Overview

The Bay of Plenty (Te Moana-a-Toi) is a sun-drenched coastal region on New Zealand’s North Island, famed for its golden beaches, geothermal wonders, Māori culture, and abundant fruit orchards. From the lively beach city of Tauranga to the volcanic landscapes of Whakatāne and the spiritual heart of Rotorua, the Bay of Plenty offers a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation.

  • Main Cities & Towns: Tauranga, Rotorua, Whakatāne, Te Puke, Ōpōtiki, Katikati
  • Population: ~350,000 (2024 est.)
  • Time Zone: New Zealand Standard Time (NZST) UTC+12 / NZDT (Daylight Saving)
  • Climate: Subtropical — warm summers and mild winters, with plenty of sunshine

Top Destinations in Bay of Plenty

Tauranga & Mount Maunganui

A vibrant harbourside city with a laid-back beach suburb. Climb “The Mount” for panoramic views or relax on the surf-pounded shores below.

Rotorua

A geothermal and cultural hotspot with bubbling mud pools, erupting geysers, and powerful Māori experiences.

Whakatāne

A coastal town and departure point for tours to Whakaari/White Island — a marine volcano — and rich in Māori mythology.

Te Puke

The “Kiwifruit Capital of the World,” surrounded by orchards and agricultural beauty.

Ōpōtiki & Eastern Bay

A gateway to remote beaches, mountain biking trails, and Māori cultural communities.

Must-See Attractions

  • Mount Maunganui Summit Walk – A must-do hike with 360° coastal views
  • Polynesian Spa (Rotorua) – Soak in geothermal mineral pools overlooking Lake Rotorua
  • Te Puia – See the powerful Pōhutu Geyser and learn Māori arts and carving
  • Whakaari / White Island Scenic Flights – View New Zealand’s most active volcano from the air
  • Hells Gate Geothermal Park – Mud baths, hot springs, and Māori legends

Things to Do

  • Relax on beaches like Papamoa, Waihi, and Ōhope (often named NZ’s best beach)
  • Experience Māori culture through hangi feasts, traditional performances, and guided tours
  • Explore geothermal parks like Wai-O-Tapu and Waimangu
  • Swim with dolphins or go sea kayaking in Tauranga Harbour
  • Cycle the Motu Trails or hike the coastal and forest tracks

Getting There & Around

Airports

  • Tauranga Airport (TRG), Rotorua Airport (ROT), Whakatāne Airport (WHK)

Transport

  • Intercity buses link major towns
  • Rental cars recommended for full regional access
  • Local buses operate in Tauranga, Rotorua, and Whakatāne

Best Time to Visit

  • Summer (Dec–Feb): Perfect beach weather and festival season
  • Autumn (Mar–May): Mild temps, fewer crowds, and beautiful orchard colors
  • Winter (Jun–Aug): Great for hot pools and cultural attractions
  • Spring (Sep–Nov): Blooming gardens and orchard blossoms

Local Food & Culture

  • Cuisine: Fresh seafood, Māori hāngī, kiwifruit, avocado, and award-winning cheeses
  • Specialties: Green-lipped mussels, whitebait fritters, manuka honey, and craft cider
  • Markets: Tauranga Farmers’ Market, Rotorua Night Market, Whakatāne Sunday Market
  • Events: Tauranga Jazz Festival, Rotorua Marathon, Matariki Celebrations, Beach Hop (Waihi)
  • Māori Culture: Deeply woven into the region’s identity — experience authentic pōwhiri welcomes, storytelling, kapa haka, and carving

Souvenirs from Bay of Plenty

  • Māori carvings and pounamu (greenstone)
  • Rotorua mud skincare and geothermal bath salts
  • Kiwifruit products and local honey
  • Art, jewelry, and crafts from local markets

Fun Facts

  • Rotorua smells like sulphur because of its intense geothermal activity — locals get used to it!
  • The Bay of Plenty was named by Captain James Cook in 1769 for its abundant food and friendly people
  • Whakaari / White Island is New Zealand’s only active marine volcano
  • Te Puke is home to the world’s largest kiwifruit sculpture

Suggested Itineraries

3-Day Beach & Geothermal Escape

  • Day 1: Tauranga – climb Mount Maunganui + sunset beach walk
  • Day 2: Rotorua – Te Puia, geysers, mud baths + Māori cultural evening
  • Day 3: Whakatāne – coastal walk or White Island scenic flight

5-Day Bay of Plenty Adventure

  • Day 1: Tauranga city + dolphin cruise
  • Day 2: Mount Maunganui hike + Papamoa shopping
  • Day 3: Rotorua hot pools + Redwoods Treewalk
  • Day 4: Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland + Lake Rotoiti kayak
  • Day 5: Ōhope Beach relaxation + local food tour

Cities

  • Tauranga