The Bay of Plenty region is one of New Zealand’s top holiday destinations. The Bay of Plenty region covers 12,200 sq.km of land with several islands in the bay, notably Mayor Island, Whale Island and the active volcano of White Island. Volca... Show More
Tourist Information About Bay of Plenty
The Bay of Plenty region is one of New Zealand’s top holiday destinations. The Bay of Plenty region covers 12,200 sq.km of land with several islands in the bay, notably Mayor Island, Whale Island and the active volcano of White Island. Volcanic mountains and geothermal areas dot the landscape with Rotorua being a major tourist site with the surrounding geothermal areas and M?ori cultural centres. The Bay of Plenty is also one of the fastest growing regions in New Zealand and the fifth-most populous region with the main population centres of Tauranga, Rotorua and Whakatane. Tauranga, the region's largest commercial centre, was named New Zealand's top city for economic performance for the 2011 year. The Bay of Plenty was named by James Cook when he sailed through the bay in 1769 after he noticed the abundant food supplies at several Maori villages there. According to local Maori traditions, the Bay of Plenty was the landing point of several migration canoes that brought Maori settlers to New Zealand. Tourism is a main part of the region’s economy with many activities and tourist attractions offering a multitude of things to see and do.
Best Attractions and free things to do in the Bay of Plenty
1. V8 Trike Tour
If you're looking for a fun-filled adrenaline rush, the V8 Trike Tour is just the place! It's the top 10% Attraction Worldwide and voted #1 Outdoor Activity in Tauranga. The unique and thrilling experience starts on a V8 Chevrolet trike as you explore the beautiful Bay of Plenty. A perfect and memorable way to spend an evening.
2. Kaituna River Rafting
Often the bay of plenty can be too sunny to spend the day in the sun. So, why not send it in the river! Join the Original Kaituna Rafting Company for an unbeatable white-water experience on one of New Zealand's most exciting and beautiful rivers! You even take on the world famous 7 meter Tutea Falls, the highest commercially rafted waterfall!
3. Rotorua
Wherever you are staying in the bay of plenty, it's always worth taking a day trip to Rotorua. With so many wonderful things to do it would be a missed opportunity not to take the drive. From Volcano hikes to mud spas, there's something for everyone!
4. Mauao Base track
In the Bay of Plenty, the coastal base track of Mauao is a must-do activity. The base track is around 3.5 kilometers long and is a relatively simple trek. After the walk, take a plunge in the Mount Hot Pools or grab a bite to eat and a drink at one of the Mount's many cafés and restaurants. It's not uncommon to spot joyful seals playing in the shallows or lounging on the rocks on this walk, and if you're lucky, you might even encounter a pod of orcas!
5. A walk to see the blowhole on Moturiki
Bring your togs and towels, go to the end and jump off of the blowhole into the sea! Moturiki is the most accessible of all the islands. The blowhole is between five and ten minutes' walk from Mount Maunganui's main beach. For the greatest observation point, follow the well-marked trail up the mild slopes and struggle over the boulders at the summit.
6. The Tauranga waterfront
Overlooking the shore of one of Tauranga’s beautiful natural inlets, yet situated just a few hundred meters from the Tauranga CBD, is the iconic Tauranga Waterfront. It's a wonderful place to spend an afternoon, or sit with friends and family on a sunny day.
7. Whirinaki forest
Be stunned, take a slow stroll in peace, or take a ride into the mists of this ancient landscape.
Feel the breath of the forest, go through time, walk in the footsteps of dinosaurs, under the shade of giants, and be welcomed by the Whirinaki.
This breathtaking walk welcomes all. The whole 25.6 kilometers of it is a huge 2-day feat, but you can turn around wherever.
8. Te Puna Quarry
Riddles in marvelous statues, Te Puna Quarry park has magic to be discovered at every turn.
The gardens are brimming with unique features, including irises, cactus and succulents, a palm grove, bonsai nook, butterfly garden, and so much more, including orchids by the thousands. With our Australian and South African areas, you can experience a taste of distant places.
9. Waihī Beach
Waihī Beach is a lively coastal community on the northern edge of the Coastal Bay of Plenty, with charming boutique shops, cafés, and a 9-kilometer stretch of white sand beach.
This beautiful bay has plenty of walking tracks to explore, including trips to secluded beaches and waterfalls offering panoramic views of the area. Or simply stroll along the 9-kilometer stretch of pristine beach - you can't go wrong!
10. Tauranga Art Gallery
The Tauranga Art Gallery consists of breathtaking pieces of exquisite art, appreciated by everyone. Whether it's a cloudy, sunny or cold day, the Tauranga Art Gallery should be at the top of your bucket list. There is something for everyone to enjoy with the vast variety of art forms the building takes in. Why not take an hour or two out of your day to have a look?
