Tauranga is a beautiful coastal city located in the Bay of Plenty region of New Zealand. It is renowned for its stunning beaches, lush green hills, and crystal clear waters. This city is a great place to explore, offering a variety of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. From natural wonders to historical sites, here are the top 20 places to see in Tauranga, New Zealand.
1. Mount Maunganui: Located just outside of Tauranga, Mount Maunganui is a beautiful volcanic peak that offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding Bay of Plenty. The summit can be accessed by either a short hike or a drive up the mountain. At the top, visitors can take in the sweeping views of Tauranga and the Bay of Plenty.
2. Tauranga Harbour: Tauranga Harbour is a great spot to take in the views of the city and the surrounding area. There are a variety of activities available, such as fishing, kayaking, and sailing. The harbour is also home to a variety of wildlife, including penguins, dolphins, and seals.
3. McLaren Falls Park: McLaren Falls Park is a beautiful park located in the heart of Tauranga. The park features a variety of attractions, including a waterfall, walking tracks, and picnic areas. Visitors can also explore the nearby McLaren Falls, which is the largest waterfall in the region.
4. Tauranga Art Gallery: The Tauranga Art Gallery is a great place to explore the city's vibrant art scene. The gallery features a variety of exhibitions, ranging from traditional Maori art to contemporary works.
5. Pilot Bay Beach: Pilot Bay Beach is a stunning beach located on the edge of Tauranga Harbour. The beach is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including dolphins and seals.
6. Te Puna Quarry Park: Te Puna Quarry Park is a beautiful park located in the hills of Tauranga. The park features a variety of attractions, including walking tracks, picnic areas, and a quarry lake. Visitors can also explore the nearby Te Puna Quarry, which is home to a variety of native plants and animals.
7. Tauranga Botanical Gardens: The Tauranga Botanical Gardens are a great place to explore the city's lush green landscape. The gardens feature a variety of plants and flowers, as well as walking tracks and picnic areas.
8. Tauranga Historic Village: The Tauranga Historic Village is a great spot to explore the city's history. The village features a variety of historic buildings, including a church, a post office, and a school.
9. Mauao: Mauao is a beautiful volcanic peak located in the centre of Tauranga. The peak offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding area. Visitors can also explore the nearby walking tracks, which offer great views of the city.
10. Waimarino Adventure Park: Waimarino Adventure Park is a great spot for families to explore. The park features a variety of attractions, including a water park, a mini golf course, and a range of rides.
11. Tauranga Racecourse: The Tauranga Racecourse is a great spot to take in the city's vibrant horse racing scene. The racecourse hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including the popular Tauranga Cup.
12. Kaimai Range: The Kaimai Range is a beautiful mountain range located just outside of Tauranga. The range offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding area. Visitors can also explore the nearby walking tracks, which offer great views of the city.
13. Pukehina Beach: Pukehina Beach is a stunning beach located on the edge of Tauranga Harbour. The beach is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including dolphins and seals.
14. Matakana Island: Matakana Island is a beautiful island located just off the coast of Tauranga. The island is home to a variety of attractions, including a lighthouse, a marine reserve, and a range of walking tracks.
15. Waihi Beach: Waihi Beach is a stunning beach located on the edge of Tauranga Harbour. The beach is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including dolphins and seals.
16. Tauranga City Centre: The Tauranga City Centre is a great spot to explore the city's vibrant culture. The city centre features a variety of attractions, including shops, restaurants, and cafes.
17. Tauranga Domain: The Tauranga Domain is a great spot to take in the city's vibrant culture. The domain features a variety of attractions, including a museum, a library, and a range of walking tracks.
18. Waimarino Lagoon: The Waimarino Lagoon is a great spot to explore the city's lush green landscape. The lagoon features a variety of plants and animals, as well as walking tracks and picnic areas.
19. Waimarino Adventure Park: Waimarino Adventure Park is a great spot for families to explore. The park features a variety of attractions, including a water park, a mini golf course, and a range of rides.
20. Tauranga Harbour Bridge: The Tauranga Harbour Bridge is a stunning bridge that connects the city to the surrounding area. The bridge offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding area. Visitors can also explore the nearby walking tracks, which offer great views of the city.