Ultimate Waterfront Retreat: Perfect for Groups and Paddle Boarding Enthusiasts

The Neighborhood

The Bay of Plenty boasts some of the best sun, sea and sand that New Zealand has to offer. Tauranga, home to the iconic Mauao volcano and Mount Maunganui beach. Affectionately termed “the Mount” by locals, this seaside gem offers watersports for the adventurous, festivals for the free-spirited and mouth-watering eats for the foodies. Here are the best things to do in and around Tauranga. 1) Climb Mount Maunganui (Mauao) At Sunrise Mount Maunganui is an extinct volcano that sits pretty across the harbour from Tauranga. Its Māori name, Mauao, means “caught by dawn”—so it’s only appropriate to experience all it has to offer at daybreak. There are several walking tracks available and it typically takes an hour to wind your way up through the pohutukawa trees. Although it’s a steep climb, once you reach the summit you’ll be greeted with 360° views of the Bay of Plenty coastline and Tauranga town centre. The mountain is flanked by two of New Zealand’s most picturesque beaches, Mount Maunganui Beach and Pilot Bay, making for a truly jaw-dropping vista from every angle. Pack a breakfast picnic (coffee mandatory) and see the day in with a peaceful sunrise. 2) Shopping in Tauranga is all about uncovering hidden treasures at independent stores. Those with a design eye and love for Kiwi-made brands should stop by Paper Plane concept store, where you’ll find a curated selection of fashion, lifestyle goods and homewares. For some spontaneity, visit Our Place for a selection of rotating local pop-ups from fashion to art and jewellery. The Our Place centre is constructed out of shipping containers, with the intention of offering low-cost retail spaces to local artisans and entrepreneurs, so you’re sure to collect one-of-a-kind gems here. 3) Get Among The Markets Tauranga serves up something special when it comes to weekend markets. On the first and third Saturday of every month check out the Little Big Markets which feature a line-up of eclectic artisans and mouth-watering eats. You’ll find everything from French crepes to rainbow shaved ice and locally crafted goodies. Foodies cannot miss the Dinner in the Domain, a weekly gathering of the best food trucks around. We’re talking bubble waffles, the juiciest burgers, giant paella and sweet treats. We’re drooling from the decadent snacks on offer at Hello Rosie, a connoisseur of vegan junk food. But if you would rather dig into a fresh piece of fruit, check out the Saturday farmers market for some stunning seasonal produce that would amp up any cheese board. 4) Unwind In Salt Water Hot Pools If relaxing and unwinding are your top priority then a visit to Mount Hot Pools is a must. Known for its therapeutic benefits, a soak in these salt-water pools against the backdrop of Mount Maunganui will leave you feeling like a new person. If you’re wanting to amp up the luxury, simply book in for a private pool and that massage you know you deserve. 5) Get Splashed At An Adventure Water Park If an adrenaline rush takes your fancy, look no further than Tauranga’s very own Waimarino Adventure Park. Take a 10-minute drive from the city centre and you’ll find an abundance of activities set up across the Wairoa River. There’s something for everyone including rock climbing walls and a good old slip ‘n’ slide. The more courageous should not miss the Tarzan swing, water trampoline or the ‘blob’—a giant inflatable that skyrockets you into the lake. For those seeking a peaceful water activity, Waimarino also offers evening glow-worm kayak tours on Lake McLaren—it’s as dreamy as it sounds. ACTIVITIES TO DO FOR COUPLES: -Team up on a kayaking tour to see the glowworms with Waimarino Kayak Tours -Watch the sunrise from the top of The Mount -Join Top Fun New Zealand for their romantic tour of Tauranga -Swim with dolphins with Dolphin Seafaris or Orca Wild Adventures -Take on an escape room challenge together