10 April 2026. Our region is preparing for the arrival of Cyclone Vaianu this Sunday.
Please keep an eye on RNZ, BOPCD, TCC or WBOPDC and be prepared to adjust your travel plans, if necessary.

School holidays sorted!

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

Toby at Puketoki IMG 8851

1. Take a bush walk at Puketoki Reserve. This beautiful pocket of native forest offers two safe and easy loop tracks, both of which are family and dog friendly. Expect stunning birdlife, fresh forest air and stream-side picnic spots.

2. Treat the kids to the iconic Copenhagen Cones in Mount Maunganui. Think waffle cones, whipped cream and all the toppings.

3. Cruise sparkling Tauranga Harbour aboard the iconic Kewpie – kids under 12 travel free!

4. Explore the revamped Tauranga waterfront and playground. Pack your togs for a splash at the new swim pontoon or manu platform.

Waimarino Adventure Park Mothers Nightmare

5. Enjoy an action-packed day at Waimarino Adventure Park. Pack a picnic and settle in for a full day of fun on the water.

6. Visit the Ōmokoroa Domain playground and go crab hunting in the harbour.

7. Take part in an exhibition-inspired workshop for tamariki at Toi Tauranga Art Gallery.

8. Explore by bike. With trails through winding boardwalks and native bush, there's plenty of kid-friendly cycle trails to enjoy across Tauranga and the Western Bay. 

Waikareao Estuay bike March 2026

9. Explore our big blue backyard and see dolphins and wildlife up close. Read more about local dolphin and wildlife excursions.

10. Experience virtual reality at The Cave, an immersive paradise for gaming, VR and old school arcade games.

11. Visit Classic Flyers Historic Aviation Museum — a captivating morning out for the whole family. Check out their website for some special school holiday activities.

12. Take a surf lesson while the water's still warm. Check out our epic local surf schools.

Sam at Classic Flyers IMG 6234

13. Explore Hopukiore (Mount Drury) and neighbouring Moturiki (Leisure Island) in Mount Maunganui.

14. Experience the wonder of McLaren Falls Park and visit Marshalls Animal Park.

15. Hike the Waihī Beach Trig track. The 3km trail to the lookout offers stunning views of the coast.

16. Scooter or skate the Marine Parade coastal pathway. With playgrounds and ice cream stops along the way, it’s the perfect adventure for the whole family. 

yomi bowls image

17. Equal parts healthy and indulgent, enjoy a frozen yoghurt or acai bowl loaded with tasty treats at Yomi in Mount Maunganui.

18. Wander Te Puna Quarry Park and experience the colourful and unique sculptures and gardens.

19. Saddle up for a horse trek at stunning Pukehina Beach.

20. Visit candy store Sugar & Spice at The Historic Village for a sweet treat.

Historic Village IMG 6316

For more family fun, check out other local activities, visit What's On Tauranga and download the Explore Bay of Plenty app for special deals.

Check out the range of family friendly accomodation options.

 

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