A seafood lover’s paradise!
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.
GET HANDS-ON!
CATCH AND COOK WITH MUIRS TOURS
Explore the Bay of Plenty's seafood treasures with Muirs Tours, led by ex-Māori All Black Deon Muir. His immersive adventures offer guided ocean fishing excursions where you'll catch your own kaimoana (seafood). Learn various fishing techniques while absorbing local knowledge. After your catch, enjoy a cookout experience at Deon's home in Maketū, savouring the fruits of your labour while experiencing authentic Māori hospitality.
SHUCK YOUR OWN OYSTERS WITH TIO ŌHIWA
Discover Tio Ōhiwa, a Māori-owned oyster farm nestled on Ōhiwa Harbour. Embark on their cultural cruise to uncover the harbour's rich heritage, master the art of oyster shucking, and taste the ocean's bounty at their factory and fish and chip shop.
JUMP ABOARD THE FLOATING ISLAND
Embark on an unforgettable journey aboard The Floating Island. Skipper Charles guides you through New Zealand's premier fishing grounds, offering diverse experiences from crayfish scuba diving to deep-sea fishing. Explore local islands, relax on pristine beaches, and indulge in a delicious lunch cooked onboard by Charles who is also a fantastic chef. This adventure seamlessly blends thrilling marine activities with gourmet dining on the waves.
FISH AND CHIPS ON THE WATER'S EDGE
BOBBY'S FRESH FISH MARKET
For a classic scoop of chips and freshly caught fish, head straight to Bobby's Fresh Fish Market on the waterfront in Tauranga.
This is one of our region's most popular spots for fish and chips — try it out for yourself to see why.
GIBBO'S ON THE WHARF
Situated right on the wharf in Whakatāne, Gibbo's serve the freshest of seafood and fish & chips. Taste their unique crumbed fish, which seals the fish and steams it from the inside. Make sure you berth yourself at Gibbo's on The Wharf for the freshest seafood and delicious fish and chips.
PILOT BAY FISH & CHIPS
Indulge in the quintessential Kiwi experience at Pilot Bay Fish & Chips. Tuck in to perfectly crisp, locally-caught fish while basking in breathtaking views of Mauao and the harbour from Pilot Bay. As the sun dips below the horizon, watch cruise ships glide by in season. A must-visit spot for an unforgettable picnic with loved ones.
TIO ŌHIWA
No journey through the Eastern Region is complete without a stop at the iconic Tio Ōhiwa Oyster Farm. Perched on the edge of a working oyster farm, it's a seafood lover's paradise. Watch skilled hands shuck oysters mere feet away as you taste some of the Bay's finest fish and chips. The ultra-fresh oysters, of course, are not to be missed.
BAYPACKERS DIRECT FISH SHOP
Although not on the water's edge, Baypackers Direct is worth the mention as it's the place locals go to shop for a huge variety of fresh fish. Their menu changes daily depending on what the fishermen bring in – but you’re likely to find snapper, gurnard, tarahiki, trevally, monkfish, John Dory, tuna, salmon, moonfish, or scallops in the mix. They also smoke some of their fish to perfection if you’re planning on making a grazing platter or a scrummy fish pie. Make sure to check out the Baypackers Lunchbox for fresh fish and chips too!
ELEVATED DINING EXPERIENCES
FISHERMAN'S WHARF
Fisherman's Wharf at Port Ōhope offers a great dining experience. Relax on the spacious deck, enjoying stellar harbour views while indulging in fresh seafood or perfect steaks. Don't miss the fish tacos. For a more casual option, you can grab takeaway fish and chips from their outdoor window.
FLATWHITE
At Waihī Beach, Flatwhite Café is one of the few beachfront dining experiences in the Bay of Plenty. For nearly two decades, this local icon has served an array of seafood delights along side their extensive menu. Enjoy stunning ocean views stretching to Tuhua (Mayor) Island while savouring fresh coastal cuisine.
HARBOURSIDE
Harbourside, a Tauranga favorite, offers fine dining with stunning harbour views. Known for its artful menus and varied portion sizes, it serves exquisite seafood and locally-sourced meats. Don't miss their beer-battered fish and chips that's plucked right from the harbour or the Szechuan peppered fried squid.
SALTWATER
Saltwater is one of Mount Maunganui’s hottest seafood spots, which uses the freshest seafood from around Aotearoa. Watch the chefs in action as they shuck oysters, slice fresh sashimi, and grill whole flounder. Enjoy your fresh catch with one of their superb cocktails from their extensive drinks menu.