The Bay of Plenty stretches from the base of the Coromandel Penninsula in the west to Cape Runaway in the east. The Proud Kaimai and Mamaku ranges provide the protection for the Cities and Towns below to bask in the popular Bay sunshine and offer the visitor a wide range of activities within a relatively short distance of travel. The largest city in the Bay of Plenty is Tauranga, in the western area. The region is highly photogenic. For Accommodation in the Bay of Plenty you are spoilt for choice. You’ll feel right at home at any one of the waterfront hotels, Bay of Plenty Hotels, cosy lodges, country retreats and comfortable motels.

The shoreline of the Bay of Plenty can take your breath away. Spectacular beaches attract surfers year round. For diving and angling enthusiasts the offshore islands and reefs offer an abundance of marine life, including game fish. The area is rich in orchards specialising in kiwifruit and citrus and fertile farmland with rolling pastures and gently running streams. A thriving local wine industy and plentiful fresh seafood explains why the region’s restaurant culture is so well developed. Hot natural pools and spas are abundant throughout the area.

The volcanic soils and sunny climate of Katikati provides the perfect stop off point on the main highway south. Kiwifruit and Avocados are the main crops here, so get yourself a bag or two while you are in town. Pick up a mural map from the information centre and make a little time to stroll around the streets among the lifesize murals which adorn the buildings.

For a relaxing therapeutic thermal hot swim, take a break at Sapphire Springs, just 5kms down the road. Covering 78 acres of beautiful bush & forest at the foot of the Kaimai ranges, this lovely park also has a Motor Camp.

There is always something interesting to do in Tauranga and it’s close neighbour Mount Maunganui- from family activities to a romantic stroll down one of the most majestic beaches on the coast. Climb the famous Mauao, soak in the hot pools or sip a coffee overlooking the pure white beach and rolling surf. Dine out in style, shop til you drop, go dolphin watching or take a helicopter flight.

Nearby Papamoa offers the thrill of blokarting around the purpose- built track for an unforgettable land sailing rush. Find out about the kiwifruit industry at kiwi360 in the heart of TePuke “The kiwifruit capital of the world”. Enjoy a guided tour on a kiwicart and the chance to taste all sorts of kiwifruit products in the gift shop or cafe.

Walk the” NgaTapuwae o Toi” walkway at Whakatane. This superb 16km walk passes by ancient pa sites, bird colonies, remote bays and pohutukawa forest. Just off the coast is White Island, New Zealand’s only active marine volcano, rising 321 metres high. Access is by launch or helicopter. Take in the magic of the volcanic energy here as you view steaming fumaroles, bubbling mud and sulphur vents within this private scenic reserve. Diving and snorkelling are popular pastimes.

The timber town of Kawerau is home to the huge Tasman pulp and paper mill. Book a tour to experience the history of the paper industry first hand.Learn about the Bay of Plenty’s strong Maori culture on a guided tour or museum visit at Opotiki. The main street is decorated with the works of master carvers. In summer it is a popular holiday retreat for holiday makers who enjoy the surf beaches, fishing and river activities. Hukutaia Domain, south of the town centre has one of the finest collections of native plants in New Zealand.

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