Mount Maunganui/Tauranga

Mount Maunganui

One of the main features in this region is the long stretch of beach, which is a short walk from the town. This is a great place to chill out and relax, or try out the surf, either on your own or with a class. If the beach is a bit cold, then head to the hot pools near the camping ground.

Dominating the skyline is Mount Maunganui, a volcanic cone. There are a few different walking tracks to the summit, an easy one that gradually circles the mountain, or a steeper more direct route straight to the top. Allow approximately an hour for this.

The overnight stop in Mount Maunganui gives you a chance to visit one of New Zealand’s best-known Lord of the Rings attractions. Hobbiton Tours in Matamata will organise a return visit to the film set from Mount Maunganui, an activity that takes a full day to complete.

Tauranga

Tauranga is the major city of the western Bay of Plaenty on the east coast of the North Island of New Zealand. It is 105 km east of Hamilton and 85 km north of Rotorua.

Tauranga is located at the head of a large harbour which extends along the western Bay of Plenty, and is protected by Matakana Island. The town and headland of Mount Maunganui stand at the entrance to the harbour, five kilometres north of Tauranga. "The Mount", as it is known, is often regarded as a satellite town of Tauranga.

The name Tauranga comes from Maori, it roughly translates to "a sheltered anchorage".

Due to its sheltered position on the east coast, Tauranga enjoys a warm, dry climate. This has made it a popular location to retire to. During the summer months the population swells as the holidaymakers descend on the city.