Arataki Cultural Walking Trails
Listen to mountains, rivers, and landmarks speak. Seamlessly receive info about sites of cultural significance at the Mauao base track, using our custom app and proximity tech.
Arataki Cultural Walking Trails
EXPLORE OUR OCEAN PARADISE
Welcome to Tauranga and Mount Maunganui - home to New Zealand's best beaches (we're not just saying that; it's true!). This part of Te Moananui ā Toi (the Coastal Bay of Plenty) has long been a top holiday destination for Kiwis; the endless beaches, stunning harbour and abundant marine life make it an epic destination for ocean lovers and beachgoers.
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Highlights
Home to New Zealand's best beaches, Tauranga & Mount Maunganui is an amazing place to visit if you're looking for an ocean adventure!
Proximity
By Car (to Tauranga):
From Auckland: 2 hours and 45 minutes
From Hamilton: 1 hour and 30 minutes
From New Plymouth: 4 hours and 15 minutes
From Napier: 3 hours and 45 minutes
From Wellington: 6 hours and 30 minutes
Magnificent Mauao
Visible from anywhere in Mount Maunganui is our beautiful maunga, Mauao. Perched at the entrance to Tauranga Moana, Mauao means "caught by the morning light" - and an adventure to the summit at sunrise is a pretty special way to start the day. Not so keen on an early start? No worries! Walking to the top of Mauao (or around the base track) is memorable at any time of the day and the view from the top is worth the walk.
There is a lot of history and stories to be shared; download the Arataki Cultural Trails app and learn the legends as you walk.
After a long day exploring, there's no better way to relax than with a soak at Mount Hot Pools which are located at the foot of Mauao. These are the only hot ocean water pools in the world. Enjoy the healing properties of bathing in warm salted water - it's good for the soul!
Oh, the ocean!
You can't visit the Bay of Plenty without experiencing some of our epic ocean activities! Whether you want to get up close to some of our friendly marine wildlife, or you want to pick up a new skill, there'll be something to suit you here.
Here are some top experiences on the water:
- Bay Explorer's half-day Dolphin & Wildlife Cruise
- Dolphin Seafaris' Dolphin Encounter (swim with dolphins)
- 1-hour Scenic Cruise (with optional stop-off at Matakana Island) with Kewpie Cruises
- Learn to paddleboard with East Coast Paddler
- Evening Glow Worm Kayak Tour with Waimarino
At the end of the day, grab some fish and chips and chill out at Pilot Bay to watch the sunset.
Highlights
Dolphin and wildlife encounters, and glow worm-filled canyons.
Dolphin & Wildlife Cruise - Bay Explorer
Enter nature & wide open spaces on a Bay Explorer wildlife cruise. Explore our big blue backyard and watch dolphins swimming up close. Join us for a shared lifetime experience and help protect wild marine animals. A great family friendly half-day.
Dolphin & Wildlife Cruise - Bay Explorer
Dolphin Viewing and Swimming
Our Wildlife Tour to watch and swim with wild dolphins in the Bay of Plenty is a must on any bucket list. Our 6-hour boat tour departs daily (November to May) from Tauranga on our spacious catamaran, ideal for viewing and swimming.
Dolphin Viewing and Swimming
Kewpie Cruises - Scheduled One Hour Scenic Harbour Cruise
Bay of Plenty's best value activity: It's a special opportunity for families with children under 12 years as they travel free. Hop on/Hop off at Matakana. Departures from Pilot Wharf, Pilot Quay, Mount Maunganui
Kewpie Cruises - Scheduled One Hour Scenic Harbour Cruise
East Coast Paddler - Stand Up Paddle Boarding Lesson
Intro to Stand Up Paddle Boarding Lesson
East Coast Paddler - Stand Up Paddle Boarding Lesson
Evening Glow Worm Kayak Tour - Tauranga
Glow Worm Kayak tours depart from Waimarino, Tauranga. A delightful array of refreshments are offered during sunset just before departure onto the lake. The darkness has fallen and the glow worms shine extra bright in the moon lit sky.
