Tauranga has many wonderful natural sights for the tourist to visit but it also has a thriving cultural scene in the city itself. Pride of place amongst local attractions is the Tauranga Art Gallery which opened four years ago and whose exhibitions promote local and national artists in a wide range of different media.
The city is also home to the National Jazz Festival each year which attracts top acts. Finally, if you’re there at the height of the New Zealand summer join the throng as they celebrate New Year on Mount Maunganui.
Tauranga Mini Guide
Tauranga in a Nutshell
Tauranga is a resort town on New Zealand’s North Island. It is famous for its beaches and a laid back summery feel. Luxury cruise liners often dock here at the town’s port. The town’s name comes from the Maori meaning ‘sheltered anchorage’.
How do I get to Tauranga?
You can fly into Wellington or Auckland and get a connecting flight to Tauranga Airport. From there you can hire a car or take a taxi or shuttle bus to get into the town. Intercity operates coach services throughout New Zealand and Naked Bus provides cheap bus travel on North Island. Use the Bay Hopper bus service to get around town.
What can I do in Tauranga?
Visit an active volcano at White Island or hike up Mauao mountain for spectacular coastal views. Mount Mauriganui is the place to go for surfing and diving or just relaxing on the beach. There you can also shop for surf gear and stop at one of the many coffee shops in the main street. You can take a fishing trip or dolphin watching trip from the beaches there too.
Out and About
Drive out to Katikati and soak in the hot springs. Have a snack in one of the quirky cafes there and then take a vineyard tour. Te Puke is worth driving out to - it’s a rural town in the orchard region. If you want to head for more beaches, Papamoa Beach is 15 km south of Tauranga or if you need some peace and quiet, go to Pukehina Beach a bit further south.
Will I Like the Food?
Try the locally grown tangelos and kiwis, they are the best in the region. If you want to eat out, the best area for restaurants is ‘The Strand’ in Tauranga.
Where can I Stay?
The Cobblestone Court Motel has self contained apartments in a garden setting. All apartments have private patios and free Wi-Fi, whether it’s a studio or 3 bedroom apartment. There is an outdoor pool and barbeque area. Restaurants and cafes are a 5 minute walk away.
Useful Links: