Top Things To Do in Tauranga This Summer
Jan 5, 2026
Who doesn’t love the beach, right? The east coast of Aotearoa has plenty of magic with pristine white sand, warm swells, and a coastline that plenty of cities, regions and even countries would envy. You already know the beaches are unbeatable, but here’s what you might not know: other fantastic spots and experiences that Tauranga has to offer.
A Quick Look at Tauranga’s Geography
Tauranga sits in the heart of the Bay of Plenty on the North Island’s east coast. The city sprawls around a stunning natural harbour and includes beachfront suburbs like Mount Maunganui and Pāpāmoa. With warm summers, calm waters and lush native bush within arm’s reach, Tauranga is a dream base for outdoor lovers.
It’s also one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing cities, known for its mix of relaxed coastal living and vibrant foodie spots, boutique shops and buzzing nightlife.
How to Get to Tauranga
From Auckland
It’s an easy 2.5 to 3-hour drive southeast on State Highway 2. Intercity buses also run daily, or you can fly – the trip is around 35 minutes.
From Wellington
Direct flights can get you there in about 1 hour. If driving, allow around 7 hours via Taupō.
From Christchurch
Direct flights run regularly and take roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes. Driving isn’t practical unless you’re on a longer South-to-North roadie.
Renting a Car in Tauranga
A car gives you full freedom to explore beaches, waterfalls, and nearby towns at your own pace.
Top rental companies include:
Hertz Tauranga – https://www.hertz.co.nz
Avis Tauranga – https://www.avis.co.nz
Budget Rentals – https://www.budget.co.nz
Thrifty – https://www.thrifty.co.nz
Most operate directly from Tauranga Airport or central city locations.
Finding a Bach in Tauranga
Whether you’re after a beachfront getaway at the Mount or something peaceful in Pāpāmoa, you’re spoilt for choice.
Try these platforms for the best summer stays:
Airbnb – https://www.airbnb.co.nz
Bookabach – https://www.bookabach.co.nz
Book early – summer fills up fast!
Fun Things To Do in Tauranga
Waimarino Adventure Park
A family favourite offering water slides, jumps, paddleboarding and the iconic blob. Perfect for sunny days when you feel like a mix of fun and relaxation.
https://www.waimarino.com/
Hike Up Mount Maunganui
The most iconic walk in the region. A short but steep track rewards you with unbeatable 360-degree harbour and ocean views. A sunrise or sunset mission is especially memorable.
Fernland Spa
Soak in natural thermal waters surrounded by trees and birdsong. Ideal for winding down after a day in the sun.
https://www.fernlandspa.co.nz/
Hike Moturiki Island
Accessed by a causeway from Mount Maunganui Main Beach, this short walk leads you to blowholes and ocean lookout points.
https://www.bayofplentynz.com/experiences/outdoor-adventures/tracks-and-trails/tracks-and-trails-in-mount-maunganui/moturiki-leisure-island/
Surfing at Mount Maunganui Beach
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned surfer, the Mount serves up consistent summer waves. Local surf schools offer boards and lessons.
Skydiving
For adrenaline junkies, skydiving in Tauranga offers unbeatable views of both coast and countryside.
https://skydivetauranga.com/
Eat and Drink Along The Strand
The waterfront dining strip is packed with bars, breweries, restaurants and live music. Ideal for an evening out after a day in the sun.
Day Trips within 1 Hour of Tauranga
McLaren Falls Park
Just 25 minutes inland, this stunning park has waterfalls, swimming spots, and glowworms at night.
Hobbiton
Head to Matamata to visit the real Middle-earth. Guided tours of the Hobbiton Movie Set are world-famous.
https://www.hobbitontours.com/
Waihi Beach
A classic Kiwi beach town with golden sand, boutique shops and excellent fish and chips.
White Water Rafting at Tutea Falls
Located near Rotorua, this world-class rafting route includes the highest commercially rafted waterfall on the planet.
https://kaitiaki.co.nz/rafting/
Day Trips within 2 Hours of Tauranga
Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland
A surreal, colourful geothermal park known for its bubbling mud pools and Champagne Pool.
https://www.waiotapu.co.nz/
Rotorua
Only an hour away, Rotorua offers geothermal parks, Māori culture, spas, adrenaline activities and incredible mountain biking trails.
Taupō
Explore Huka Falls, lakefront dining, skydiving, jetboating and geothermal walks, all centred around the country’s largest lake.
Waitomo Caves
Famous for glow worms, underground rivers and limestone formations. You can walk, boat or black-water raft through the caves.
https://www.waitomo.com/
Hamilton Gardens
A globally recognised cultural attraction featuring themed gardens from around the world is peaceful and stunning. Entry costs $20 for children over 16 and adults (unless you are a Hamilton resident)
https://hamiltongardens.co.nz/
Wairere Falls
The highest waterfall in the North Island. A rewarding hike with spectacular lookout points over the Waikato region.
https://www.waikatonz.com/walking-and-hiking-trails/wairere-falls-matamata/
Make This Summer One to Remember
Tauranga is the kind of place where you can go from beach to bush to bar in the same afternoon. With postcard-perfect coastlines, world-class day trips and endless sunshine, there’s no better spot to spend your Kiwi summer.
Need extra space at your place in Tauranga?
We supply rental cabins across New Zealand. Contact the RoomMate Cabins Tauranga team or find your nearest supplier here.