Things To Do
in Tauranga
Tauranga is a coastal city located in the Bay of Plenty region on New Zealand's North Island. It is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant arts scene, and relaxed lifestyle. The city offers a range of outdoor activities such as swimming, surfing, and hiking.
Tauranga is also a popular destination for cruise ships due to its picturesque waterfront and local attractions.
- "Kia ora" - Hello
- "Haere mai" - Welcome
- "Ka kite" - See you
- "Tēnā koe" - Thank you
- "Māori ora" - Be well
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $20 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $4 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $80 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $50 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike up Mount Maunganui. Enjoy the stunning views over the Bay of Plenty once you reach the summit.
Relax at the beach or unwind at one of the nearby cafes. You can also explore the local shops for unique souvenirs.
Watch the sunset from the beach, a perfect way to end your day. Grab dinner at a beachfront restaurant with delicious seafood.
Enjoy a rejuvenating morning at Fernland Spa, surrounded by lush gardens. Indulge in spa treatments or relax in the thermal pools.
Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens to enjoy the native flora and peaceful atmosphere. Perhaps have a light lunch at the on-site café.
Unwind with a soothing evening soak in the thermal pools. Enjoy a calm dinner at a nearby restaurant known for local cuisine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches.
- Pleasant climate with mild winters and warm summers.
- Growing economy with opportunities in tourism, agriculture, and construction.
- Family-friendly environment with quality schools and healthcare.
- Strong community spirit and various cultural events.
- High cost of living and housing prices.
- Traffic congestion during peak tourist seasons.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Vulnerability to natural disasters like earthquakes.
- Occasional issues with over-tourism affecting local amenities.
Best Activities in Tauranga
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hike to the top of Mount Maunganui for stunning views of the bay and surrounding area.
Explore hiking trails and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline and countryside.
Rent kayaks or paddleboards to explore the calm waters of Tauranga Harbour.
Enjoy walking trails, picnic areas, and the stunning McLaren Falls while surrounded by natural beauty.
Discover the diverse marine life and underwater landscapes at this renowned dive spot.
Tours
Uncover the best of Tauranga with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Tauranga
Visit one of these nice places.
The summit offers panoramic views of Tauranga, the Bay of Plenty and the Pacific Ocean, making it a popular spot for photography.
The waterfront area provides beautiful views of Tauranga's harbor, with boats, yachts and the iconic Tauranga Bridge creating picturesque settings for photographs.
A stunning location with expansive vistas of the coastline and countryside, ideal for capturing the natural beauty of Tauranga.
Food in Tauranga
Tauranga Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Maori dish cooked in an earth oven, consisting of meat, vegetables, and kumara (sweet potato) infused with smoky flavors. It's a must-try to experience authentic Maori cuisine. Best enjoyed at local cultural events or arranged through certain tour operators.
Must-Try!
A beloved dessert made from a meringue base topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit. You can savor this delightful treat at most cafes and restaurants throughout Tauranga, with each venue adding its own creative twist.
Indulge in the renowned Bluff oysters, known for their unique briny flavor and succulent texture. These delicacies are best enjoyed during the New Zealand oyster season and can be found at select seafood restaurants and markets.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Tauranga better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant market showcases a wide array of artisanal food, including gourmet burgers, wood-fired pizzas, Asian street food, and delectable sweets. Open on selected weekends, it's the perfect place to sample diverse street food offerings.
Discover a bustling night market offering a melting pot of global flavors, from mouthwatering Mexican fare to tantalizing Thai dishes. Live music and a lively atmosphere add to the appeal, making it a must-visit for street food enthusiasts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Tauranga, it's respectful to greet people with the Maori term 'Kia Ora', which means 'hello' or 'be well'. Using this traditional greeting shows cultural awareness and respect.
Tauranga has a significant Maori population, and it's important to be mindful of and respect their customs and traditions. Taking an interest in learning about Maori culture and observing the protocols, such as performing a formal powhiri (welcome), is highly appreciated.
Tauranga and its surroundings are home to sacred Maori sites and natural wonders. Visitors should be respectful when visiting these places, always follow designated paths, and refrain from disturbing the environment or engaging in inappropriate behavior.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Tauranga with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Tauranga
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Tauranga, New Zealand. It is not expected or required in restaurants, bars, or other service industries.
Payment in Tauranga, New Zealand is predominantly done using New Zealand dollars (NZD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payment methods are also becoming increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Tauranga.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The summer months offer warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, making it an ideal time for beach activities, water sports, and outdoor events. Tauranga is bustling with visitors during this time, so it's advisable to book accommodations in advance.
Autumn brings mild temperatures and less crowded attractions. It's a great time for hiking, wine tasting, and enjoying the beautiful fall foliage in the surrounding areas of Tauranga.
Winter in Tauranga is relatively mild, with cooler temperatures and occasional rainfall. While outdoor activities may be limited, it's a good time to explore indoor attractions, visit local markets, and indulge in cozy food experiences.
Spring is a refreshing time in Tauranga, with blooming flowers, pleasant weather, and a variety of outdoor events and festivals. It's an excellent season for nature walks, birdwatching, and exploring the region's gardens and parks.
Tauranga at Night
Hiking in Tauranga
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic track around the base of Mt. Maunganui, featuring stunning views of the coastline and an easy walking path perfect for all skill levels.
This walkway offers a beautiful stroll along Tauranga's waterfront, providing picturesque views of the harbour and surrounding landscapes.
A network of trails with varying difficulty levels, offering panoramic views of the Bay of Plenty and the chance to see local wildlife.
A diverse range of hiking trails in a lush forest setting, ideal for those looking for a more rugged hiking experience among native flora and fauna.
An easy, flat loop track that takes you along the Waikareao Estuary, perfect for birdwatching and enjoying tranquil views.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Tauranga through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Tauranga by plane.
The largest international airport in New Zealand, located approximately 200 kilometers northwest of Tauranga.
An international airport located about 110 kilometers southwest of Tauranga, serving both domestic and international flights.
A regional airport located around 60 kilometers southeast of Tauranga, offering limited international flights mainly to Australia.
Located approximately 460 kilometers south of Tauranga, it serves as a major international gateway to New Zealand's capital city.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Tauranga, comprising mainly of individuals with New Zealand European heritage.
The indigenous people of New Zealand, with a significant population in Tauranga.
A growing demographic group, including individuals from countries such as China, India, and the Philippines.
Includes individuals from various Pacific Island nations, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.
A variety of other ethnic groups, including those from Africa, the Middle East, and South America.
The Soul of Tauranga
Discover the essence of Tauranga through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport in Tauranga, with numerous local clubs and a strong following.
A widely played sport in Tauranga, featuring a number of clubs and competitions.
Netball is very popular among women in Tauranga, with many schools and clubs participating in local leagues.
Given Tauranga's coastal location, surfing is a favorite activity among locals.
Football has a growing community in Tauranga, with various clubs and youth programs.
Basketball is played at schools and clubs, gaining popularity among youth in the region.
Tauranga boasts several beautiful golf courses, attracting both locals and tourists.
With access to beaches and pools, swimming is a favored activity for many residents.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tauranga.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Tauranga caters well to vegetarians and vegans, with many eateries offering dedicated plant-based menus. From creative plant-powered bowls to hearty vegan burgers, there are numerous options to explore throughout the city.
Travelers with gluten-free dietary needs will find a wealth of choices in Tauranga. Many restaurants and cafes provide gluten-free alternatives, ensuring that individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities can dine with ease.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Tauranga with these cultural adventures.