Evening Glow Worm Kayak Tour - Tauranga
Beached as!
Mount Main Beach has been voted New Zealand's favourite beach by TripAdvisor for the past 7 years – and it's not hard to see why! This safe swimming beach is great for swimming in all year round (okay, it might get a bit cold in winter, but there are always people surfing and swimming!). It's a super accessible beach, with plenty of parking, public facilities, cafés and restaurants, and some of the best ice cream shops around!
The Mount is a great place to grab a surf lesson; you'll find plenty of instructors dotted along the beach.
Highlights
Hang out at New Zealand's best beach.
Mount Maunganui Surf Academy
Mount Maunganui Surf Academy
Hibiscus Surf School
Hibiscus Surf School began in the spring of 2004 and continues to provide quality surf instruction to all levels of surfers, from beginner to advanced.
Hibiscus Surf School
Discovery Surf School
Discovery Surf School provides surfing lessons of the highest quality for all ages and abilities in a fun and safe environment.
Discovery Surf School
NZ Surf Academy
NZ Surf Academy is a respected surf company operating across Northland, Matakana Coasts, Orewa & Mount Maunganui. We promote surf lessons, surf tours, school & holiday camps, corporate team building, family surf days, beach education, surf culture and adventure.
NZ Surf Academy
East Coast Paddler - Stand Up Paddle Boarding Lesson
Intro to Stand Up Paddle Boarding Lesson
East Coast Paddler - Stand Up Paddle Boarding Lesson
Ways to see Tauranga & the Mount
There are plenty of ways to get out and see the Bay of Plenty. Here are a couple of extra special ideas:
- Book a tour with V8 Trikes; these epic trikes are the ideal way to see a bit more of the area - and loads of fun to boot! There is a range of tours to choose from, or customise your own if there's somewhere special you want to go.
- For an extra special treat - book a scenic flight with Adventure Helicopters; choose from an epic range of packages and flight options, these guys will have you flying above Mauao, up the coast, out to a winery - or wherever you choose!
Highlights
See the Bay by trike or from the air!
V8 Trike Tours
Discover Mount Maunganui & Tauranga on the back of an awesome V8 Chevy Trike. Buckle up, sit back and relax while our driver/guide shows you the stunning sights. 2022 Traveler's Choice Award and voted #1 TripAdvisor for our region.
V8 Trike Tours
Cobra Classic
Helicopter scenic flight to a relaxed lunch before taking to the roads in a Ford powered V8 AC Cobra.
Cobra Classic
Carbon Neutral Scenic Helicopter Flight Package
A stunning scenic flight to a beautiful cafe at Waihi for lunch followed by driving back to Tauranga in the latest Tesla Model X.
Carbon Neutral Scenic Helicopter Flight Package
Where to stay
There's plenty of accommodation to choose from during your time at the Mount and Tauranga. Some popular options include: Pacific Coast Lodge & Backpackers, Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park, Mission Belle Motel, The Beaumont Apartments, or Mount Backpackers.
If you're looking for accommodation in Tauranga City, some great options include: Trinity Wharf Hotel, Hotel on Devonport, Clarence Hotel, Hotel Armitage, and Wanderlust New Zealand.
Mission Belle Motel
Nate and Emma would like to welcome you to the Mission Belle Motel in one of New Zealand's most stunning beach locations, Mt Maunganui.
Mission Belle Motel
Hugo and Carter's Backpackers and Motel
We are situated a short walk from the CBD and offer free parking and wifi to all guests. We aim to provide a home away from home for guests and a place to rest and recharge.
Hugo and Carter's Backpackers and Motel
Mount Backpackers
Mount Backpackers is the only Hostel in downtown Mount Maunganui and the closest Hostel to the Mount Main Beaches.
