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Highlights
New Zealand's best short walk, hidden gems, art, beaches, forests, markets & more!
WALK THE MAUAO BASE TRACK
Mauao (Mount Maunganui) access and walking tracks are currently closed due to the weather event of 21 January 2026. For more information refer to Tauranga City Council here
We guessed it! The coastal base track of Mauao is your number one must-do activity in the Bay of Plenty. A relatively easy walk, the base track is approximately 3.5 kilometres in length. It's not uncommon to see playful seals in the shallows or sunning themselves on the rocks, and if you're really lucky, you might even spot a pod of orca enjoying Tauranga Moana! And once you're done, go for a dip at the Mount Hot Pools, or grab a bite to eat and a drink at one of the many cafés and restaurants in the Mount.
14-21 Adams Avenue, Mount Maunganui 3116
EXPLORE MCLAREN FALLS PARK
One of our favourite local gems, McLaren Falls is a popular spot for bushwalks, picnics, fishing and kayaking. Enjoy a short, easy stroll to the picturesque waterfall and spot the glow worms on either side of the track after dark. Grab a hot chocolate at the Falls Café to sweeten the adventure!
190 McLaren Falls Road, Omanawa 3171
CITY ART WALK
There's plenty of street art to be admired around the city: why not spend an afternoon seeking out new murals in our city hub?
Online
PĀPĀMOA HILLS REGIONAL PARK
Pāpāmoa Hills Cultural Heritage Regional Park will be closed until further notice due to extensive slips and flooding. For more information refer to Bay of Plenty Regional Council's website here
The Pāpāmoa Hills Regional Park is a hiker’s paradise. Explore the park’s cultural heritage and walk around former pā sites, or challenge yourself to reach the 224-metre high summit and enjoy breathtaking views.
58B Poplar Lane, Pāpāmoa 3187
WAIHĪ BEACH AND OROKAWA BAY
To experience pure paradise, follow the well-marked track over the headland at Waihī Beach to Orokawa Bay. Soak up spectacular ocean views along the 45-minute walkway and enjoy a picnic on the sand under pōhutukawa trees when you arrive. Orokawa Bay is also a fantastic place to swim, surf and fish, making it an ideal day-trip for all ages.
Ocean View Road, Waihi Beach 3611
DISCOVER TE PUNA QUARRY PARK
There is something for everyone at Te Puna Quarry Park to enjoy: picnic lawns, panoramic views, sculptures, bush walks, butterfly house, specialised gardens, and more.
110 Te Puna Quarry Road, RD 7, Te Puna 3179
EXPLORE ŌTANEWAINUKU FOREST
With three family-friendly walking tracks to choose from and a beautiful waterfall immersed in towering native trees and birdlife, Ōtanewainuku Forest is a peaceful and refreshing place to recharge. This treasured conservation area is home to the North Island brown kiwi and a growing number of endangered kōkako, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Ōtanewainuku Kiwi Trust volunteers who care for the area.
Mountain Road, Oropi
CHECK OUT THE LOCAL ARTISAN MARKETS
Keep an eye on our markets page for information about farmer's, food and craft markets. There are plenty to choose from. The Little Big Markets are a must, featuring local arts, crafts and delicious food.
Coronation Road, Mount Maunganui 3116
A WALK TO SEE THE BLOWHOLE ON MOTURIKI (LEISURE) ISLAND
You won’t find an island more accessible than Moturiki. It’ll take you between five and 10 minutes to reach the blowhole from Mount Maunganui’s main beach. Follow the well-marked track up the gentle slopes and scramble over the rocks at the top for the best vantage point. Just make sure you choose a spot where you’ll be safe from rogue waves and high seas!
Marine Parade, Tauranga 3116
SPEND AN AFTERNOON ON THE TAURANGA WATERFRONT
Our harbourfront has never looked better! Grab a coffee from one of the amazing cafés, have some fun at the waterfront playground and visit Hairy Maclary and Friends. When the water's warmer, have a go at traditional Kiwi 'bombs' from the purpose-built platform on the wharf.
The Strand, Tauranga 3110