Tauranga Travelers Recommend

A seaside city in northeastern New Zealand, Tauranga is popular for its sunny weather and wealth of outdoor activities. Thousands of New Zealanders flock there for summer vacation, but you’ll find plenty to enjoy at any time of year. Here are a few ways to make the most of one day in Tauranga.

Morning: Hike up Mount Maunganui

Waste no time getting the lay of the land by hiking up Mount Maunganui, the hill on a peninsula just north of the city. You won’t need mountaineering equipment for this one, as it’s only 761 feet (232 meters) high. Trails up the mountain are well marked, and start from boardwalks in the Mount Maunganui neighborhood. At the top, savor the sweeping views of Tauranga and the Pacific Ocean.

Afternoon: Take a cruise

Time to get out onto the water. Scenic cruises stay within the inner harbor and sail past pretty islands and bays. If you’re a wildlife lover, opt for a dolphin-spotting cruise—you might even get to swim with one (depending on the conditions). If you still have energy to burn after the morning’s hike, join a kayaking tour instead.

Night: Dine and drink along the waterfront

For a midsize city, Tauranga has a wide range of eating and drinking options. You’ll find many of these along the Strand in downtown Tauranga, as well as in Mount Maunganui. Choose one of the many spots with outdoor seating, and order some fresh local seafood and New Zealand wine. For a less pricey dinner, you can’t go wrong with fish and chips on the beach.

A beautiful small city in northeastern New Zealand, Tauranga is a fun alternative to staying in Rotorua or Taupo. There’s plenty to see and do in the city itself, plus it’s a convenient base for exploring the upper North Island. Here are some ways to make the most of three days in Tauranga.

Day 1: See the city

Nature is the star of Tauranga’s show, and you don’t have to leave the city to experience it. On your first day, hike up 761-foot (232-meter) Mount Maunganui for sweeping views of the city and ocean. Alternatively, wander around town on a self-guided walking tour. In the afternoon, head out onto the water on a sightseeing cruise, a dolphin-spotting excursion, or a kayaking tour, stopping at some of the islands and bays around Tauranga Harbour. In the evening, try some local seafood and North Island wine at a waterfront restaurant.

Day 2: Visit White Island

Take a day trip to White Island, an active volcano just 56 miles (90 kilometers) off the coast of Tauranga. One of the most accessible active volcanoes in the world, White Island can be reached by helicopter (the more expensive option) or boat. See steam vents, bubbling mud, and lakes of acid while learning about the local geology. You might even get to go for a swim—at a safe distance from any geothermal activity, that is. Safety equipment is provided if needed, so just relax and enjoy the experience. 

Day 3: Get active

New Zealand is an outdoor adventure lover’s playground, and some of the best adrenaline-inducing activities in the country are just a short trip from Tauranga. For white-water rafting (no prior experience necessary) or kayaking, head to the Wairoa River or Kaituna River. Alternatively, go hiking in one of the natural areas near Tauranga, such as McLaren Falls Park, where you’ll find waterfalls, dense native bush, and many trails to follow.

Round off your stay in and around Tauranga with a late afternoon or evening dip in one of the city’s famous public pools. Soak in saltwater baths and naturally sourced hot pools, a restorative way to revive your tired body after a busy three days. 

A small city in northeastern New Zealand, Tauranga is known for its sunny weather, beautiful landscapes, and proximity to other top sights on the North Island. Whether you’re into adventure activities and the great outdoors, or you prefer more chilled-out pursuits, there’s plenty to keep you entertained for two days in Tauranga.

Day 1: Get to know the city

**Morning:**Start the day with a moderate hike up Mount Maunganui, the small mountain at one end of Tauranga. At the top, savor the sweeping views of the city and ocean. 

**Afternoon:**Spend the afternoon on the water, on a dolphin-watching cruise. Or, hop on a ferry to Matakana Island. An ideal place for a restorative few hours, this island northwest of Tauranga has a long beach, powerful surf, and lots of birdlife.

**Night:**Relax after a day of sun, sea, and fresh air with dinner and drinks by the water. New Zealand is renowned for its fresh seafood and fine wines, and Tauranga has plenty. Head to the central city or the suburb of Mount Maunganui.

Day 2: Take a day trip

**Morning and afternoon:**Tauranga is conveniently located on the North Island near many other popular attractions. Foodies looking for a laid-back day might opt for a craft beer or wine tour of Tauranga and surrounding areas. If you’re seeking more of an adrenaline rush, head out on a kayaking or white-water rafting trip on the Kaituna River or Wairoa River—both known for their thrills.

**Night:**Few experiences are more Kiwi than eating fish and chips on the beach. Grab a packet of your favorite fried treats—try a paua or pipi fritter for a real taste of New Zealand—and find a spot on a Tauranga or Mount Maunganui beach in time for sunset. Just beware of the seagulls!