Mount Backpackers
The Atrium Apartments
The Atrium Apartments are located right in the heart of all the action. The Atrium offers tourists to New Zealand and visitors to Mount Maunganui the opportunity of a great beach holiday destination for individuals, couples, groups and families. Affordable modern internally accessed accommodation for everyone.
The Atrium Apartments
Oceanside Resort & Twin Towers
Beachside accommodation in the heart of Mt Maunganui amongst surf and harbour beaches with cafes, shopping and relaxation.
Oceanside Resort & Twin Towers
Cosy Corner Holiday Park
Family holiday park, 80 metres from the beautiful ocean beach at Mount Maunganui on the Pacific coast. Only 3km from Tauranga airport or a 3 hour drive from Auckland airport.
With powered camp sites and a full range of accommodation.
Cosy Corner Holiday Park
Colonial Court Motor Inn
We assure you of a warm welcome, comfortable stay and Fantastic Hospitality.
rooms are all ground floor easy access units, built running off the road, ensuring you a quiet and peaceful stay.
Colonial Court Motor Inn
Bay Palm Motel
Bay Palm Motel at Mount Maunganui has 16 fully equipped units that are serviced daily by friendly staff. We are only 150m from the beach, close to Bayfair Mall,Baypark Arena ,and restaurants, with a heated pool.
Bay Palm Motel
Pacific Coast Lodge and Backpackers
We are an award winning hostel and the only hostel in Mount Maunganui that is 4 star Qualmarked, so you can guarantee quality superior standards. The Mount is Zealanders' favourite holiday destination, we are a few blocks from beauty sandy beaches.
Pacific Coast Lodge and Backpackers
Belle Mer Apartments
Belle Mer Apartments will be closed from 20 April 2022 - June 2023
for major upgrades.
Located on Mount Maunganui's beachfront, we offer 2 and 3 bedroom self catered and serviced luxury apartments plus penthouse. Apartments on levels 2 and 3 have ocean views.
Belle Mer Apartments
Academy Motor Inn
Whether you’re visiting Tauranga on business, attending a conference, or a weekend getaway, Academy Motor Inn offers truly outstanding service and hospitality where your individual and group needs are held paramount.
Academy Motor Inn
Pacific Motor Inn
A great place to stay. Comfortable beds, well equipped rooms at ground level. Park your car outside your door, step onto the main street for the best shops, cafes, restaurants, bars that the Mount has to offer.
Pacific Motor Inn
Hotel on Devonport
Hotel on Devonport is a luxury boutique style hotel located in downtown Tauranga with shopping and restaurants within a few minutes walk.
Hotel on Devonport
Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park
Situated in the beautiful Bay of plenty on both harbour and ocean beaches, this iconic family park is a great place to enjoy your leisure time. Spend your days lazing on the beach or enjoy water activities that Pilot Bay has to offer.
Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park
Tasman Holiday Parks - Papamoa Beach
As the only real beachfront accommodation complex in sunny Papamoa, we provide everything you need for a fantastic Bay of Plenty beach holiday. Come sleep on the beach with us and wake up to the sound of the waves.
Tasman Holiday Parks - Papamoa Beach
Calais Mount Resort
Calais Mount Resort Quality luxury self serviced apartments. Qualmark 4 star plus. Perfectly situated at the foot of the Mount.
Calais Mount Resort
Casa del Mare
Papamoa Bed and Breakfast accommodation, Casa del Mare is the perfect bed and breakfast accommodation for short breaks, holidays and for business functions.
Casa del Mare
The Anchorage Apartments
Nestled in the heart of down town Mount Maunganui, The Anchorage offers luxury apartment accommodation.
The Anchorage Apartments
Cutters Cove Resort Apartments
The perfect place to relax and unwind in tranquil tropical gardens. Located opposite the Mount beach, an easy walk to restaurants and shops.
Cutters Cove Resort Apartments
Trinity Wharf Tauranga
A unique 4.5 star Tauranga hotel, located on and over the harbour with a relaxed ambience, flexible event venue options and waterfront dining. Situated in the Bay of Plenty region – one of New Zealand’s top holiday destinations.
