, the region is home to more than 10 geothermal areas, including the famous Rotorua and the Tauranga itself.
Tauranga New Zealand Attractions
Mount Maunganui
Whenever, I am in Tauranga, I head straight for Mount Maunganui for a walk. Locals call it simply, “The Mount.” It has a lovely walking trail around the base of the extinct volcano with the Bay of Plenty shoreline on the other side of the path. The distance is about 3.4 km and mostly flat, so can be done in just 45 minutes. However, I always take longer for photos and nature breaks in this incredible settings of turquoise waters, black lava rocks and plentiful plant life. Along the way, there are ways to rest and enjoy the scenery, such as, picnic tables, grassy areas, and beaches.
Tip: Visit Mount Maunganui in December – January, when the “New Zealand Christmas Tree” blooms. The vibrant red blossoms of the aka Pohutukawa Tree are a colorful complement to the teal waters and black lava rocks and boulders. This adaptable tree thrives along the shoreline, because its leaves’ waxy coating protects it from the salty, sea air. Also, the birds and geckos pollinate its flowers.
Additionally, Visitors can take many paths to the 232 metres (761 ft) high summit. The panoramic views are epic and breathtaking for miles of the Bay of Plenty, beaches and Tauranga city below. Its relatively flat on top, so there is plenty of room to walk around on the summit and get stunning views.
Geothermal Hot Pools for a Spa Day
Overall, the region is home to more than 10 geothermal areas, including the famous Rotorua and Tauranga itself. In Tauranga there are at least a dozen hot pools for a spa day and rejuvenation. I relaxed and rejuvenated at the Mount Hot Pools, at the base of beautiful Mount Manuganui. It offers a range of options with a community and private swimming pools. I paid for my own private swimming pool, detoxing and relaxing in the warm salt water. This spa luxuriates your body with heated ocean water for detoxification, relaxation and rejuvenation.
Just an hour drive south of Tauranga is the famous Rotorua Hell’s Gate Geothermal Park and Mud Spa. Any visit to Tauranga would not be complete without a visit to Rotorua.
Related: Rotorua’s Unique Hell’s Gate Geothermal Park and Mud Spa
Bay of Plenty Beaches
Mount Maunganui’s Main Beach:
Voted the best beach in New Zealand, this beach has it all. The gorgeous teal-blue beach is at the base of the 714 m high Mount Maunganui. Additionally, the beautiful white sandy beach looks out into the Pacific Ocean with reputable surfs. Also, this is the beach for viewing the majestic sunrise.
Pilot Bay:
Just a 15-minute walk across the peninsula from Mount Maunganui is the calmer Pilot Bay. On the harbor side these serene waters are best for water sports, for example, kayaking and sailing. Additionally, this is the beach for gorgeous sunsets on the western horizon.
Ohope Beach:
This is known as being New Zealand’s ‘Most Loved Beach.’ It has 11 km of white sandy beaches and is lined with the “New Zealand Christmas Trees” or Pohutukawas. Also, it offers views of Whale Island and White Island.
Bay of Plenty Helicopter Ride
There is nothing like perspective from high above to see the Bay of Plenty with the volcanoes and Beaches. Also, this beautiful ride gives you an idea of the vast agricultural landscapes with fresh produce like kiwi and avocadoes.
Boutique Shopping & Markets
Both Tauranga and Mount Maunganui have it all with outdoor fun and shopping. Because everything is close in proximity, you can easily pop back and forth from the beach to shopping. Mount Manuganui has the popular Bayfair Shopping Centre, one of the largest on the North Island. Tauranga is well known for its unique boutique shopping, with more than 300 boutiques and shopping centres. In Tauranga I bought fun upbeat styles and my practical yet gorgeous Merino wool sweaters that I wore for years. Additionally, there are numerous local markets, such as, The Little Big Markets, Night Gourmet Markets and the Saturday’s Farmer’s Market.
Related: New Zealand’s Colorful Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
Overall…
Besides being an awesome destination in itself, Tauranga and Mauao are also a good hub for the Bay of Plenty Region. There is an awesome campground at Mount Maunganui, plus, numerous hotels in the area. From Tauranga, there are nearby attractions, for example, Rotorua, Whale Island, Te Puke for Kiwi and Hobbiton Movie Tours. So, whatever you do here, give yourself plenty of time for the Bay of Plenty Region.
