Bay of Plenty Attractions

Waihi Beach, Bowentown, Athenree - Waihi Beach goes to Bowentown and Athenree connected by a beautiful coastal walkway. A popular surf spot during summer.

Katikati - This town is unique for the magnificent murals painted on almost every spare wall; a tradition begun by the Open Air Arts committee in 1991.

Omokoroa Beach - Omokoroa peninsula juts into Tauranga Harbour with boat-launching facilities and a boating club. Take the ferry to Matakana Island to explore!

Papamoa - Papamoa is a popular surf beach stretching for miles with panoramic views. Go surfing, surfcasting or harvesting delicious tuatua shellfish at low tide.

Te Puke - The historic town of Te Puke is known as the kiwifruit capital of the world. Go hunting the ubiquitous kiwifruit in all its forms!

Maketu Beach - A tranquil spot with a tidal estuary and stunning vistas. Perfect for those who want to get close to nature, whilst still being in reach of shops, the golf course and fishing.

Pukehina, Matata, Thornton - A long stretch of Pacific Coast Highway connects Pukehina, Matata and Thornton. Matata is the Maori name for the fernbird which still can be seen around the lagoons.

White Island - An active volcano about 50km of Whakatane, White Island regularly bursts into life. Once the site of sulphur mining, these days it's a popular spot for sightseeing, fishing and diving.

37 murals and open-air artworks in and around Katikati’s main street. The ‘Mural Town of New Zealand’ started with three murals in 1991. The Haiku Pathway is an enjoyable stroll meandering along the Uretara River.

Kaimai Ranges is dominated by Mount Ngatamahinerua, which the Kaimai railway tunnel passes beneath. There are many good day walks in the park – the hike to the beautiful Wairere Falls begins at Goodwin Road.

Minden Lookout has unobstructed views along the coast over orchards, farmland and Tauranga city.

McLaren Falls Park, south of Tauranga, is one of the most romantic settings in the region. Referred to by locals as ‘lovers’ lookout’, the park has breathtaking views, many bush walks and an impressive waterfall. The park incorporates an arboretum containing one of the best collections of trees in the North Island.

Tauranga has a flourishing wine industry – the majority of vineyards welcome visitors for tastings and some have top-class restaurants.

Te Puna Quarry Park is being developed from a disused quarry into a world-class park by a dedicated band of volunteers. It is the place to go to enjoy nature and tranquillity, stunning views over the Bay of Plenty and great art.

Mount Maunganui (Mauao) base track is one of the most picturesque and walked tracks in New Zealand. You can also climb 1.5km to the top for a panoramic view of white sand, the harbour and outlying islands.

Moturiki Island (Leisure Island), a short stroll from Mount Maunganui’s main beach, is popular for its views of the ocean. During times of high seas it puts on a spectacular geyser-like display from the ‘blow-hole’.

Papamoa Hills Cultural Heritage Regional Park has a number of pa (fort) sites and is rich in Maori historical and ancestral associations. Walk to the summit (45 minutes) for panoramic views.

Kaiate Falls, southeast of Tauranga, is a pretty bush-filled ravine where the stream drops in a series of nine cascading waterfalls.

White Island is an active volcano – you can visit by launch or helicopter from Whakatane.

Ohope Beach is 11km long and is much loved by families for its safe swimming and splendid white sand. Only 6km from Whakatane, Ohope Beach is an excellent place for sea kayaking, fishing, bird-watching and long beach walks.

Puketapu Lookout has spectacular views; there is a track over the western headland.

Ohiwa Harbour is home to many birds, including migratory species that use the harbour as their feeding ground