Bay of Plenty
New Zealand

Nestled on the eastern side of New Zealand’s North Island, our Coastal Bay of Plenty region has stunning beaches, a vibrant city, charming towns, and an exciting array of activities and events.

Discover
the Bay of plenty
Anytime, any Way

Explore our history and culture, connect with our people, and savour our unique flavours.There’s always something happening - let’s plan your next adventure!

Explore

Athenree estuary pathway on the Trig to Anzac Bay cycleway 2

Plan your
adventure

PLACES
TO VISIT

Experience Matariki

Where are we?

The Coastal Bay of Plenty stretches from Waihī Beach to Pukehina on the North Island's East Coast. At its heart is Tauranga, a vibrant harbour-side city with some of the country's best beaches right on its doorstep.

Driving here is easy, and Tauranga Airport has direct flights from Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch if you'd rather skip the road trip.

drive times from tauranga to:

Auckland 2hr 45 min
Hamilton 1hr 30 min
Rotorua 1hr

BOP location map

Events

See what's coming up across the Coastal Bay of Plenty.

Annual events

WHAT'S ON
TAURANGA

Winter Events Guide

1969, A Moon Landing
- Thu 11 Jun, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
- 38 Durham Street, Tauranga, Bay of Plenty
‘1969: A Moon Landing', written by ex- ACG Parnell student, Sam McKillen, takes a fascinating look at one of history's most famous moments. It follows a perfectionist film director, Stanley, who is se…
Leigh Barbosa & Graham Young
- Fri 12 Jun, 9:00am - 3:00pm
- The Arts Junction,36 Main Road, Katikati 3129, Katikati, Bay of Plenty
Now showing at the Carlton Gallery, a beautiful new exhibition celebrating colour, craft, and the stories that shape us. 18th May to 14th June.

We’re proud to present new work by Graham Young and Lei…
Coming Undone - Ceramics by Jo Harris
- Fri 12 Jun, 10:00am - 3:00pm
- The Incubator Creative Hub, The Historic Village, 17th Avenue, Tauranga South, Tauranga, Bay of Plenty
This exhibition delves into the complex and often conflicting relationship between the inner psychological worlds of women and the roles that society continues to impose upon them. It examines how ide…
Drift an Exhibition by Damien Kurth
- Fri 12 Jun, 10:00am - 3:00pm
- The Incubator Creative Hub, The Historic Village, 17th Avenue, Tauranga, Bay of Plenty
Fresh off the easel – a selection of Damien's latest works.

Working mostly in oils, Kurth creates incredibly detailed 'trompe l'oeil' works that feel like tricks of the eye. He paints everyday object…
Waltz of My Heart
- Fri 12 Jun, 11:00am - 12:45pm
- 215 Devonport Rd, Tauranga, Bay of Plenty
Step into a world of sweeping melodies, soaring voices, and the graceful rhythm of the waltz in this unforgettable concert Waltz of My Heart, a celebration of one of the most beloved musical forms in …
Kerryn Fields
- Fri 12 Jun, 7:00pm - 10:00pm
- The Incubator Creative Hub, The Historic Village, 17th Avenue, Tauranga, Bay of Plenty
Kerryn Fields returns to the Jam Factory, with her band this time!! Her last show sold out, so be quick to get your ticket.

A multi-award-winning musician, broadcaster, and widely adored storyteller,…
Papamoa Comedy Club
- Fri 12 Jun, 8:00pm
- 4 Golden Sands Dr, Papamoa, Mt Maunganui, Bay of Plenty
The monthly stand-up takeover is back at Luxe Cinemas on Friday June 12th at 8pm, bringing a fresh lineup of sharp, hilarious comedians to the big screen (minus the movie, plus way more bad decisions)…
The Little Big Markets Tauranga Waterfront
- Sun 14 Jun, 9:00am - 2:00pm
- 1 The Strand, Tauranga, Bay of Plenty
The Little Big Markets – Tauranga Waterfront

We’re bringing the magic of The Little Big Markets to the other side of the bridge!

Join us once a month from 10am–2pm along the beautiful Tauranga water…
Truffle Hunts
- Sun 14 Jun, 10:00am - 12:00pm
- 298 Maungarangi Road, Paengaroa, Te Puke, Bay of Plenty
Join us for an unforgettable winter experience at Trufflewood, where the magic of black Périgord truffles comes to life beneath the soil.

