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Top reasons to visit Thornton

• Stunning Beaches: Thornton Bay boasts beautiful beaches perfect for sunbathing and swimming, offering breathtaking views of the coastline.
• Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy paddle boarding, hiking, and exploring nearby waterfalls for an active day in nature.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Visit local water parks and picnic areas, ensuring fun for all ages.
• Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in the local culture at nearby cultural centres and events.
• Relaxing Accommodation: Choose from a variety of comfortable accommodation options, including motels and unique stays.

Find great hotels near Thornton

Discover the charm of Thornton, Bay of Plenty, with a variety of accommodation options to suit every traveller. From comfortable motels to unique agritourism properties, you'll find ideal places for adventure seekers and eco-conscious holidaymakers alike. Whether you’re looking for holiday homes or business-friendly hotels, Thornton and nearby Whakatāne offer a delightful blend of relaxation and excitement for your perfect getaway.

• Whakatane Holiday Park: Nestled within the scenic beauty of the Bay of Plenty, Whakatane Holiday Park offers a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. Located 8.0km from Thornton, this holiday park is perfect for those who appreciate a touch of nature with their accommodation. Guests can unwind with entertainment options like television and satellite TV, while the nearby attractions include a charming shopping district, the vibrant city centre, and picturesque riverwalks. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, the park provides ample opportunities for exploration and leisure, making it a fantastic choice for a memorable vacation.
• 37 THE Landing Motel: For travellers seeking a touch of luxury, 37 THE Landing Motel stands out with its 5-star rating and family-friendly approach. Situated 8.0km from Thornton, this motel caters to both business and leisure guests alike. With dedicated business services and amenities, including access to the nearby business district, it is well-equipped for corporate travellers. Families will appreciate the complimentary crib services, ensuring a comfortable stay for little ones. The motel's commitment to providing a sophisticated yet welcoming environment makes it a prime choice for those looking to blend work and play.
• Livingston Motel: Positioned 8.0km from Thornton, Livingston Motel is a 4-star accommodation that prioritises business travellers. With its excellent facilities, including a well-equipped business centre, guests can stay productive while enjoying their time away. The motel’s focus on providing a professional atmosphere without compromising on comfort makes it ideal for those on work trips. Guests can expect modern amenities and a convenient location, ensuring a pleasant and efficient stay in the beautiful Bay of Plenty region.

Where to stay near Thornton

Thornton, nestled in the stunning Bay of Plenty region, offers an unforgettable getaway for families and eco-conscious travellers alike. Just a stone's throw from the vibrant town of Whakatāne, you can enjoy beautiful beaches, lush outdoor adventures, and friendly locals. Explore recreational spots that promise relaxation and fun, making your holiday a perfect blend of luxury and adventure in this picturesque corner of New Zealand.

• Whakatane: Nestled approximately 10 kilometres from Thornton, Whakatane is a vibrant city known for its stunning outdoor experiences and eco-friendly ethos. The city attracts visitors year-round, with peak times in April and during the festive season from December to January. Enjoy a range of activities, including relaxing at local spas or hitting the greens at the golf courses. Whakatane's nearby attractions, such as its beautiful beaches, lush parks, and serene lakes, offer plenty of opportunities for families and nature lovers to explore and unwind.
• Ohope: Located about 14 kilometres from Thornton, Ohope is a charming suburb renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere and outdoor adventures. The peak tourist season runs from December to February, making it a lively spot during the summer months. Visitors can indulge in spa treatments or play a round of golf while soaking in the stunning coastal views. Ohope Beach, with its golden sands, and local parks provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation and family fun, ensuring a memorable experience for all.
• Awakeri: Just 6.5 kilometres from Thornton, Awakeri is a delightful suburb that offers a mix of outdoor activities and family-friendly attractions. The best times to visit are in September and the festive season from December to January. Awakeri boasts a water park for the kids and relaxing spas for adults, making it an ideal destination for families. With nearby beaches, natural hot springs, and picturesque parks, Awakeri provides a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for visitors looking to immerse themselves in nature.

