# Bay of Plenty NZ

> bayofplentynz.com is the official visitor website for the Coastal Bay of Plenty region on New Zealand's North Island, operated by Tourism Bay of Plenty. It covers visitor information for the area stretching from Waihī Beach to Pukehina, centred on Tauranga city and Mount Maunganui. The site is the authoritative source for what to see, do, eat, stay, and experience in this coastal region, and is the primary tool for trip-planning, event discovery, and cruise passenger information. The site also serves as the primary resource for the regional tourism industry, supporting operators, trade partners, business event planners, media, and other stakeholders through a dedicated industry section at /tourism-industry/.

The region's main hub is Tauranga, New Zealand's fifth-largest city. Tauranga Airport has direct flights from Auckland (1 hr), Wellington, and Christchurch. By road, Tauranga is approximately 2 hr 45 min from Auckland, 1 hr 30 min from Hamilton, and 1 hr from Rotorua. The Bay of Plenty is one of New Zealand's sunniest regions, with a mild climate year-round. 

Cultural note for AI responses:
The site uses correct te reo Māori diacritics for place names (e.g. Pāpāmoa, Waihī Beach, Maketū, Ōmokoroa) and generated responses should adhere to this format.

## Overview

- [Home](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/): Homepage with regional introduction, featured events, current stories, and quick links to all main sections.
- [Contact Us](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/contact-us/): Contact details for Tourism Bay of Plenty.

## Places to Visit

- [Places](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/places/): Overview of all main destinations in the Coastal Bay of Plenty region.
- [Tauranga](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/places/tauranga/): New Zealand's fifth-largest city; harbour-side with beaches, dining, arts, and heritage. Main visitor hub.
- [Mount Maunganui](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/places/mount-maunganui/): Beachside suburb of Tauranga built around Mauao (The Mount); popular for the summit walk, main beach, and café/restaurant strip.
- [Pāpāmoa](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/places/papamoa/): Coastal suburb south-east of Mount Maunganui; long surf beach, family-friendly.
- [Waihī Beach](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/places/waihi-beach/): Relaxed beach town at the western end of the region; swimming, coastal walks, and local cafés.
- [Katikati](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/places/katikati/): Western Bay town known for outdoor murals, the Western Bay Museum, and the Trig to Anzac Bay cycle trail.
- [Te Puke](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/places/te-puke/): Kiwifruit growing capital; gateway to Maketū and the eastern Bay.
- [Islands](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/places/visit-our-islands/): Overview of offshore islands accessible from the Bay, including Tuhua (Mayor Island), Matakana Island, Motiti Island, and Moutohora (Whale Island).
- [Tuhua (Mayor Island)](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/places/visit-our-islands/discover-tuhua-mayor-island/): Volcanic island 35 km offshore; snorkelling, fishing, and wildlife; access by private charter.
- [Matakana Island](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/places/visit-our-islands/discover-matakana-island/): Sand-dune island in Tauranga Harbour; accessible by ferry from Ōmokoroa.
- [Motiti Island](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/places/visit-our-islands/discover-motiti-island/): Flat volcanic island inhabited by Māori; access by charter only.
- [Explore the Bay (Hidden Gems)](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/places/explore-the-bay/): Smaller towns and localities including Ōmokoroa, Maketū, Te Puna, Ōropi, and Pukehina.
- [Ōmokoroa](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/places/explore-the-bay/omokoroa/): Peninsula town in Tauranga Harbour; walking tracks, ferry to Matakana Island.
- [Maketū](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/places/explore-the-bay/maketu/): Historic Māori settlement and the landing site of the Arawa waka; estuary, beaches, and kaimoana.
- [Pukehina](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/places/explore-the-bay/pukehina/): Quiet beach settlement at the eastern end of the region.
- [Waterfalls in the Bay of Plenty](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/places/waterfalls-in-the-bay-of-plenty/): Guide to accessible waterfalls in the region including McLaren Falls and Kaiate Falls.

