Tauranga is a vibrant coastal city perfect for first-time visitors seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure. Start your day with a stroll along The Strand, where you'll find waterfront cafés, restaurants, and boutique shops. Take a short drive to Mount Maunganui, where you can walk up Mauao for breathtaking panoramic views or unwind on New Zealand's most iconic surf beach. Explore the local arts scene at the Tauranga Art Gallery, or take a dip in the saltwater Mount Hot Pools. For a taste of nature, head to McLaren Falls Park for bush walks and waterfalls, or join a dolphin-watching cruise in the Bay of Plenty. Whether you're after scenic beauty, local culture, or beachside fun, Tauranga offers something for everyone.
Cycling
Cycling in Tauranga offers a superb blend of scenic beauty, varied terrain, and something fun for every level of rider. Flat, family-friendly trails like the Sulphur Point-Fergusson Park loop and the Waikareao Estuary loop wind along harbourfront boardwalks and through mangroves for peaceful outings close to the city.
For a longer ride, the 19km Ōmokoroa Coastal Cycle Trail offers stunning coastal views, and guided e-bike tours provide cultural insights as you pedal.
Nature lovers will enjoy the 6km Kopurererua Valley Reserve path, which loops through wetlands and connects leafy parks.
If you're craving more excitement, head to the TECT All Terrain Park, Oropi Grove, or Summerhill Mountain Bike Park for off-road loops through forest single-track.
Mount Hot Pools
Mount Hot Pools is a truly unique attraction nestled at the base of Mauao (Mount Maunganui), offering an unforgettable experience with its naturally heated ocean saltwater pools ranging from about 32°C to 39°C.
The complex features a variety of pools – including a relaxation pool, hydrotherapy/swim pool, children's pool with a slide, two outdoor spas, and three indoor private sanctuary pools – making it ideal for families, couples, and solo travellers alike.
Soaking here is said to benefit the body and mind: the mineral-rich seawater gently soothes muscles and joints while the warm temperatures help detoxify and promote well-being. For a truly indulgent treat, you can book one of the shaded private pools or opt for an onsite massage to complete your relaxation session.
Mauao – also known as Mount Maunganui or "The Mount" – is a must-visit landmark for any first-time tourist in Tauranga. This extinct volcanic cone rises 232 metres above the peninsula, offering a range of scenic walks that suit all fitness levels.
You can choose between a leisurely 3.4km base loop through coastal boardwalks in about 45 minutes or a more challenging summit ascent via the Waikorire or Oruahine tracks, taking roughly 40-45 minutes to reach the top.
From the summit, the reward is spectacular: 360° views stretching from the Pacific Ocean and Papamoa beaches to Tauranga Harbour, Matakana Island, and the Kaimāi Ranges — a vantage point that truly makes the climb worth it.
The Elms
The Elms is a captivating slice of New Zealand history nestled in the heart of the city. Established in the 1830s as the Te Papa Mission Station, the site features one of the finest surviving Georgian missionary homesteads – built from kauri logs in 1847 – and New Zealand's oldest free-standing library filled with original books belonging to Reverend Alfred Nesbit Brown.
Set within 2.5 hectares of award-winning heritage gardens, The Elms blends indigenous and early European plantings – anchored by the country's oldest oak tree – and teeming with birdlife.
Ideal for a leisurely morning visit, visitors can also explore the mission cemetery and enjoy a picnic amid tranquil gardens.
McLaren Falls Park
McLaren Falls Park, located just a 10-minute drive from Tauranga, is a stunning 190-hectare parkland beside Lake McLaren – perfect for a blend of adventure and relaxation.
From easy lakeside walks and picnic spots with BBQs to kayaking, trout fishing, and even disc golf, there's something for every pace and interest. The highlight is the charming Waterfall Track, a short, accessible loop through lush native bush that leads to a small waterfall – and come evening, glowworms light up the path, creating a magical woodland experience.
Families will also enjoy Marshalls Animal Park within the grounds, where you can feed and meet friendly farm and exotic animals.
Dolphin & Wildlife Experiences
Tauranga offers unforgettable dolphin and wildlife experiences perfect for nature-loving tourists. Hop aboard a half-day cruise with operators like Bay Explorer, departing at 9am from The Strand, and spend 4-5 hours exploring the stunning Bay of Plenty coastline and islands. On the water, you're likely to encounter playful pods of common dolphins along with seabirds, seals, penguins, whales, sunfish, turtles, and occasionally orca.
If you're after something more adventurous, providers like Dolphin Seafaris or Dolphin Blue offer small-group adventures where you can snorkel or swim alongside wild dolphins – with wetsuit and snorkel gear provided – while enjoying morning tea onboard.
