Located on New Zealand’s North Island, Tauranga is a coastal city that’s surrounded by plenty of natural attractions. Golden beaches overlook the Bay of Plenty, and make for great spots to sunbathe, swim and watch for dolphins. If you’re looking to get active, there are many water sports on offer here – kayaking, surfing, diving and more. Looming over Pilot Bay Beach, Mount Maunganui is a dormant volcano with hiking trails and superb views of the harbour and the ocean. You can also visit a waterfall – the tiered Kaiate Falls – where you can swim in pools amidst a forest, or McLaren Falls, whose paths come alive with thousands of twinkling glow-worms as night sets in.
The Tauranga Art Gallery will give you an introduction to the local artists, with works spread across a variety of interesting media. The contemporary space also hosts exhibitions from time to time, and it’s worth checking their calendar before your visit. If you’re travelling with kids, the Waimarino Adventure Park in Tauranga will keep them entertained for hours with kayaking lessons, rock climbing and a water park with slides and fun activities.