Located in the Bay of Plenty on the northern shore of the Tauranga Harbour, Mount Maunganui, or Mauao (Maori for mountain of the breeze) is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The dormant volcano cone is the central point for a myriad of activities and attractions, offering stunning views and amazing experiences to everyone who visits.
Mount Maunganui is a stunning natural landmark, and is the most iconic feature of the Bay of Plenty. It is surrounded by stunning beaches, lush parks and gardens, and the bustling town of Mount Maunganui. With the dramatic backdrop of the harbour and the ocean, the Mt Maunganui skyline is one of the most beautiful in all of New Zealand.
Adventures on Mount Maunganui
Mount Maunganui has a reputation as an exciting place for adventure seekers. It boasts a variety of activities and attractions, such as hot air ballooning, hiking, biking and much more. With its stunning views, invigorating walks and adventures, Mount Maunganui is the perfect place for the outdoor enthusiast.
One of the most popular activities is the ‘Mauao’ summit walk. This is a 4.2 km loop track up to the peak of the mountain. The track is made up of stairs and steps, allowing for a challenging and rewarding trek for any level of fitness. From the summit, you can enjoy spectacular views of the harbor, ocean and city stretching out before you. There are also some other smaller tracks and trails with more easy-going ascents and descents.
Hiking on Mount Maunganui
Mount Maunganui is a great destination for hiking enthusiasts. There are both easy and challenging hikes, suitable for all levels of experience, each offering a unique experience. Whether you’re up for an easy stroll or a full-day hike, there’s something for everyone.
The Pohutukawa route is a great option for anyone looking to explore the mountain. This track is 6 km long and takes around 2-3 hours to complete. It’s a great way to experience the mountain and its surroundings as it follows the shoreline and passes through lush vegetation. The track also provides stunning views of Tauranga harbour and out to Matakana Island.
The Summit track is the most popular route and is suitable for those wanting to experience the highest point of the mountain. This track takes around 1.5 hours to complete and is worth the effort for the incredible views from the summit.
Activities for Everyone
No matter what your interests are, there’s something for everyone on Mount Maunganui. From swimming, surfing and kayaking in the ocean to stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking and kitesurfing in the harbor, you’ll find plenty of exciting activities here.
The beach is the perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun. There are plenty of picnicking spots and shady areas to enjoy a meal and a few drinks, or you can explore the coastal path and take in the stunning views. The town of Mount Maunganui also has a range of cafes, restaurants, and shops, making it the perfect spot to spend a day.
The Reserve is a great spot for bird watchers, with a fantastic native bird park. You can take a leisurely stroll and observe the birds in their natural habitat, or join a guided tour to learn more about the different bird species.
Experience Mount Maunganui
Mount Maunganui is a truly unique destination and is a must-visit for all New Zealanders. Whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, to explore the town’s attractions or just take in the stunning views, Mount Maunganui has something for everyone.
Here are some of the must-do activities and attractions when visiting Mount Maunganui:
- Mauao Summit Track: Enjoy spectacular views from the summit of the mountain.
- Pohutukawa Track: Explore the mountain and its surroundings with a 6 km track.
- Maunganui Reserve: Visit the native bird park and take a leisurely stroll.
- Beach Activities: Relax on the beach, go kayaking or try stand-up paddle boarding.
- Town Attractions: Explore the cafes, restaurants and shops of Mount Maunganui.
Mount Maunganui is a stunning destination and an absolute must visit when in New Zealand. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that Mount Maunganui is one of the country’s most popular destinations.