Tauranga

The sunny city of Tauranga will tempt you with marine adventures. Go sailing, fishing or dolphin watching to appreciate the coastal environment.

Tauranga is the largest city in the Bay of Plenty and one of the fastest growing population centres in the country. It is also just a 15 minute drive from one of New Zealand's most popular beach towns, Mount Maunganui.

Downtown Tauranga has several historically significant areas to view during a scenic walk around the area. The Strand waterfront area has undergone a major redevelopment in the past few years, and is home to a number of cafés, restaurants, pubs and nightclubs, as well as a range of accommodation options.

Tauranga’s harbour is in evidence almost everywhere you go, providing the urban area with an attractive waterfront setting. Fishing, sailing, diving and dolphin tours are easy to arrange, or check out one of the local beauty spots – McLaren Falls or the Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park.

Consider these must do's while in Tauranga

• Get friendly with the local dolphins on an encounter cruise. If the conditions are right, you can swim with them.
• Walk around the base of Mount Maunganui (Mauao) or hike the 1.5 kilometre trek to the summit.
• Sample sumptuous wines at local award winning wineries.
• Relax at the Mount Maunganui Hot Salt Water Pools.
• Go fishing. Catch a charter to the marlin waters of Tuhua (Mayor Island) or dangle a line in the harbour.
• Stroll The Strand and check out the cafes, bars and restaurants.
• Visit the award winning Fresh Fish Market on Dive Crescent for some of the country's freshest, tastiest fish and chips.
• Browse the designer stores in Tauranga's business district or visit BayFair, the most successful shopping centre in New Zealand.

Functional facts: Approx. population 103,650, i-SITE Visitor Centre, domestic airport