Bay of Plenty
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.