Begin with a warm welcome and a short introduction to how the…
Young Stars of Jazz
- Sun 14 Jun, 3:00pm - 4:15pm
- 38 Durham Street, Tauranga, Bay of Plenty
Showcasing senior vocalists from Carol Power Voice Studio with the TJS Quartet.

Experience these talented young singers performing sophisticated jazz – from sultry bossa nova and smooth swing to hear…
Stage to Screen
- Tue 16 Jun, 2:00pm - 3:10pm
- 38 Durham Street, Tauranga, Bay of Plenty
Coming to a Baycourt near you!

Our nearly 100-year-old Mighty Wurli steps into the spotlight for its next musical blockbuster that blends the thrill of live theatre with the glamour of cinema.

Starr…
Quiz Night
- Tue 16 Jun, 6:30pm - 8:30pm
- 3/59 The Strand, Tauranga, Bay of Plenty
Come join us for the new weekly ritual on a Tuesday night!

You and your crew will negotiate five rounds of amazing trivia with Gee Quiz! Your team's street cred, life smarts and common sense will go …
A Winter Series: An Introduction to Art History
- Wed 17 Jun, 5:30pm - 7:00pm
- 108 Willow Street, Tauranga, Bay of Plenty
Dr. Penelope Jackson is back this winter for her four-part introduction to art history lecture series, An Introduction to Art History, on Wednesdays, 10 Jun–1 Jul 2026, 5.30–7.00pm.

Ticket price is f…
Stand-up Comedy Open Mic
- Wed 17 Jun, 7:30pm
- 12 Wharf St, Tauranga, Bay of Plenty
Join us at the back of the Hop House for a cheap night of laughs on the third Wednesday of every month at 7:30p. For $5 come and have your funny bones tickled with our hilarious live comedy or feel fr…
The Little Big Markets Winter Season
- Sat 20 Jun, 9:00am - 2:00pm
- Maunganui Road, Mt Maunganui, Bay of Plenty
Join us for a sun-soaked day at Coronation Park, Mount Maunganui from 9am–2pm, as we kick off another season celebrating our community!

Wander through a vibrant lineup of local talent, from artisan m…
Pāpāmoa Polar Plunge
- Sun 21 Jun, 10:00am - 1:30pm
- Papamoa Beach Road, Tauranga, Bay of Plenty
Get ready, Pāpāmoa ... the Polar Plunge is back.

Winter’s boldest beach tradition returns, inviting our community to come together for one unforgettable day of icy courage, colour, and connection at …
ABBA: Thank You for The Music
- Tue 23 Jun, 7:30pm - 9:45pm
- 38 Durham Street, Tauranga, Bay of Plenty
Get ready to say “Thank you for the Music”.

Don't miss this 2-hour spectacular live concert that will take you through the songs, the life and magic that made ABBA one of the most successful bands of…
Whakairo & Raranga Demonstrations
- Wed 24 Jun, 10:00am - 2:00pm
- 32 Main Rd, Katikati, Bay of Plenty
Experience the living traditions of Rāranga (weaving) and Whakairo (carving) as part of the Toki Exhibition at the Western Bay Museum.

This special live showcase brings together skilled makers demons…
Unexpected Heroes
- Fri 26 Jun, 10:00am - 4:00pm
- 32 Main Rd, Katikati, Bay of Plenty
Unexpected heroes

March - July 30th, 2026. Free Entry

Step into the powerful and immersive world of Unexpected Heroes at Western Bay Museum in Katikati — a moving exhibition that brings New Zealand…
Toki: the Edge of Tradition
- Fri 26 Jun, 10:00am - 4:00pm
- 32 Main Rd, Katikati, Bay of Plenty
Toki: The edge of tradition

March - July 30th, 2026. Free Entry

Discover one of the most unique cultural experiences in the Bay of Plenty at Western Bay Museum in Katikati. Toki: The Edge of Tradit…
Smokefreerockquest Bay Of Plenty Final
- Fri 26 Jun, 7:00pm
- 11 Totara St, Mt Maunganui, Bay of Plenty
The Bay of Plenty Regional Final of Smokefreerockquest, New Zealand's nationwide, live, original music, youth event giving young musicians the opportunity to perform live in a professional setting, in…
Craft Destash Market
- Sat 27 Jun, 10:00am - 2:00pm
- 334 Omokoroa Road, Tauranga, Bay of Plenty
This event brings together makers, hobbyists, and long‑time crafters who are ready to pass on quality supplies they no longer need — giving others the chance to discover new materials, inspiration, an…
Matariki for Tamariki
- Tue 30 Jun, 6:00pm
- 38 Durham Street, Tauranga, Bay of Plenty
This Matariki, step into a fun-filled adventure for the whole whānau!