Trinity Wharf Tauranga
The Pacific Apartments
The Pacific Apartments are located a short stroll from both Pilot Bay and the Mount's Main Beach, and 60m from the base of the Mount and the world-renowned hot salt-water pools.
The Pacific Apartments
Baywatch Motor Inn
Adult friendly, centrally located near shops and the beach. 17 modern, spacious air-conditioned rooms with unlimited free WiFi, free onsite parking. Plunge pool on site.
Baywatch Motor Inn
Wanderlust NZ
Wanderlust NZ, more than just a place to stay. Our newly renovated historic building is the preferred stop for travellers and young adventurers wanting high quality, affordable rooms, from backpacker hostel style dorms to upmarket double en-suites.
Wanderlust NZ
Harbour City Motor Inn Tauranga
You will love our location, we are the closest Motel to the city centre, shops & restaurants. Across the road from the Baycourt Theatre, Art Gallery & buses. You won't have to get in your car until you leave.
Harbour City Motor Inn Tauranga
Papamoa Beach Paradise
Papamoa Beach Paradise is a modern 3 bedroom 2 bathroom Papamoa holiday home. Situated right across the road from the beach, this is an ideal spot to get away from it all and take in the view!
Papamoa Beach Paradise
Aquarius Motor Inn
Aquarius Motor Inn is centrally located on Maunganui Road, about a 10 minute walk to the beach and to Mount Main Street with its cafes, restaurants, bars, and shopping.
Aquarius Motor Inn
Bethlehem Motor Inn
We have 23 spacious, ground level, studio, 1 and 2 bedroom suites, all furnished to a very high standard. On-site facilities include an outdoor swimming pool and spa pool.
Bethlehem Motor Inn
Pavilion Beachfront Apartments
Pavilion Beachfront Apartments offers 1, 2 and 3 bedroom fully self contained apartments. Enjoy a comfortable stay at the main beach... you deserve it!
Pavilion Beachfront Apartments
Hotel Armitage and Conference Centre
Nestled conveniently in the heart of Tauranga's CBD, surrounded by native trees, Hotel Armitage and Conference Centre is also close to the Elms, Tauranga Domain and Mount Maunganui, with its renown white sandy beaches.
Hotel Armitage and Conference Centre
The Beaumont Apartments
The Beaumont Apartments are situated at the base of Mount Maunganui, between Mount Maunganui & Pilot Bay. The Mount's Hot Pools are a 2 minute walk and offer a 20% discount to guests. Walking distance to cafes, restaurants and Mount Shopping Centre.
The Beaumont Apartments
Clarence Hotel
Steeped in history, with contemporary, boutique interiors and a desirable central location, The Clarence Hotel is just a stone's throw from the hustle and bustle of the Tauranga waterfront.
Clarence Hotel
Quest Tauranga
Welcome to The Quest Tauranga the ultimate accommodation choice in the very heart of stunning Tauranga City in the Bay of Plenty, New Zealand. We have 30+ luxury suites and apartments.
Quest Tauranga
Paradise Beach Luxury Accommodation
Paradise Beach Barns a rare find in Papamoa, our unique rentals are available as your personal holiday stay. Choose a 4 bedroom family-sized home to a romantic 1 bedroom barn ideal for couples, explore our 5-star accommodation right beside the beach.
Paradise Beach Luxury Accommodation
Capri on Pilot Bay
Capri on Pilot Bay's accommodation is modern, comfortable and situated in the heart of Mount Maunganui.
Capri on Pilot Bay
Where to eat
You'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing where to eat in Tauranga and Mount Maunganui.
Downtown Tauranga has a wide range of delicious eateries, from high-end waterfront dining at Harbourside, to arguably some of the best dumplings (the lamb and kale are a must!) and street food at Our Place. Stroll along The Strand and choose from one of the bars, restaurants or cafés and sit back, relax and watch the world (and a few boats) go past.
