The beautiful City of Tauranga and it’s close neighbour Mt Maunganui offer a brilliant combination of beach adventures and urban lifestyle. The bays and beaches of Tauranga’s natural harbour are nestled within a peaceful and sheltered inlet, stretching all the way from Waihi beach down to the thriving port of Tauranga itself. Cruise liners and cargo ships line the wharves and two large marinas house over 1000 yachts and launches. Step on board one of the many charter boats for a deep sea game fishing adventure which travel regularly to Mayor Island and White Island. Get up close with the local dolphins, on a good day you can even swim with them.

Tauranga and Mount Maunganui are joined by the umbilical chord of the Tauranga harbour bridge, almost connecting them as one. Guarding the entrance to the harbour is magnificent Mt Maunganui (Mauao). Mauao’s base track is a picturesque 3.4km walk offering fabulous views of the shoreline, from remote beaches to rocky outcrops. A 1.5km hike to the summit is well worth the effort for a panoramic view 360 degree view. Take a break and watch the constant fleet of ships and boats come in and out of the harbour.

After your walk take time out for a relaxing soak at the Mt Maunganui hot pools nestled right at the base of Mauao. Cafes and restaurants line the pristine white sand surf beach and the township itself is full of craft shops and funky bars. Go for a swim in the surf or catch a wave or two while you are there. Both Tauranga and Mount Maunganui have a wide range of accommodation from stunning apartments to comfortable motels.

The City of Tauranga is a pretty mix of gardens and undulating urban streets. Browse the designer stores of the business district and take a stroll down to the hub of Tauranga’s Waterfront Strand to check out a huge array of cafes, bars and resataurants. Visit the award winning Fresh fish market on Diive Crescent for some of the country’s freshest, tastiest fish and chips.

If you’re craving excitement, experience the thrill of a 30 minute adrenalin pumping jet boat ride on the spectacular Kaituna River. Skydiving, parasailing and white water rafting are popular pastimes combining a rush with some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in the country. Explore the water on a guided kayaking trip on Tauranga harbour, Wairoa river or photogenic Lake McLaren. Mountain bike through the Oropi Gorge- a hair raising adventure for thrill seekers. Pack a hamper and find a picnic spot at Kaiate falls in Welcome Bay, a tranquil native bush reserve peppered with a series of stunning waterfalls. Spend some time at McLaren Falls, 170 hectares of lake land reserve, absolutely stunning in all seasons with a melting pot of natives and exotics. On the way home discover sumptuous wines at award winning Mills Reef winery.

The ranges behind the City are perfect for abseiling, horse treks and hunting. Deer and wild pigs frequent the forested hills.

Tauranga , meaning safe harbour, is blessed with a temperate climate and it’s sheltered position attracts a growing number of visitors and residents every year. A number of popular events and festivals draw people from far and wide. Cinema and live theatre provide superb entertainment. There are plenty of venues and conference facilities available as well as a huge variety of pubs, bars and nightclubs available for a social night on the town.

Tauranga hotels

Tauranga