Discover Coastal Beauty and Cultural Depth
Bay of Plenty, on the North Island’s eastern coast, is one of New Zealand’s most naturally beautiful and culturally vibrant regions. With golden beaches, rolling orchards, and deep Māori roots, the area offers a unique blend of relaxing escapes and enriching experiences. Tauranga, the region’s largest city, boasts a lively waterfront with great dining and easy access to Mount Maunganui – a must-do climb for panoramic views and beachside bliss.
Further inland, Rotorua is a geothermal wonderland. Here, you'll find bubbling mud pools, steaming hot springs, and the chance to immerse yourself in Māori culture with a traditional hāngi meal or cultural performance. Whether soaking in a natural hot spring or wandering through lush native bush, you’ll feel the strong spiritual and geological heartbeat of this remarkable region.
Taste, Explore, and Experience the Bay
No visit to the Bay of Plenty would be complete without a stop in Te Puke, the kiwifruit capital of the world. Tour the orchards, sample fresh kiwifruit, and learn how this iconic New Zealand export is grown and harvested. It’s a surprisingly fun and educational experience that offers a literal taste of the region’s bounty.
In Whakatāne, one of the sunniest towns in Aotearoa, you can discover rich Māori heritage at Mataatua Wharenui, a beautifully restored ancestral meeting house. After a dose of history, unwind with a walk along Ōhope Beach, often voted the best beach in New Zealand. If you’re craving more outdoor adventures, the Hauraki Rail Trail offers scenic cycling routes, while Te Urewera National Park invites you deep into ancient native forest – perfect for hiking and off-the-beaten-path exploration.
Top Things to Do in the Bay of Plenty New Zealand
- Climb Mount Maunganui for stunning coastal views
- Relax in Rotorua’s geothermal hot springs and mud pools
- Explore Māori culture with a visit to a marae or cultural performance
- Tour a working kiwifruit orchard in Te Puke
- Walk or sunbathe along Ōhope Beach in Whakatāne
- Cycle the Hauraki Rail Trail through peaceful countryside
- Hike through Te Urewera National Park's lush native forests
- Enjoy waterfront dining and shopping in Tauranga
- Visit the historic Mataatua Wharenui meeting house
- Try surfing, paddleboarding, or kayaking along the coast
