The iconic volcanic cone of Mount Maunganui rises majestically above pristine white sand beaches in this coastal paradise. Surf breaks roll onto Main Beach while the sheltered waters of Pilot Bay offer calm swimming on the harbour side. The base track winds through native pohutukawa groves, revealing stunning ocean views at every turn. Marine Parade buzzes with beachfront cafes serving fresh seafood and perfect flat whites. Surf shops and boutiques line the walkable streets near the famous hot saltwater pools. Summer brings a vibrant atmosphere to this laid-back community where beach culture thrives year-round.
Papamoa Beach offers 16 kilometres of golden shoreline where surfers catch waves and families build sandcastles. This welcoming coastal area balances tourist appeal with authentic Kiwi beach culture. The beach promenade buzzes with joggers and cyclists while pohutukawa trees provide crimson-framed shade in summer. Gordon Spratt Reserve provides playgrounds and picnic spots for family outings. Compared to other New Zealand beach destinations, Papamoa remains refreshingly affordable with holiday parks and beach house rentals. Most visitors appreciate the laid-back atmosphere where local families and tourists share the same pristine beaches.
The laid-back coastal paradise of Papamoa welcomes you with its stunning 16-kilometer white sand beach. Pacific waves create perfect surf breaks for beginners and pros alike. Local cafes serve fresh seafood and coffee with ocean views. The natural beauty extends to nearby Papamoa Hills, offering panoramic coastal vistas. Explore cultural heritage sites in the hills or try blokart sailing at the Recreation Park. Families appreciate the quiet suburban atmosphere and affordable beach houses. Stroll along dune restoration pathways or simply relax on the spacious shoreline. The extensive beach ensures you'll find your own peaceful spot even during peak summer months.
Omanu offers a laid-back coastal escape where Pacific waves meet golden sands. This quiet residential area in Tauranga showcases authentic New Zealand beach living away from tourist crowds. The surf lifesaving club anchors community life along the beachfront reserve. Pohutukawa trees provide natural shade for picnics while surfers catch waves offshore. Visitors stay in beach houses with ocean views and outdoor decks. The minimal commercialization preserves the genuine Kiwi coastal lifestyle where starlit evening walks replace bustling nightlife.
This peaceful suburb of Tauranga offers a genuine slice of New Zealand family life. Bethlehem balances modern comforts with natural beauty through its contemporary homes and lush green spaces along the Wairoa River walkways. The Bethlehem Town Centre provides convenient shopping and dining options for travellers. Explore nearby Fernland Spa for thermal relaxation or seek adventure at Waimarino Adventure Park. The neighborhood's flat terrain makes for pleasant walks and cycling through quiet residential streets. Visitors appreciate Bethlehem for its tranquil atmosphere away from tourist crowds.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Tauranga
Mount Maunganui
9.4/10 (1,501 reviews)
Mauao's volcanic peak offers a rewarding 40-minute hike to panoramic Pacific Ocean views. Explore the vibrant coastal town afterwards, where white-sand beaches meet boutique cafes and shops.
Photo by Janine Trinkl
Open Photo by Janine Trinkl
Papamoa Beach
This pristine 16-kilometer stretch of white sand offers ideal conditions for swimming, surfing, and fishing. Enjoy panoramic Pacific Ocean views while exploring the shoreline.
Mercury Baypark
8.4/10 (191 reviews)
Mercury Baypark hosts major concerts and sports events in its impressive 17,000-seat stadium. Visitors can experience world-class entertainment while enjoying modern amenities in Tauranga's premier event venue.
Tauranga Domain
8.8/10 (271 reviews)
This historic sports complex features expansive green spaces and the notable War Memorial Gates. Catch a Bay of Plenty rugby match or enjoy a leisurely picnic on the well-maintained grounds.
Blake Park
8.4/10 (107 reviews)
This premier sports complex in Mount Maunganui hosts cricket, hockey, and rugby events at both local and international levels. Visit during summer to experience New Zealand's sporting culture in full swing.
Mount Hot Pools
9.0/10 (281 reviews)
Soak in mineral-rich saltwater pools nestled at the base of Mount Maunganui. Enjoy the therapeutic waters in a private pool during evening hours when soft lighting enhances the tranquil atmosphere.
Bayfair Shopping Centre
8.8/10 (207 reviews)
The Bay of Plenty's largest indoor shopping complex offers 140+ retailers and multiple dining options. Enjoy a film at United Cinemas or visit Timezone for entertainment after exploring the stylish alfresco dining area.
Waimarino Adventure Park
8.2/10 (31 reviews)
This riverside adventure playground features NZ's only kayak slide, floating trampoline, and human-launching "Blob." Arrive early to enjoy water and land activities during warm-weather season.
"On the Expedia phone app, nowhere in the details did it mention that you had to supply your own bedding, so that was a surprise when we arrived. Talking with the staff, they showed me the details on the laptop version which clearly stated that you had to provide your own bedding and towels. I showed them the phone version which doesn’t mention it at all. What was going to be a relatively cheap stay, turned out to be more expensive than staying at a hotel after having to buy bedding (sleeping...