Things to do near Thornton

Thornton offers a perfect blend of outdoor activities and family-friendly fun, making it ideal for eco-conscious travellers. Enjoy a relaxing day at the spa or have a splash at the water park. There are also picnic areas for a delightful lunch, paddle boarding for water enthusiasts, and various tourist shops to explore. Don't miss the chance for outdoor adventures and events at Spark Arena, ensuring a memorable holiday experience in the Bay of Plenty.

Shopping

In Thornton, you can enjoy local shops offering unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit the Bayfair Shopping Centre in Mount Maunganui, about 19.3km away, where you'll find a mix of popular retail brands and local boutiques.

Recreation

At Whakatane Golf Club, enjoy a round of golf amidst stunning landscapes, with a friendly outdoor atmosphere just a short drive from Thornton. For family fun, the Whakatane Aquatic Centre offers a range of water activities, ensuring a refreshing day for all ages.

Adventure

Experience the Whakatane River Walk, located 9.7km from Thornton, where you can immerse yourself in nature while enjoying picturesque river views. This outdoor adventure is perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling, offering a refreshing escape in the beautiful Bay of Plenty region.

Nightlife

In Thornton, the local pubs offer a relaxed atmosphere with live music and friendly locals. You can enjoy a laid-back evening at the surf club, where stunning ocean views complement a chilled vibe. Don't miss the chance to mingle and experience true Kiwi hospitality.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Thornton

To save money on your trip to Thornton, consider visiting in May, August, or November when accommodation prices are lower. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia to refine your accommodation preferences and find eco-friendly options. Look for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for added savings. Take advantage of free activities available in the area to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Thornton are May, August and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Thornton is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Thornton is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will show you sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Thornton hotel booking with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Thornton

Thornton, located in the stunning Bay of Plenty Region, offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences ideal for family and eco-friendly vacations. Visitors can explore the refreshing hotsprings, immerse themselves in local culture at the cultural centre, and marvel at nearby waterfalls. Don’t miss the beautiful Thornton Bay, which adds to the charm of this scenic destination.

• Awakeri Hot Springs: Located 8.0km from Thornton, Awakeri Hot Springs offers a tranquil oasis for wellness and relaxation. Immerse yourself in the natural thermal pools surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
• Te Manuka Tutahi Marae: Situated 9.7km away, Te Manuka Tutahi Marae is a cultural centre that invites visitors to experience Māori culture. Engage with local traditions, stories, and art, making it a profound and enriching stop on your journey.
• Wairere Falls: Just 9.7km from Thornton, Wairere Falls presents a stunning waterfall surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Ideal for outdoor adventures, it’s a romantic spot for couples and a fantastic location for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Best time to go to Thornton

The best time to visit Thornton is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. January and February are its hottest month on average. At the time of February, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	63.5°F (17.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
February	63.5°F (17.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
March	60.1°F (15.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	56.1°F (13.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
May	51.4°F (10.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
June	47.8°F (8.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
July	45.9°F (7.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
August	46.9°F (8.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
September	49.3°F (9.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
October	52.7°F (11.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	56.8°F (13.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	61.0°F (16.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Thornton

Accessing Thornton in the Bay of Plenty Region is convenient via three major airports. Whakatane Airport (WHK) is the closest, situated 1.6km away, with excellent accommodation options like the 5-star 37 THE Landing Motel, located 6.4km from the airport. Rotorua Regional Airport (ROT) is 36.4km from Thornton, where you can find luxurious stays such as Silver Fern Rotorua Suites & Spa and Pullman Rotorua, both around 8.0km away. Tauranga Airport (TRG) is another option, located 67.6km from Thornton, with nearby hotels like the 4.5-star Trinity Wharf Tauranga just 1.6km from the airport, providing easy access for travellers.