Tauranga is one of the fastest-growing cities in New Zealand, situated on the east coast of the North Island. It’s home to a bustling harbour, beautiful beaches, and plenty of great attractions. Whether you’re here for a day trip or a longer holiday, there are lots of great activities to enjoy. Here’s a look at some of the must-visit places in Tauranga.
Mount Maunganui
Mount Maunganui is one of the most popular destinations in Tauranga, and for good reason. With white sand beaches, hot saltwater pools, and plenty of great restaurants, cafes and bars, it’s the perfect place to spend the day. The main beach, Pilot Bay, is the perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities. There’s also a walkway around the base of the mountain to enjoy, with stunning views of the harbour.
Katikati
Katikati is a small town situated just south of Tauranga, and it’s also well worth a visit. It’s known as the murals town, as the walls of local buildings are covered with colourful works of art. From historic maori stories to iconic pop culture figures, there are plenty of murals to explore. There’s also lots of great cafes, restaurants and galleries in the town, making it an ideal place to take a break during your travels.
Tauranga Art Gallery
Tauranga Art Gallery is the city’s premier art space, featuring a range of permanent and rotating exhibitions and events. With works by local and international artists, it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon. They also have an excellent collection of paintings, sculptures, prints, photographs and more. And the best part is that entry is free!
Kaimai-Mamaku Forest Park
Kaimai-Mamaku Forest Park is just a short drive from Tauranga, and it’s one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural attractions. The park is full of native bush, with plenty of scenic walking and biking trails to explore. There are also a range of waterfalls, streams, and lakes to discover. And the best part is that you get the whole place to yourself!
Omokoroa Peninsula
Omokoroa Peninsula is a stunning coastal area to the north of Tauranga. It’s home to some of the best beaches in the area, with crystal clear waters, white sand, and plenty of wildlife. You can also explore the nearby Kiwi 360 Adventure Park, and spot some of the native wildlife. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a boat trip out to the nearby Motiti Island.
Tauranga Harbour and Marine Reserve
The Tauranga Harbour and Marine Reserve offers plenty of amazing attractions. Spend some time relaxing on the sandy beaches and exploring the mangroves, or go for a swim in the crystal clear waters. There’s also plenty of great fishing spots, and you’ll get the chance to spot some dolphins and other sea creatures as well.
The Elms Mission Station
The Elms Mission Station is one of the oldest heritage sites in New Zealand. It was founded in the late 1800s and is still operational today. It’s a great place to learn about the history of the area, and you can take a guided tour of the buildings and grounds. There’s also a café and souvenir shop on site.
Tauranga’s Waterfront
Tauranga’s waterfront is the perfect spot to spend some time. With a bustling harbour, beautiful views and plenty of restaurants, cafes and shops to explore, it’s the perfect place to go for a stroll. The waterfront also features some great art installations, a interactive sculpture walk, and a lighthouse.
National Aquarium of New Zealand
The National Aquarium of New Zealand is home to more than 150 species of marine life from around the world. From sharks and seals to rays and tropical fish, there’s plenty to discover. There are also regular talks and feeding demonstrations, so you can learn more about the animals and their habitats.
Kopeopeo Canal
The Kopeopeo Canal is one of Tauranga’s most popular attractions. With its tranquil waters and lush native bush, it’s the perfect place to go for a peaceful stroll or bike ride. There are also plenty of bird-watching spots, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled.
Must-have experiences in Tauranga
- Surfing – Tauranga is home to some of New Zealand’s best surfing spots.
- Kayaking – Take a kayaking trip around the harbour for stunning views.
- Whale watching – Get up close and personal with some of nature’s most majestic creatures.
- Dolphin swimming – Swim with the dolphins in the wild within Tauranga.
- Skydiving – Get an adrenaline rush by skydiving with some of New Zealand’s top instructors.
The best time to visit Tauranga
Tauranga is a great destination any time of year. In the summer months it’s warm and sunny, so it’s ideal for beach holidays. In winter, the temperatures are cooler, so it’s a great time to explore the city’s cultural attractions. No matter when you visit, you’re sure to find plenty of great things to do in Tauranga.