The New Zealand Dance Company (NZDC) and Baycourt present Matariki for Tamariki, a joyful celebration for tamariki of all ages.

…
University of Waikato Tauranga Campus Open Day
- Wed 1 Jul, 10:00am - 1:00pm
- 101 Durham Street, Tauranga, Bay of Plenty
Attending an Open Day is the best way to see what the University of Waikato has to offer and to start planning your next steps after secondary school. Visit our beautiful campuses to learn about study…

Stories from around The Bay

A winter getaway in the Bay

With crisp, clear days and mild temperatures, the Bay of Plenty is the perfect destination to slow down, recharge and reconnect over the cooler months. This is your sign to recharge with a winter escape.

48 hours in Mount Maunganui

With it’s buzzing mainstreet, stunning seaside paths and unforgettable dining, it’s easy to spend the weekend soaking up the beachside vibes of Mount Maunganui. From first light to last bite, we’ve put together a list of must-do's to fill a weekend or weekday escape in this seaside paradise.

Indoor golf in the Bay of Plenty

More golfers are teeing off in the Bay of Plenty than ever before — thanks to our region's mild climate, epic coastal courses, and a growing love for the game. But when the weather isn't on your side, there’s no need to skip a round. The Bay is home to some awesome indoor golf simulators where you can play world-class courses, practice your swing, or just have a good time with mates — rain or shine. Whether you're a serious golfer or just in it for fun, here’s where to tee off indoors.

The Battle of Pukehinahina (Gate Pā)

The Land Wars of the mid-nineteenth century rocked Aotearoa New Zealand and led to massive Māori land confiscations by the British. Two significant battles took place in Tauranga – The Battle of Pukehinahina (Gate Pā) and the Battle of Te Ranga. Both battlefields are still able to be visited today.

Relaxation & wellness in Pāpāmoa

It’s easy to neglect our own wellness and self-care routines – fortunately Pāpāmoa has some beautiful ways to unwind and recharge. Check out some of our top picks for how you can recharge your batteries!

Kaimoana

The Bay of Plenty is a region aptly named for its abundance of kai (food), especially the treasures harvested from our bountiful moana (ocean). Here, where the land meets the sea, you'll discover why our waters are renowned for their seafood riches. Join us as we explore the best seafood experiences our region has to offer, from hands-on fishing adventures to waterfront fish and chips and dining options that showcase the ocean's bounty.

The Elms | Te Papa Tauranga

Sitting on a hill overlooking the restaurants and cafés above Tauranga’s CBD, is one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s oldest heritage sites.

20 ways to spend the school holidays

There’s plenty to keep the kids busy if you’re visiting the Coastal Bay of Plenty these school holidays.

Best burgers in the Bay

We put it to locals to ask them where to find the best burgers in the Bay! Check out some of the top picks below…

Spend the day in Waihī Beach

Whether it’s a weekend escape or a relaxed day out at the beach, Waihī Beach offers the perfect balance of coastal charm, natural beauty, and must-visit destinations. From beachfront dining to hidden beaches, here are ten ways to make the most of this seaside paradise.

The Historic Village

Just minutes from Tauranga City Centre, The Historic Village is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Bay of Plenty. Set among colourful historic buildings and replicas, this vibrant precinct is full of character, creativity and community. With boutique shops, galleries, artist studios, eateries and event spaces, it’s a place to discover, connect and be inspired.

Work-beach balance

Those seeking a spot to drop anchor and keep the productivity flowing will find a digital nomad’s haven in the Bay of Plenty. Here you’ll find just the right mix of white-sand coast, lush forest hikes with rushing waterfalls, foodie hotspots, and a relaxed, innovative city full of cool and quirky locals happy to share their freelance lifestyle with you. It’s no wonder New Zealand was recently ranked the #1 country in the world for work-life balance — and in the Bay of Plenty, you’ll see exactly why. For more information, Work Life Tauranga is your go-to…