Tauranga

New Zealand, Oceania

Tauranga, a coastal gem in New Zealand's Bay of Plenty, is famous for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and outdoor adventures. The iconic Mount Maunganui offers breathtaking views, while the trendy waterfront attracts visitors with its eateries and shops. Enjoy water sports at the beach, explore beautiful walking tracks, or relax in the nearby hot pools. Tauranga's warm climate and lively events make it an appealing destination for young travelers seeking both relaxation and an energetic atmosphere.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Tauranga

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

11 Best Things to Do in Tauranga

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hike Mount Maunganui

Climb the iconic peak for stunning coastal views.

No booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Tauranga Art Gallery

Discover contemporary art in a vibrant space.

No booking required
3

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Rotorua Thermal Pools

Experience geothermal wonders and relaxing hot springs.

Booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through the Tauranga Marina

Enjoy scenic views and waterfront dining options.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at Mount Maunganui Beach

Sunbathe at one of New Zealand's best beaches.

No booking required
6

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Visit the Waimarino Adventure Park

Enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and fun activities.

Booking required
7

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the Elms Mission Station

Experience Tauranga's historical heritage.

No booking required
8

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Kiwi 360

Learn about kiwifruit farming and enjoy tastings.

No booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a scenic cruise in Tauranga Harbour

Enjoy stunning views and marine wildlife sightings.

Booking required
10

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Bay of Plenty Coastline

Discover beautiful beaches and coastal scenery.

No booking required
11

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend a festival at the Tauranga Domain

Experience local culture through various events.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Not expected

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Very High

LGBTQ+ safety score

12 (#1 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

New Zealand Dollar

Majority religion

Christian

Language

English

(80%+ speak English)

Best dishes to try

Kiwi Pie

Savory pie with meat and vegetables. (National dish)

Hāngi

Traditional Māori dish cooked in earth oven.

Pavlova

V

Meringue dessert topped with fruit and cream.

Fish and Chips

Battered fish served with fries.

Lamingtons

V

Sponge cake coated in chocolate and coconut.

Phrases to learn

English

English

Hello

Hello

(Hel-loh)

Yes/No

Yes / No

(Yes / No)

Thank you

Thank you

(Thang-k yoo)

Excuse me

Excuse me

(Ex-kyoos mee)

How much?

How much?

(How much)