Sights & Activities
Unforgettable Sights
Mauao (Mt Maunganui) – undeniably the major landmark of the Tauranga region.
White Island – 50 km offshore is New Zealand’s only active marine volcano.
Adrenaline-Rush
Blokarting – try racing down a long beach on a land-based sail craft (www.blokart.com).
Whitewater rafting – the Wairoa River is said to offer some of the best falls and rafting anywhere in New Zealand (
www.wetnwildrafting.co.nz ).
Relax & Indulge
Mt Maunganui Hot Salt Water Pools – indulge by soaking in soothing salt water warmed to 39ºC (
www.bayofplentynz.com). Enjoy the stunning white sand beaches sweeping down the coast from Waihi Beach to Maketu.
Top picks
Culture
Paparoa Marae – experience Maori culture first-hand with a visit to Paparoa Marae (
www.bayofplentynz.com ).
Luxury
Ridge Country Retreat, Tauranga – stay overnight to relax and unwind in sumptuous surroundings and indulge in gourmet fare (
www.rcr.co.nz ).
Inexpensive or free
Mauao (Mt Maunganui) – explore on foot the base and summit walking tracks of this iconic mountain in the resort town of Mt Maunganui.
Culinary experiences
Kiwifruit – sample the famous fruit and visit Kiwi 360 in Te Puke for a unique insight into their production (
www.kiwi360.com ).
Exclusive dining
Astrolabe Restaurant Café & Bar, Mt Maunganui – iconic restaurant offering award-winning food and modern style (
www.astrolabe.co.nz ).
Casual Dining
Navigator, Papamoa – here you’ll find a relaxing and family-friendly atmosphere with indoor and outdoor dining (
www.bayofplentynz.com ).
Café
Bravo Café, Tauranga – enjoy great coffee and an eclectic menu including wood-fired pizza (ww.cafebravo.co.nz ).
Swishy Bar
Home Bar, Tauranga – stop by for a drink and make yourself at home (t. +64 7 578 6828).
Cosy Pub
Cornerstone Pub, Tauranga –a distinct European theme in a relaxed, upmarket atmosphere and enjoy your meal alfresco or inside by a cosy fireplace (t. +64 7 928 1120).
Shop or gallery
Rolling Cloud Pottery and Gallery, Katikati – pick up a piece of local art as a memento of your travels.
