THE LOCAL LOWDOWN

You’d be hard-pressed to find a bigger fan of Tauranga than Brian Kelly. Kelly, who is also the Coast breakfast host in the Bay of Plenty and Coromandel, moved here in 1975 for work and has loved every minute of it.

‘ When I moved here I fell in love with the place. I love being around and on the water.

There are beautiful beaches, the climate’s great — it ticks all the boxes.

The city has changed a hell of a lot since I moved here. The change is unbelievable.

Back then, there was one licensed restaurant and three grotty hotels on The Strand.

Climbing Mauao to take in the vistas is on the top on my list of things to do in the area. The climb and view never get old.

I also recommend driving up to take in the views from the Minden lookout. You get a totally different perspective on the Bay from up there.

On the way down, I suggest stopping into one of the many fine eateries in Te Puna.

Aside from the brilliant views, the region is lucky to have all the mountain-bike trails such as the Daisy Hardwick harbour trail around the inner Tauranga estuary.

I also enjoy the Kopurererua Valley reserve trail which starts near the Tauranga CBD at 17th Ave near the Historic Village.

It can take you all the way out to The Lakes, with no roads to cross.

You can stop off at a bar and have a beer, then ride all the way back on the other side. They’re used regularly by a lot of people. They’re great.

Even when the sun isn’t shining brightly, there is still lots for people to do. Tauranga residents and visitors alike are treated to hot pools in Mount Maunganui, Welcome Bay and Bethlehem along with wonderful cafes and restaurants and cinemas.

We’re spoilt for choice