A feast of fun

No other region, arguably, lives up to its name more than the Bay of Plenty. Its biggest city, Tauranga, has gone through a boom in recent years and enjoyed an influx of quality eateries and shops while maintaining its pristine, natural landscape and attractions. And the wider region has it all for adrenaline junkies and water lovers. But what are the top 10 things visitors should do? Jean Bell reports. 1 Conquer Mauao

It is no mistake that climbing this 232m-high summit is at the top of our list. The panoramic views of the Bay of Plenty area are truly breathtaking. The climb can be tackled at any time of the day, but you won’t regret going at dawn or dusk to catch a glorious sunset or sunrise. You could even pack a picnic and enjoy a feed while you’re at it. If you’re not in the mood for packing some kai, there is also the option of completing the hike then heading to a nearby eatery for a well-deserved meal. Be sure to wear clothes you’re willing to get sweaty in. The walk takes about 40 minutes and requires a good level of fitness.

2 Pack a picnic and visit freshwater swimming holes

While Mount Maunganui and Mauao might be one of the main attractions of Tauranga, don’t let the beauty of the beach blind you to the other swimming options. Hop, step, and jump across rocks to have a dip in the Poripori or McLaren Falls swimming holes, both of which are in the lower Kaimāī Range.

3 Get the heart pumping

If strolling on the beach is too mellow for you, fear not, for the Bay has plenty to get the adrenaline pumping. You can catch the surfing buzz by taking a lesson at any of the surf schools along the Mount Maunganui main beach. Waimarino Adventure Park offers a water trampoline, New Zealand’s only kayak slide, kayaking, a gladiator pole, Tarzan swings, and heaps more. Blokarting at Baypark is a great option for the whole family. Kids from as young as 8 can have a go and it’s super-easy to learn. At the TECT All Terrain Park, you can unleash your inner child on Airsoft, clay target shooting, paintball, running, walking and mountain biking. This playground for grown-ups also has horse riding trails and a dog park.

4 Walk it off

There is no shortage of walks in Tauranga. The Daisy Hardwick/Waikareao Estuary walk is a 9km walking and cycling loop suitable for all ages. It takes you over boardwalks and through native bush. The Mauao base track is a pleasant, 3.4km stroll alongside crashing ocean waves and ocean views. You could also stroll along Mount Maunganui beach to Moturiki Island (also known as Leisure Island). This one is suitable for kids, with heaps of rock pools to explore. The Pāpāmoa Hills Regional Park rewards its walkers with incredible views overlooking the area. The Kaiate Falls walk is a beautiful trek. If that is not enough, check out the volunteer-run Te Puna Quarry Park and pack a picnic lunch to munch on after you have explored the ponds, gardens, butterflies and panoramic views.

5 Take a day trip to Whakatāne

There is plenty to do in Whakatāne so keep on your list. It is about an hour’s drive from Tauranga and you can take a tour of Moutohora (Whale Island), visit Julian’s Berry Farm to pick fresh berries or enjoy a real fruit ice cream, or go on a Kiwi Night Walk to catch the sound of kiwi calling and rustling through native bush. Take a walk on the Ngā Tapuwae o Toi walkway, which connects Whakatãne township and Ōhope Beach and grab a meal or go for a dip in the sea.

6 . . . or to Waihī

Waihī township and the nearby Waihī Beach are about 40 minutes’ drive from Tauranga and there are a range of options to keep you entertained. Waihī Beach offers upmarket eateries and shops and a gorgeous beach. You can also pack a picnic and head along the Orokawa Bay walkway for a stroll. Once you’re done there, you can head on to the Waihī township. From there, you can

walk or cycle alongside Ohinemuri River on the Karangahake Gorge walkway. Take a nostalgic train trip in the Tramway Ride Museum and the Goldfields Railway before checking out the history on display at the Waihī Arts Centre and Museum. You can learn the ins and outs of gold mining at the Gold Discovery Centre and stroll along the Waihī Martha Mine Pit Rim Walkway.

7 Eat your heart out

Even with all the physical activities on offer, it will be a challenge to not head home a couple of kilograms heavier with the bounty of eateries on offer. From the wholesome but delicious sweet treats and sandwiches on offer at Love Rosie Bakery to the delicious Vietnamese-inspired Rice Rice Baby, there is something for every taste bud. You can count on a quality feed at upmarket cafes Little Guy, Eddie + Elspeth and Henry and Ted. For a more humble but delicious option, Zest Cafe in Greerton has your back. If you’re after something a bit more glitzy, Harbourside and Alpino restaurants are the places for you, but if you want to keep it simple, fish and chips on the beach will never go astray.

8 Shop til you drop

Tauranga has been treated to an explosion of shopping options in recent years. From the boutique and quirky Our Place, to the glitzy Tauranga Crossing, there is something for everyone. While Tauranga is now home to big-name brands such as Mecca and H&M, you shouldn’t overlook Sisters, Augustine, Chaos and Harmony and Repertoire, along with a mouthwatering range of quality second-hand shops such as Recycle Boutique, Tallulah and Wear Together.

9 Get cultured at the Historic Village

Lose yourself in the gorgeous old character buildings with cobblestone paving at the Historic Village. History nerds can also get their fix with the heritage displays, and shopaholics will be satisfied with the range of quirky shops, including a vinyl shop and second-hand clothing stores. The Village is also home to a theatre, art galleries, livemusic venues, and a tattoo studio. For some dangerously good doughnuts, Whipped Baker Cafe has you sorted.

10 Fly high

Take a wander down memory lane at the Classic Flyers Aviation Museum.

Lose yourself in the museum which boasts thousands of items that display our rich aviation history, including some of New Zealand’s best classic and vintage aircraft along with static and hands-on displays.

Enjoy a meal in the themed cafe afterwards, or for the more adventurous, head over to SkyDive Tauranga at Tauranga Airport to feel the rush during a tandem skydive.