Activities & attractions in the Bay of Plenty
Tauranga, and the Bay of Plenty area offer many amazing and fun things to try. Students can explore natural sites, shop at markets or try outdoor adventure activities!
Activities & attractions in the Bay of Plenty
Tauranga, and the Bay of Plenty area offer many amazing and fun things to try. Students can explore natural sites, shop at markets or try outdoor adventure activities!
Things to see and do in Tauranga and surrounding areas
Outdoor Adventures
- Cycling or mountain biking along the many trails, including the Te Ara Ahi Cycle Trail.
- Zip-lining and tree canopy tours through the beautiful forests.
- Bungee jumping and skydiving.
Animal Encounters
- Exploring wildlife sanctuaries and bird reserves.
- Visiting working farms to learn about New Zealand’s farming practices and interact with farm animals.
- Wildlife tours and cruises to observe seals, dolphins, whale watching and marine birds in their natural habitats.
Dining, Cafes & Restaurants
- Taste local and international food at various restaurants and cafes, including waterfront dining.
- Enjoy takeaway (fast food) options with a wide variety of international flavours.
Shopping & Markets
- Exploring boutique shops and shopping centres for unique souvenirs, fashion, and artistic products.
- Attend local market days and themed festivals to find local goods and crafts.
Beach and Water Activities
- Swimming, surfing, and sunbathing at beautiful beaches like Mount Maunganui Beach and Pāpāmoa Beach.
- Kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing in the coastal waters.
- Sport and recreational fishing in rivers and ocean.
- Scenic boat tours.
Cultural Experiences
- Visiting cultural centres like Te Puia and Whakarewarewa Village to learn about Māori culture, traditional performances, and art.
- Attending cultural festivals and events that showcase local customs, music, and dance.
- Exploring Māori historical sites and landmarks, such as Mauao (Mount Maunganui) and Otarawairere Bay.
- Visit local museums and art galleries, such as the Tauranga Art Gallery and the Rotorua Museum.
Outdoor Exploration
- Exploring geothermal parks like Wai-O-Tapu and Hell’s Gate to witness geysers, mud pools, and colourful hot springs.
- Hiking and nature walks in scenic areas such as the Kaimai-Mamaku Forest Park and the Whakarewarewa Forest.
- Enjoying natural hot pools and spas for relaxation and rejuvenation, such as the Polynesian Spa in Rotorua.
- Camping in local campgrounds and national parks.
Want to know more?
// Explore Tauranga with Tourism Bay of Plenty
// Find out what’s on in Tauranga
// Find out more about Tauranga, Bay of Plenty.
// Visit the Tauranga Art Gallery
// Learn about accommodation options in Tauranga
// Find out about Tauranga Resources for local and international students.
Learn more about living in Tauranga
Tauranga extends a warm and inviting atmosphere to international students, making it an ideal destination to pursue their educational aspirations. Join a vibrant community that embraces diversity!