Mount Main Street is a busy hub of restaurants, bars and boutique shopping. No matter what you're in the mood for, you'll find something tasty to satisfy your tastebuds. The laidback, surf vibe at Astrolabe is appealing if you're after a casual meal or drink. The casual restaurant is also great for families with its large outdoor area. For something a little more fancy, head to No.8 or Alpino. Rice Rice Baby is newish to the Mount; it's always busy and once you've been, you'll see why!
Highlights
Where to start! Choose from a HUGE range of epic eateries, bars and cafés.
Astrolabe
Astrolabe is an iconic restaurant, cafe and bar open 7 days from 9am till late for brunch, lunch, bar snacks and dinner and is popular with both locals and tourists.
Astrolabe
Mexico Bayfair
Mexico Food & Liquor
Mexico Bayfair
Mount Mellick
Mount Mellick is a traditional Irish Pub situated in the heart of Mount Maunganui. We have great food, fine ales and something happening everyday!!
Mount Mellick
Elizabeth Cafe and Larder
From signature dishes such as the crispy snapper taco and eggs Benedict on a potato and herb rosti, to succulent pastries that are made fresh on site every day, there is plenty to tempt all.
Elizabeth Cafe and Larder
The Med Cafe
We have seriously good coffee, fantastic food, friendly staff and groovy tunes.
The Med Cafe
The Rising Tide
We love craft beer, dumplings, being situated on a beautiful park, and our big deck that soaks up the warm Mount Maunganui sun.
The Rising Tide
The Dry Dock Cafe
Gorgeous caf on Wharf St. Great coffee, great food and great service.
The Dry Dock Cafe
La Mexica Cantina and Restaurant
Fresh, tasty Mexican food and drinks in a fun atmosphere. La Mexica Cantina and Restaurant on The Strand, Tauranga.
La Mexica Cantina and Restaurant
Satori Lounge
At Satori Lounge our concept is sushi rolled fresh to order just for you. Our warm deep fried rolls are perfect for converting non sushi lovers and most of our menu can be made gluten free.
Satori Lounge
Tay Street Beach Cafe
Castle 91 Indian Restaurant
Castle 91 Indian Restaurant & Takeaways. We are open for lunch and dinner, as well as home delivery in the Tauranga area. We also do outdoor catering for all occasions.
Castle 91 Indian Restaurant
Cornerstone Pub
The Cornerstone Pub has a distinct European theme providing a relaxed, upmarket atmosphere along Taurangas prestigious strip, The Strand.
Cornerstone Pub
Burger Fuel
Burger Fuel
Deckchair Cafe
Deckchair Cafe is, as it sounds, colourful and casual yet smart enough to impress. It is a vibrant cafe on Marine Parade, Mount Maunganui. The ever popular menu speaks for itself.
Deckchair Cafe
Lone Star Tauranga
The Lone Star Cafe and Bar Tauranga is famous for providing quality with quantity, using only the best and freshest local produce.
Lone Star Tauranga
Trinity Wharf Restaurant
From relaxed, all-day alfresco dining on the expansive balcony, to refined candlelit dining, Halo Restaurant at Trinity Wharf Tauranga hotel offers a chic yet relaxed ambience.
Trinity Wharf Restaurant
The Cider Factorie
Award winning Cidery located in the green belt of Te Puna, Tauranga.
The Cidery, Restaurant and Cellar Door are situated in the one amazing location for you to visit 5 days a week.
The Cider Factorie
Latitude 37 Restaurant - Bar
You’ll find us in the heart of downtown Mount Maunganui, unmistakable frontage of schist stone with gas torches ablaze.Open for dinner or just bar snacks.
Latitude 37 Restaurant - Bar
Harbourside Waterfront Dining
Dining at Harbourside is about much more than treating the taste buds. Situated in an atmospheric historic building hugging Taurangas water edge, Harbourside is about the setting as well as sensational cuisine and superb service
Harbourside Waterfront Dining