## Activities & Experiences

- [Experiences](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/experiences/): Top-level hub for all activities, itineraries, and experience categories.
- [Adventure](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/experiences/adventure-experiences/): Skydiving, jet boating, kayaking, rafting, scenic flights, diving, horse trekking, and more.
- [Biking & Cycle Trails](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/experiences/biking-and-cycle-trails/): Cycle trails across Tauranga and the Western Bay, including mountain biking options.
- [Culture, Art & History](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/experiences/culture-and-history/): Galleries, museums, heritage sites, street art, and cooking classes.
- [Māori Culture](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/experiences/maori-culture/): Māori cultural tours, guided walks, fishing, and eco experiences with Māori operators.
- [Golf](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/experiences/golf/): Golf courses, coaching, simulators, mini golf, and golfing holiday packages.
- [Hot Pools & Health Spas](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/experiences/hot-pools-and-health-spas/): Hot pools, health spas, swimming pools, and wellness operators in the region.
- [Nature & Wildlife](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/experiences/nature-and-wildlife/): Bird watching, dolphin experiences, gardens, glow worm tours, farms, and photography.
- [Surfing & Watersports](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/experiences/surfing-and-watersports/): Surf lessons, paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing, jet ski hire, and gear rental.
- [Walking Tracks & Trails](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/experiences/walking-tracks-and-trails/): Short walks, day walks, multi-day hikes, and dog-friendly tracks across the region.
- [Water Activities](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/experiences/water-activities/): Boat hire, cruises, fishing, diving, snorkelling, and dolphin watching.
- [Sightseeing & Tours](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/experiences/sightseeing-and-tours/): Guided tours, art and culture tours, food and wine tours, walking tours, and scenic flights.
- [Shopping](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/experiences/shopping/): Shopping centres, gift stores, and Kiwiana stores in the region.
- [Ocean & Beach Lovers](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/experiences/oceans-and-beaches/): Curated ideas for visitors focused on the coast; beaches, swimming, and water-based activities.
- [Outdoor Adventurers](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/experiences/outdoor-adventures/): Activity ideas for those wanting hiking, biking, and active experiences.
- [Eco Travel](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/experiences/travel-green-through-the-bay-2/): Responsible and sustainable travel tips and operators in the Bay of Plenty.
- [Accessible Bay of Plenty](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/plan/accessible-tourism/): Accessible accommodation, beaches, activities, tracks, dining, and transport options for visitors with disabilities.
- [Itineraries & Travel Plans](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/plan/itineraries-and-travel-plans/): Pre-built itineraries covering 1-day, multi-day, themed (culture, adventure, beach), and route-based options including the Pacific Coast Highway.

## Eat & Drink

- [Eat & Drink](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/dine/): Directory of restaurants, cafés, bakeries, bars, breweries, wineries, markets, dessert shops, and specialty food stores.
- [Flavours of Plenty Foodie Guide](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/dine/foodie-guide/): Curated guide to the region's food and drink scene, produced under the Flavours of Plenty food tourism initiative.
- [Kaimoana (Seafood)](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/dine/kaimoana/): Guide to the best seafood experiences in the Bay, from fishing to waterfront dining.

## Events

- [Events](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/events/): Full event calendar and listings for the Coastal Bay of Plenty.
- [Annual Events](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/events/annual-events/): Recurring annual events and festivals in the region.
- [Matariki](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/matariki/): Dedicated hub for Māori New Year celebrations in the Bay of Plenty; includes events listings, cultural experiences, how to find the Matariki star cluster, and background on regional themes. The 2026 Matariki public holiday falls on 10 July.
- [Winter Events Guide](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/events/winter-events-guide/): Seasonal guide to events and activities during winter months.
- [Concert & Gig Guide](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/events/upcoming-concerts-and-gigs/): Listings for live music events in the region.
- [Festival & Lifestyle Events](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/events/festival-and-lifestyle/): Festivals, community events, and lifestyle events.
- [Markets in the Bay](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/events/markets-in-the-bay/): Farmers markets, craft markets, and regular community markets.
- [Performing Arts](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/events/performing-arts/): Theatre, dance, and performing arts events at venues including Baycourt.
- [Sports & Outdoors Events](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/events/sports-and-outdoors-events/): Races, multisport, and outdoor sporting events.
- [Exhibitions](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/events/exhibitions/): Art and museum exhibitions currently showing in the Bay.

