Where to stay in Bay of Plenty
Mount Maunganui
Mount Maunganui is popular for its beaches, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Pilot Bay Beach or Maunganui Beach.
Bay of Plenty
Fly above an active volcano, swim with dolphins or watch cruise ships dock as you enjoy oysters and wine overlooking this huge bay.
Stretching across the North Island’s north coast between Coromandel Peninsula and Cape Runaway, the Bay of Plenty deserves its name. Captain James Cook provided this English description while sailing past its bountiful shores. Relax on its 125 kilometres (80 miles) of sandy coastline.
Visit the Bay of Plenty region to sample succulent kiwi fruits straight from the tree, watch humpback whales breach the water or surf some of New Zealand’s best breaks at the foot of an active volcano. Enjoy plenty of ways to see the Bay of Plenty in the major coastal towns spread out around the bay and one of New Zealand’s major harbours at its western end.
At Cape Runaway, the enormous Port of Tauranga welcomes cruise ships from around the world. Perch yourself above the harbour to watch ships roll in across the bay or board one yourself to explore New Zealand’s vast coastal offerings.
You don’t need to take a multi-day cruise ship to see the Bay of Plenty. Embark on a charter from Tauranga to catch game fish in the bay or venture to the islands dotted around the sea. Sail aboard a yacht to White Island or Whakaari, an active volcano just 50 kilometres (30 miles) from shore.
At the base of Mauao, the Bay of Plenty’s other prominent volcano, find some of the country’s best surf. Paddle out at Mount Maunganui, a popular resort town, to test your skills alongside locals. Surf amid pods of dolphins and watch for whales in deeper water as you sit atop your board.
Enjoy cultural and culinary offerings in the region’s many towns. Visit Whakatāne for some of the highest temperatures in New Zealand or Katikati for its fresh fruit and historic murals.
The Bay of Plenty is a 3-hour drive south of Auckland and can be reached by car, bus or train. Find hotels and resorts throughout the bay, with the highest concentration around Tauranga.
Top hotels in Bay of Plenty
Reviewed on May 27, 2024
Reviewed on May 14, 2024
Reviewed on Apr 1, 2024
Frequently asked questions
Popular places to visit
Coromandel Peninsula
Sunbathe on golden sandy beaches, hike through beautiful native forests and stay in many attractive small towns when visiting this peninsula.
Mount Maunganui
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Mount Maunganui during your travels in Tauranga. Wander the area's beautiful beaches or simply enjoy one of its charming cafes.
Whangamata Beach
If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, Whangamata Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Whangamata. Stroll along the waterfront or visit the spas while you're in the area.