"The room was spacious enough and very quiet. However when we arrived at 3pm, there were no towels, only a damp one in wardrobe. I had to request towels, and was supplied with 2 bath towels - we (2 of us) were to be there for 2 days! Disappointed too with the limited supply of coffee (3 satchets) milk (enough for only one day - I had to request more milk).
Also, we assumed the room would be serviced while we were out on Saturday and were disappointed to find the wet towels were still there...
"A surprising find and well worth staying here in a quiet cul de sac. Not far from Tauranga central and other amenities. The owners were great and helped us navigate the area. Breakfast was more than ample, quite a feast."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
You can pick up a holiday package to this destination on Expedia. But how much your holiday to Tauranga costs will depend on the length of stay, season and hotel choice.
What are the cheapest months to go to Tauranga?
May, July and August are great times to search for cheap Tauranga holiday packages. Travelling in quieter periods means you can usually find better prices on accommodation and flights.
How many days is enough for Tauranga?
With about 2 days, you'll have plenty of time to enjoy popular neighbourhoods such as Mount Maunganui and Tauranga South during your Tauranga holiday. Remember to also add Waimarino Adventure Park and The Mount Mainstreet to your list of must-sees. Up for some more adventures? Consider exploring outside of Tauranga on day trips and tours.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Tauranga?
It's no wonder a Tauranga holiday is on the must-do list of many travellers. Popular attractions like Tauranga Domain are just the beginning of things to see and do here.
How to find the best Tauranga package deals?
Use Expedia's handy filters to find some great Tauranga package deals. When you begin your search, just set your maximum budget and then order the results by "Price: low to high." If you want to save, plan your escape for midweek, or browse for Tauranga package deals in the off-season. Switch up your travel dates and you may land even bigger discounts. As a rule of thumb, it's usually best to book your holiday package well in advance.
Is it cheaper to book a Tauranga holiday as a package?
You can enjoy significant savings on your Tauranga break by booking a personalised holiday package. Click on the "Package" heading, then enter your travel dates and destination to see some great flight and hotel prices. Bundle everything into a great-value package and you can save hundreds of dollars. Consider adding a car rental and you may score a better deal.
When to book a holiday package to Tauranga?
If you're considering a spur-of-the-moment Tauranga getaway, browse our last-minute deals that can be booked up to a week before you go. Don't want to leave things to the last minute? You can find sensational deals on your hotels and flights by booking ahead.
How to plan a trip to Tauranga?
Pick your travel dates: What you'd like to do in Tauranga and your preferred season can help you decide when to go.
Budget wisely: As well as the cost of your stay, you should factor in other expenses too. These include flights, transportation and food. Also, put aside some extra funds for unexpected costs that may come up during your trip to Tauranga.
Decide how long to go away for: Now that you're up to speed on Tauranga, you can work out the ideal length of your holiday. Put together a rough itinerary and give yourself enough time to cover everything you want to see.
Bundle your bookings: With your travel dates in place, you can combine your car rental, flights, hotels and more into a personalised Tauranga holiday package.
Bayfair Shopping Centre offers a vibrant mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment right in Tauranga. If you're up for a drive, visit the Mount Surf Museum for unique surf gear and memorabilia, perfect for gifts and souvenirs that capture the local culture.
Recreation
Tauranga Domain offers dynamic sports facilities, perfect for invigorating workouts amidst a vibrant atmosphere. For a more tranquil experience, Blake Park provides serene spaces for relaxation and leisure activities. To indulge in rejuvenation, visit the Mount Hot Pools, where soothing thermal waters promise ultimate relaxation and wellness.
Adventure
At Waimarino Adventure Park, enjoy thrilling activities like kayaking and paddleboarding amidst a stunning natural setting, perfect for family fun. Hike the Mount Maunganui Summit Track for breathtaking views and a rewarding outdoor experience. At blokart Recreation Park, race go-karts on a unique outdoor track for an exhilarating adventure.
Nightlife
Tauranga's nightlife buzzes with energy, offering vibrant bars like The Hop House for craft beers and the lively rooftop at The Strand. For a more relaxed vibe, check out the iconic Mount Maunganui for beachfront pubs, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
Find the best attractions in Tauranga
Tauranga offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and scenic beauty, making it an ideal destination for families and eco-conscious travellers. Explore the Tauranga Domain, relax at stunning beaches, and enjoy the picturesque Tauranga Harbour. With options like holiday parks and urban parks, there's something for everyone in this vibrant Bay of Plenty region. Experience the charm of tourism Bay while immersing yourself in Tauranga's natural wonders.
Mount Maunganui: Experience stunning coastal views and the thrill of outdoor adventures at Mount Maunganui. Hike to the summit for panoramic vistas, or relax on the beautiful beaches that surround this iconic mountain, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Memorial Park: This urban park offers a great space for families, featuring lush green areas, playgrounds, and picnic spots. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the pathways while soaking in the city vibes, making it an ideal location for relaxation and social gatherings.
Tenpin Tauranga: Enjoy a fun-filled day at Tenpin Tauranga, where friendly locals welcome you to try your hand at bowling. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-timer, the lively atmosphere and camaraderie make for an unforgettable experience.
Best time to go to Tauranga
The best time to visit Tauranga can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Tauranga falls in February, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Tauranga falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Tauranga
Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Tauranga.
Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically May to June and August) for more affordable package holidays to Tauranga.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.