LET'S HAVE SOME FUN

The Bay of Plenty has long been a favourite holiday destination for Kiwi families, and with over 125 kilometres of coastline and some of the best beaches in New Zealand, it’s easy to see why.

But there’s more to the Bay of Plenty than just our amazing beaches. Read on to find out about some of the other amazing activities in the Bay. It’s sure to make you smile!

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1. LEARN TO SURF OR SUP

There’s no better time to learn the basics of surfing or stand-up-paddle boarding; our safe beaches and gentle swells provide the perfect conditions for learner surfers. Book a lesson with one of the many surf schools dotted along the coast. You’ll be “hanging 10” in no time! 

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2. CLIMB TO THE TOP OF MAUAO

Did it even happen if you didn’t ‘gram it? The iconic view from the summit of Mauao (Mount Maunganui) is one of the most instagrammed spots in New Zealand and is well worth the short (but steep!) walk to the top.

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3. EXPLORE THE REGION BY BIKE

From meandering coastal and riverside trails to adrenalin-pumping mountain biking through a forest, the Coastal Bay of Plenty has an ever-expanding network of epic places to ride your bike.

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4. DISCOVER SOME OF THE BAY'S HIDDEN FOODIE GEMS

Take a tour with Taste of Plenty and uncover some epic local foodie experiences; from ice cream, snags and honey, to locally brewed cider, wines and plenty more.

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5. DISCOVER THE CULTURE

The Bay of Plenty is steeped in history and culture – spend a day exploring. You’ll be surprised by what you might find!

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6. EXPLORE OUR BIG BLUE BACKYARD

Get up close to our amazing marine wildlife – it’s an unforgettable experience! Head out on a boat tour with Dolphin Seafaris or Bay Explorer and get prepared to be amazed.

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7. BREWS BY THE BEACH

Spend an afternoon sampling delicious Bay of Plenty craft beer with Brewbus. They'll drive you and your friends around the best breweries and bars where you'll learn about the brewing process, and taste a few brews too.

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8. SOAK IN A THERMAL HOT POOL

There’s nothing more relaxing than soaking in a thermal hot pool. No matter where along our coastline you’re staying, there’ll be a hot pool within easy reach.

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9. TAKE TO THE SKIES

Time to tick something off the bucket list! Adventure Helicopters offers a range of scenic flights including the Mount Magic flight which takes you up and around, yep, you guessed it, Mount Maunganui.

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10. EXPLORE AN ECO-SANCTUARY

Located just off the coast of Whakatāne is Moutohorā (Whale Island) - a pest-free oasis that is home to many native New Zealand birds, reptiles and plants. Moutohorā: Island Sanctuary, KG Kayaks and Diveworks all have a DoC concession to land on the island.