Discover the ‘Coast with the Most’ in sunny Tauranga, the fastest growing city in New Zealand.

Captain Cook found abundant supplies here and named this coast the Bay of Plenty. Today there is indeed plenty to attract visitors. Tauranga has the most sunshine hours in the North Island, a bountiful harvest of fruit and a big-hearted welcome for visitors. The relaxed lifestyle here is focused on the beaches, è la carte restaurants (serving local award winning wines), sidewalk cafès and shops.

Tauranga is surrounded by a clean sandy harbour protected from the sea by a 24 km barrier of sand dunes called Matakana Island. The harbour entrance is dominated by the imposing volcanic cone of Mt. Maunganui. It overlooks Ocean Beach which is a prime holiday location.

The city has an interesting Historic Village with a collection of restored colonial buildings. On special occasions volunteers dress up in period costumes. On permanent display in the city centre is a traditional Maori war canoe with very ornate carvings. Robbins Park is a quiet oasis with a delightful rose garden. The Fernland Hot Pools are a great spot for relaxation.

There is no shortage of adrenalin pumping activities in the northern Bay of Plenty and local operators offer bungee rockets, parachuting, sky diving, parasailing, micro lighting, white water rafting, jet boating, fishing and diving. If you would like to try your hand at something new the dirt track luge is a worthwhile challenge.

The Kaimai-Mamaku Forest Park forms the backdrop to Tauranga. This very accessible wilderness area has multi-day tramping routes for the adventurous and also a selection of short day walks.

Mayor Island, a volcanic cone some 25 kms offshore, is a major attraction for visitors. A glittering jewel in the blue Pacific offering the perfect escape – snorkelling in clear waters and swimming with dolphins in their natural environment. Park rangers offer guided tours to interpret the flora, fauna and geology of the island.

Tauranga offers an abundance of good things – the best fun under the sun.