Best things to do in Tauranga
Find out more about those top places in Tauranga
Tauranga, New Zealand: Auckland's Speedy Coastal Cousin (Think Waterfront Buzz, Volcanic Views, and Beaches for Days!) - Your Hilariously Honest Travel Guide to This Bay of Plenty Bonanza!
Kia Ora, adventure seekers! Just a hop, skip, and a scenic train ride south of Auckland, nestled right on the spectacular Bay of Plenty coast, lies the energetic hub of Tauranga. This isn't your sleepy seaside town; as New Zealand’s fastest-growing city (it recently zoomed past Dunedin to claim the title of the nation’s fifth largest!), Tauranga pulses with a suitably lively pace of life. It's like Auckland's younger sibling who's just discovered caffeine and is ready to take on the world!
The heart of Tauranga revolves around a lively waterfront, a bustling hub where the salty sea air mingles with the aroma of delicious food and the chatter of excited locals and visitors. The city center itself is a treasure trove waiting to be explored, boasting numerous art galleries showcasing local talent, boutique shops filled with unique finds (perfect for that "I survived New Zealand" souvenir!), and vibrant eateries ready to tantalize your taste buds with everything from fresh seafood to gourmet burgers. Trust us, your stomach will thank you for the sightseeing in this delicious district!
Now, while Tauranga might not have those blockbuster, "must-see-before-you-die" attractions that scream from every travel guide, what it lacks in mega-landmarks, it more than compensates for with absolutely splendid views of the majestic, extinct volcano Mount Maunganui. This iconic peak dominates the skyline and beckons for a climb (rewarding you with panoramic vistas that will make your Instagram followers weep with envy!). And speaking of Mount Maunganui, the seaside suburb that shares its name is a golden gem, stretching out with an impressive 20 kilometers of golden sand beaches. That's right, folks – twenty whole kilometers of glorious coastline just begging for sunbathing, surfing, sandcastle competitions, and romantic sunset strolls. Beach lovers, you've found your happy place to visit!
So, while you might not find yourself ticking off a long list of traditional "sights," Tauranga offers a different kind of charm – a vibrant, energetic atmosphere, stunning natural beauty, and a fantastic base for exploring the wider Bay of Plenty region. It's a place where you can soak up the sun, indulge in delicious food, explore local art, and conquer a volcano, all in a day's (adventurous) work!
Our hilarious (and incredibly helpful!) travel guide is here to navigate you through the best places to visit and the most exciting things to do in this Bay of Plenty bonanza. Get ready for some truly unforgettable sightseeing, from exploring the lively waterfront and charming city center to conquering Mount Maunganui and basking on those glorious golden beaches, all while uncovering the top attractions that make Tauranga a truly special and hilariously vibrant destination. Get ready to say "Kia Ora" to a fantastic Kiwi adventure!
Top Attractions: Volcano Views, Waterfront Buzz, and Beach Bliss!
Tauranga offers a fantastic blend of natural beauty and urban vibrancy:
Mount Maunganui (Mauao): Iconic Volcanic Views
Hike or stroll around the iconic Mount Maunganui (Mauao) for breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and Tauranga. A must-see attraction for your Tauranga sightseeing.
Tauranga Waterfront: Lively Hub
Explore the lively waterfront with its art galleries, boutique shops, vibrant eateries, and bustling atmosphere. A key place to visit for soaking in the city's energy.
Mount Maunganui Beaches: Golden Sands Galore
Relax and enjoy the 20 kilometers of golden sand beaches lining the Mount Maunganui suburb. A top thing to do for beach lovers and sun seekers.
Tauranga Art Gallery: Local Creativity
Discover the works of local and national artists at the Tauranga Art Gallery. A noteworthy place to visit for art enthusiasts.
The Historic Village: Step Back in Time
Wander through The Historic Village, a charming collection of relocated historic buildings showcasing the region's past. A key place to visit for a glimpse into Tauranga's heritage.
Things to Do Beyond the Iconic Landmarks (and within this Bay of Plenty bonanza!):
Our travel guide wouldn't be complete without suggesting some other fantastic things to do to truly experience the Tauranga vibe:
- Go Surfing or Paddleboarding: Catch some waves or explore the calm waters of the bay.
- Visit McLaren Falls Park: Enjoy scenic walks, waterfalls, and glowworm caves just outside the city.
- Explore the Local Markets: Discover fresh produce and artisan goods at the Tauranga Farmers Market.
- Take a Boat Trip: Explore the Bay of Plenty and its islands.
- Indulge in Fresh Seafood: Savor the delicious local catches at waterfront restaurants.
So, if you're looking for places to visit in New Zealand that offer a vibrant city atmosphere alongside stunning natural beauty and endless beach days, Tauranga is calling your name! Our travel guide promises an unforgettable adventure filled with incredible sightseeing and exciting things to do. Just be prepared for stunning views, friendly locals, and maybe a sudden urge to climb a volcano! Kia Ora and happy travels!
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The Elms
The most historic location of the Bay of Plenty, the Elms was founded in 1838 as the region’s first mission station. Today the original buildings, including the Anglican minister Alfred Brown’s house and the chapel, remain intact and are packed with period furnishings. For the best experience, fascinating guided tours take you through the area’s rich history and the story of the mission.
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Lake McLaren
In a country full of natural wonders, the unassuming Lake McLaren hardly stands out – until nighttime that is. Once the sun goes down, the narrow cliff lined lake becomes illuminated by millions of tiny glow-worms that cling to the rock faces creating a mesmerizing light show. To explore this unusual attraction, regular tours run from Tauranga.
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Mills Reef Winery
Just south of Tauranga lies the picture-perfect village of Bethlehem and its world-famous winery Mills Reef. While the Bay of Plenty is not grape growing country, Mills Reef source grapes from other areas of New Zealand before processing them in their state-of-the-art facility. For the best experience, head to one of their award wining tastings.
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Tauranga Art Gallery
Located in the buzzing heart of Tauranga, the city’s up and coming art gallery is one of New Zealand’s most challenging. With a rotating selection of contemporary art, the gallery punches well above its weight in the national art scene.
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Hobbiton
Set in the lush countryside south of Tauranga is Hobbiton, the set used as the location for the Shire in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit franchise. Guided tours of the fairy tale landscape are held throughout the day and conclude with a complimentary drink at the Shire’s famed Green Dragon pub.
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Bay of Plenty Cruise
Tauranga sits on the aptly named Bay of Plenty, which is home to New Zealand’s most spectacular marine life. Regular boat tours from the city take you out to sea where you can marvel at dolphins, penguins and seals and explore the rugged islands of Matakana, Karewa and Motiti on foot. For the best experience, you are recommended to bring snorkeling gear for a closer look at the bay’s underwater attractions.
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Minden Lookout
Located west of the city center, Minden Lookout provides visitors with a panoramic view of the Bay of Plenty. From the Victorian-era viewing platform you can even see the volcanic island of Whakaari smoking distantly.
