There is so much to see and do in Te Moananui ā Toi (the Coastal Bay of Plenty) and, whatever you choose, it's sure to make you smile. We've put together eight epic Bay of Plenty experiences below, but it doesn't stop there so explore our website and find your adventure!
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1: EMBRACE OUR PRISTINE COASTLINE
Discover the Bay of Plenty’s renowned coastline with Bay Explorer. Learn about the Pacific Ocean’s depths and admire our abundant marine life and look out for some of nature’s finest creatures that live here including penguins, seals, dolphins, whales, sunfish, school fish, sharks and orca, depending on the time of year.
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See our wildlife and learn about our stunning coastline from qualified marine biologists.
2: EXPERIENCE THE MAJESTY OF ŌMANAWA FALLS
Just 30 minutes from Tauranga, Te Rere o Ōmanawa (Ōmanawa Falls) is a stunning 35-metre cascade set deep in the rohe of Ngāti Hangarau. Follow the new walkway through native forest, past carved pou and a traditional tomokanga, to scenic lookouts and cultural stories that bring this special place to life. Finish your visit with a coffee or bite to eat at the peaceful onsite Ōmanawa Café.
Ōmanawa is just one of many spectacular waterfalls in the Bay, discover more hidden gems here.
Highlights
Sacred waterfall experience and cultural storytelling.
3: SWIM WITH DOLPHINS IN THE WILD
Tick this off your bucket list and experience the majesty of swimming alongside dolphins in their natural habitat. Our warm coastal waters in the Bay of Plenty attract large pods of dolphins between November and May each year. Join Dolphin Seafaris for an epic adventure – they have a 95% success rate of finding dolphins! You may also see orcas, whales, sea turtles and seals along the way.
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Swim with dolphins, wildlife viewing.
4: ENJOY A KAYAK TOUR THROUGH A GLOW WORM CANYON
Watch a beautiful canyon come alive with twinkling lights during an evening Waimarino Glow Worm Kayak Tour. Enjoy something to eat and drink as the sun sets before paddling across Lake McLaren, near Tauranga, to witness this magical experience. Daytime kayak tours are also available – enjoy the birdsong and peaceful forest surrounds.
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Kayaking, glow worms.
5: SEE THE BAY FROM ABOVE
Quite possibly one of the world’s most scenic skydives, this is the ultimate thrill on the Pacific Coast Highway. Take a leap of faith with Skydive Tauranga and experience the rush of freefall from up to 12,000 feet. You’ll float back to earth with panoramic views of Mauao (Mount Maunganui), golden beaches and the sparkling Bay below, an unforgettable way to take in the region.
Highlights
Scenic skydive, coastal views, adrenaline rush.
6: TAKE A SELF-GUIDED WALK UP OR AROUND MAUAO
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
Mount Maunganui’s iconic dormant volcano, Mauao, offers unbeatable views and is steeped in Māori history and ancient myths. Hear about our region’s unique heritage during a walk with Arataki Cultural Walking Trails App. The base track around Mauao takes about 50 minutes and is one of New Zealand’s most popular walks, while a trek to the top is rewarded with panoramic views across Tauranga and the Pacific Ocean.
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One of New Zealand's most popular walking tracks.
7: TAKE A CRUISE AROUND TAURANGA
Kewpie’s popular tour travels through the Tauranga inner harbour surrounded by the Kaimai ranges.
Scenic features include the Statue of Tangaroa, a diversity of landscapes from untouched white sandy beaches, lush green forests, islands and small village settlements, contrasted by the massive and highly developed port infrastructure. Get close-up with cargo and container ships or visiting cruise ships as we travel through Stella Passage and New Zealand’s largest port.
Wildlife includes blue penguins and sea birds (marine mammals can be seen occasionally in season, including New Zealand fur seals, orca and dolphins).
Highlights
Harbour cruise, scenic views, wildlife.
8: ENJOY THE FRUITS OF OUR LABOUR
From orchard to table, the Bay of Plenty is bursting with flavour. Visit a working avocado orchard with Avocado Tours or join a winter truffle hunt and morning tea at Trufflewood Truffles. Pick fresh berries in season, browse local markets, and taste your way through artisan products, cafés, restaurants and wineries. There’s something fresh and delicious around every corner.
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Diverse produce and cuisine.