Tauranga

Urban Coastal Beaches

Population: 135k

Best Season to Visit: Summer

Best Off-Peak Month to Visit: May

Famous For: Mount Maunganui Beach, Maori culture, Outdoor adventures

Train Access: No

Bus Access: Yes (Bayhopper)

Tauranga, nestled in the Bay of Plenty on New Zealand's North Island, is a coastal paradise that beckons travelers with its sun-soaked beaches, vibrant Maori culture, and a plethora of outdoor activities. Visitors can soak up the sun at Mount Maunganui Beach, a popular spot for surfing and relaxation, or hike up the extinct volcano Mauao for panoramic views of the bay. The city's waterfront is alive with cafes and restaurants serving up local Kiwi fare and fresh seafood, while the nearby wineries offer tastings of New Zealand's renowned wines. Cultural experiences abound, with opportunities to learn about Maori traditions and history at The Elms

VRBO Vacation Rentals
Learn More

With over 2 million bookable vacation rentals, Vrbo connects homeowners with families and vacationers looking for something more than a hotel for their trip. The Vrbo community offers families an array of rental property types such as condos, cabins, lake rentals, beach houses, and more. Discover properties in destinations that everyone dreams of visiting.

VRBO Vacation Rentals

Planning Your Trip to Tauranga

Weather: Tauranga experiences a temperate maritime climate with warm, humid summers and mild, wet winters, making it an attractive destination throughout the year.

Festivals: The National Jazz Festival and the Tauranga Arts Festival are among the most celebrated events, showcasing music, performances, and art from across New Zealand and beyond.

Best Things for Kids to Do: Children will delight in visiting Marshalls Animal Park for hands-on encounters with farm animals, and the Hairy Maclary & Friends Tauranga Waterfront Sculpture Park provides an interactive experience for young fans of the beloved book series.

Hidden Gem: The Minden Lookout offers breathtaking views of the Bay of Plenty and is a perfect spot for a scenic picnic away from the crowds.

Accessibility: Tauranga is relatively accessible for older people, with flat and well-maintained walkways along The Strand waterfront area, though some attractions may require walking on uneven terrain.

For the Runner: The base track around Mauao provides a scenic and accessible route for running or walking, while the Waikareao Estuary loop offers a longer, picturesque trail through wetlands and boardwalks.

Restaurants in Tauranga

Tauranga offers a diverse dining scene catering to different tastes and budgets. At the higher end, there's Harbourside, which offers fine dining with beautiful waterfront views. For mid-range dining, The Phoenix is a popular gastropub serving a variety of dishes in a relaxed atmosphere. For more casual and budget-friendly options, Bobby's Fresh Fish Market provides classic Kiwi fish and chips, while Rice Rice Baby offers Vietnamese street food with a modern twist.

Where to Stay

Tauranga has a range of accommodation options to suit various preferences and budgets. The Trinity Wharf Tauranga is a waterfront hotel offering luxury stays with stunning harbor views. For a more budget-friendly option, the Hotel on Devonport provides comfortable and modern rooms in the heart of the city.

Best Hotels: Trinity Wharf Tauranga, Hotel on Devonport, The Pacific Apartments

Dog-Friendly Hotels: Hotel Armitage and Conference Centre, The Atrium Apartments, Bennetts Thermal Pools Motor Inn