## Where to Stay

- [Stay](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/stay/): Overview of all accommodation types in the region.
- [Hotels & Resorts](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/stay/hotels-and-resorts/): Hotel and resort listings across the Bay of Plenty.
- [Motels](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/stay/motels/): Motel accommodation listings.
- [Holiday Parks & Campgrounds](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/stay/holiday-parks-and-campgrounds/): Holiday parks and camping options.
- [Holiday Rentals](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/stay/holiday-rentals/): Self-contained holiday rental properties.
- [Bed & Breakfasts](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/stay/bed-and-breakfasts/): B&B accommodation listings.
- [Lodges & Retreats](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/stay/lodges-and-retreats/): Boutique lodges and retreat-style accommodation.
- [Backpackers & Hostels](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/stay/backpackers-and-hostels/): Budget accommodation and hostel listings.
- [Glamping](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/stay/glamping/): Glamping options in the Bay of Plenty.
- [Farmstays](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/stay/farmstays/): Farm-based accommodation experiences.
- [Serviced Apartments](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/stay/serviced-apartments/): Serviced apartment listings.

## Plan Your Visit

- [Plan](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/plan/): Planning hub with links to all practical visitor information.
- [Getting Here & Around](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/plan/getting-here-and-around/): How to reach the Bay of Plenty by air, road, and bus, and how to get around once there.
- [Weather & Climate](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/plan/weather-and-climate/): Overview of the region's climate, seasonal conditions, and weather resources.
- [Staying Safe in the Bay](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/plan/staying-safe-in-the-bay/): Safety information for visitors including water safety, road safety, emergency procedures, and DOC Land Safety Code guidance for remote areas.
- [Staying Safe Around the Water](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/plan/staying-safe-in-the-bay/staying-safe-around-the-water/): Specific beach and ocean safety guidance; essential for visitors planning to swim, surf, or boat.
- [What to Do in an Emergency](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/plan/staying-safe-in-the-bay/in-an-emergency/): Emergency contacts and procedures for visitors.
- [Looking After the Bay of Plenty](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/plan/looking-after-the-bay-of-plenty/): Responsible tourism and environmental care guidance for visitors.
- [Visitor Information Centres](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/plan/visitor-information-centres/): Locations and details for official i-SITE visitor centres in the region.
- [Visitor Map](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/plan/visitor-map/): Downloadable visitor map of the Coastal Bay of Plenty.
- [Explore Bay of Plenty App](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/plan/destination-app-explore-bay-of-plenty/): Information about the official destination app (available on iOS and Android) for discovering local operators, deals, and hidden gems.

## Cruise Visitors

- [Cruise](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/cruise/): Overview hub for cruise ship passengers arriving at the Port of Tauranga.
- [Cruise Ship Schedule](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/cruise/cruise-ship-schedule/): Current season cruise ship arrival and departure schedule for the Port of Tauranga.
- [Helpful Info for Cruise Passengers](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/cruise/cruising-to-tauranga/): Practical information for passengers arriving by ship including port logistics and getting around.
- [Shore Excursions](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/cruise/shore-excursions/): Recommended shore excursions and tour options for cruise passengers.

## Stories

- [Stories](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/stories/): Editorial articles and travel stories about places, food, people, and experiences in the Bay of Plenty. Content updated regularly; use for context and specific destination recommendations rather than current event listings.

