Let’s make memories! Events, festivals, markets, bush walks, art,wine, food and fun –
the Bay of Plenty has loads of things to see and do. #bayofplenty
Renowned as a surfing destination, Papamoa Beach is fully patrolled by surf lifesavers in peak season, so the whole family can swim safely between the flags. Plus, we’re only a short drive from the iconic Mount Maunganui surf beach.
Take a surfing lesson or soak up the relaxation in one of the many local hot mineral pools. With some of New Zealand’s highest annual sunshine hours, the Bay of Plenty is a great place to visit any time of the year.
For more great ideas and things to do this week, visit the Bay of Plenty website.
Famous for gorgeous scenery, great surf and glorious sunsets, Papamoa is a laid-back coastal settlement located in the North Island’s spectacular Bay of Plenty.
With just over 20,000 proud locals, Papamoa is the largest suburb in the city of Tauranga. Papamoa is one of New Zealand’s top fishing and surfing spots and is best known for its long stretch of white sand that curves from the Kaituna River towards Mount Maunganui (Mauao).
If the beach is your favourite accessory, you’re in the right place. But there’s more to Papamoa than sun, sea and sand. For one thing, you’re never far from a decent flat white. From real fruit ice cream to vegan treats, Papamoa boasts a diverse range of local restaurants, cafes, supermarkets and retail stores – many conveniently within walking distance of Papamoa Beach Resort.
If it’s an adrenalin rush you’re after visit BloKart Recreation Park – where you can have a blast on their purpose built, wind-operated land-sailing machines (Blo-Karts) or new electric Drift Karts!
The Papamoa Hills Regional Park (Te Rae o Papamoa) is a must-see walking track, which meanders through pine forest, native bush and open grassland. It showcases the terracing on several historic Māori pa sites. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from the summit that span across Papamoa and the nearby islands of Motiti, Matakana, Rangiwaea and Tuhua.
Brought your bikes? Papamoa boasts a network of tree-lined waterways with gravel paths perfect for bike rides. Feed the ducks, entertain the kids and experience our beachside neighbourhood.
More questions? Visit our FAQ page.
Only 20 minutes’ drive from Papamoa Beach Resort, Mount Maunganui sparkles with mile after mile of white sandy beaches and the enticing blue ocean. For decades, the area has held irresistible charm for visitors and locals alike. This seaside resort town, affectionately known by the 15,000 locals as ‘the Mount’, draws thousands of holidaymakers every summer.
With sparkling white sands and the crashing surf beach on the one side and a tranquil, sheltered harbour (Pilot Bay) on the other, magnificent Mauao (Mount Maunganui) stands tall and proud, dominating the region. Walk the wonderful base track or venture up to the top where you will be rewarded with gasp-worthy views of the area.
World class cafés, boutique shops and restaurants line the Mount Maunganui main street andin the summer months you can enjoy some of the great organised activities and events: Little Big Markets, Half Iron Man, Weetbix Kiwi Kids Triathlon or the National Beach Volleyball Championships.
Swimming recommendations: The top spot for swimming is the Main Beach, located at the foot of mighty Mauao (Mount Maunganui), facing the Pacific Ocean. On the opposite side of Mauao is the sheltered harbourside of Pilot Bay, which is a launching pad for boats and kayaks. It’s also a shallow swimming spot, ideal for kayaking, paddle-boarding and families with young children.
Just 20 minutes’ drive from Papamoa Beach Resort, the vivacious, waterfront city of Tauranga is the main centre of the western Bay of Plenty region. With a population of 110,000, Tauranga is one of the fastest growing areas in the country. The city is famous for its beautiful natural environment, numerous places to eat, shop and socialise.
Located at the entrance to one of the largest natural harbours in New Zealand and nestled beside the magnificent Mauao (Mount Maunganui), Tauranga is also home to the country’s biggest export port, Port of Tauranga.
The harbour hosts many cruise ship visits each summer and is popular with windsurfers, jet skiers, paddle-boarders and water activity-lovers of all kinds.
Two large marinas hold more than 1,000 yachts and launches with many charter boat operators taking keen game fishers out to the internationally renowned deep sea fishing waters of the Bay of Plenty. Swimming with dolphins and scuba diving is also enjoyed by many,with wrecks, reefs and volcanic islands to explore underwater.
Downtown Tauranga has several historically significant areas to view during a scenic walk around the area. The Strand waterfront area has undergone a major redevelopment in the past few years, and the changes include a large children’s play area featuring sculptures of renowned children’s book author Lynley Dodd’s famous characters, including Hairy Maclary. Comfortable seating areas and nearby cafés, restaurants and pubs offer a relaxing, waterfront vibe. At night, The Strand comes alive with a vibrant nightlife.