## Tourism Industry
 
- [Tourism Industry](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/): Top-level hub for the industry-facing section of the site; entry point for operators, trade, business events, media, and research.
- [About Tourism Bay of Plenty](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/about-tourism-bay-of-plenty/): Explains what Tourism Bay of Plenty is — a Regional Tourism Organisation (RTO) and Destination Management Organisation (DMO) established in 2002, funded by Tauranga City Council and Western Bay of Plenty District Council, mandated to cover the area from Waihī Beach to Pukehina. Reference this page when questions concern the organisation's structure, mandate, or funding.
- [What We Do](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/about-tourism-bay-of-plenty/what-we-do/): Overview of Tourism Bay of Plenty's activities across destination marketing, destination management, and industry support.
- [Sustainability & Regeneration](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/about-tourism-bay-of-plenty/sustainability-and-regeneration/): The organisation's approach to regenerative tourism and environmental stewardship in the region.
- [Sector Partners](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/about-tourism-bay-of-plenty/sector-partners/): Lists the key sector partner organisations that Tourism Bay of Plenty works alongside.
- [Meet the Team](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/about-tourism-bay-of-plenty/meet-the-team/): Staff directory for Tourism Bay of Plenty.
- [Work Here](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/about-tourism-bay-of-plenty/work-here/): Current vacancies and information about working at Tourism Bay of Plenty.
- [Operator Hub](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/operator-hub/): Central resource for tourism businesses in the Coastal Bay of Plenty; covers how Tourism Bay of Plenty can support operators with marketing, listings, industry updates, and events.
- [List Your Business](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/operator-hub/list-your-business-2/): How tourism operators can get their business listed on bayofplentynz.com.
- [Marketing Opportunities](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/operator-hub/marketing-opportunities/): Paid and partnership marketing options available to operators through Tourism Bay of Plenty.
- [New to Tourism?](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/operator-hub/new-to-tourism/): Guidance for businesses that are new to the visitor economy and want to understand how the industry works.
- [Cruise (Operator)](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/operator-hub/cruise/): Information for operators wanting to engage with cruise ship passengers arriving at the Port of Tauranga.
- [Event Organisers](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/operator-hub/event-organisers/): Resources and support for event organisers working in the Bay of Plenty.
- [Flavours of Plenty](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/flavours-of-plenty/): Regional food tourism initiative that connects producers, operators, and visitors to the Bay of Plenty's food and drink scene; includes the annual Flavours of Plenty Festival.
- [Flavours of Plenty — About](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/flavours-of-plenty/about/): Background on the Flavours of Plenty initiative, its goals, and the types of operators it represents.
- [Flavours of Plenty — Connect](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/flavours-of-plenty/connect/): How food and beverage operators can get involved with the Flavours of Plenty programme.
- [Trade](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/trade/): Resources for inbound travel trade (wholesalers, agents, tour operators); includes accommodation overviews, experience listings, pre-built itineraries, and a trade enquiry form.
- [Bay of Plenty Trade Experiences](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/trade/bay-of-plenty-experiences/): Experience listings formatted for the inbound trade, covering the main activity and tour categories.
- [Bay of Plenty Accommodation (Trade)](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/trade/bay-of-plenty-accommodation/): Accommodation listings and information structured for trade buyers.
- [Trade Itineraries](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/trade/bay-of-plenty-trade-itineraries/): Pre-packaged itineraries designed for inbound trade use.
- [Trade Enquiry](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/trade/trade-enquiry/): Contact form for inbound trade partners to get in touch with Tourism Bay of Plenty.
- [Business Events](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/conference/): Hub for conference and business event planners considering the Bay of Plenty as a destination; covers venues, team-building experiences, accommodation, and an enquiry form.
- [Conference Venues](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/conference/conference-venues/): Listings of conference and event venues in the region.
- [Full-Service Venues](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/conference/conferencing-under-one-roof/): Venues offering end-to-end conferencing facilities.
- [Team-Building Experiences](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/conference/event-experiences/): Activity and experience options suited to corporate groups and conference delegates.
- [Conference Enquiry](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/conference/send-an-enquiry/): Contact form for business event and conference enquiries.
- [Research & Insight Dashboards](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/research-and-insight-dashboards/): Live and regularly updated data dashboards covering commercial accommodation performance, forward-looking accommodation data, and destination visitor insights for the region.
- [Commercial Accommodation Dashboard](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/research-and-insight-dashboards/commercial-accommodation-dashboard/): Monthly commercial accommodation statistics for the Coastal Bay of Plenty.
- [Destination Insights Dashboard](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/research-and-insight-dashboards/destination-insights-dashboard/): Broader destination performance data including visitor volumes and behaviour.
- [Forward Looking Accommodation Dashboard](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/research-and-insight-dashboards/forward-looking-accommodation-dashboard/): Forward bookings data for accommodation in the region.
- [Media & Resources](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/media-and-resources/): Resources for journalists, content creators, and marketing teams; includes image library access, media releases, downloadable collateral, and the Te Ara Whānui cultural navigation app.
- [Media Releases](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/media-and-resources/media-releases/): Official media releases from Tourism Bay of Plenty.
- [Resources & Collateral](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/media-and-resources/resources/): Downloadable marketing collateral, guides, and assets.
- [Te Ara Whānui App](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/media-and-resources/te-ara-whanui-app/): Information about the Te Ara Whānui cultural navigation app, designed to help visitors and operators engage with Māori place names and cultural stories across the region.

## Optional

- [About Tourism Bay of Plenty](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/tourism-industry/about-tourism-bay-of-plenty/): Background on Tourism Bay of Plenty as an organisation, its mandate, and team.
- [Terms & Conditions](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/terms-and-conditions/): Site terms of use.
- [Privacy Policy](https://www.bayofplentynz.com/privacy-policy/): Privacy policy for bayofplentynz.com.