Bay of Plenty Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Bay of Plenty with our informative tour guide featuring the best places to visit, hiking and biking routes, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Bay of Plenty

Nestled in the North Island of New Zealand, the Bay of Plenty is a stunning region boasting heavenly weather, natural wonders, and cultural treasures. Renowned for its long, sandy beaches, lush forests, geothermal wonders, and Maori culture, the Bay of Plenty is a paradise for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and culture seekers.

List of Places to Visit in Bay of Plenty

Whether you are looking to soak up local culture or explore natural wonders, the Bay of Plenty has something for everyone. Here are some of the top places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Te Puke: Known as the “Kiwifruit Capital of the World,” Te Puke is a lively town famous for its sweet and juicy kiwifruit farms and festivals.
  • The Elms Mission House: Built-in 1838, the Elms Mission House is a beautifully restored historic homestead that offers a glimpse into the early days of European settlement.
  • Ohinemutu: Located on the tranquil shores of stunning Lake Rotorua, Ohinemutu is a historic Maori village renowned for its fascinating customs, traditions, and architecture.

Natural Attractions of Bay of Plenty: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Maunganui: Also known as “The Mount,” Mount Maunganui is a picturesque peninsula with magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean and one of the best beaches in New Zealand.
  • White Island: Located 48 kilometers offshore from the Bay of Plenty, White Island is an active volcano that offers thrilling boat tours, helicopter rides, and guided walks.
  • Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park: Home to towering trees, pristine waterfalls, and abundant wildlife, Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park is a natural playground for hikers, bikers, and nature lovers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bay of Plenty

The Bay of Plenty boasts a range of stunning hikes and bike trails for all levels of fitness and expertise. Here are some of the popular routes:

  • Papamoa Hills Regional Park Walk: A popular hiking trail featuring breathtaking views of the Bay of Plenty, Papamoa Hills Regional Park Walk is a moderate 1-2 hour trek that winds through native bush and farmland.
  • Ohiwa Harbour Walkway: A tranquil and picturesque 9 km walkway, the Ohiwa Harbour Walkway meanders through the tranquil wetlands of the Ohiwa Harbour and offers stunning views of the Kutarere and Ohiwa harbours.
  • Motu Trails: One of the most popular bike trails in New Zealand, the Motu Trails offer a range of exciting biking experiences, from relaxed family-friendly rides to thrilling mountain biking adventures.

Best Things to Do in Bay of Plenty: Activities and Tours

From water sports to cultural tours, the Bay of Plenty offers a host of exciting activities and tours. Here are some of the top things to do:

  • Swim with Dolphins: Experience the thrill of swimming with wild dolphins in their natural habitat with Dolphin Seafaris.
  • Guided Maori Tours: Discover the rich Maori culture with a guided Maori tour of the Bay of Plenty, which includes visits to historic sites and traditional ceremonies.
  • Kaituna River Rafting: Take on the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall with Kaitiaki Adventures and feel the adrenaline rush as you navigate through the scenic Kaituna River.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bay of Plenty

Here’s a sample week-long itinerary to help you make the most of your visit to Bay of Plenty:

Day Activity
1 Mount Maunganui Beach and Summit Walk
2 Te Puke and Kiwifruit Country Tour
3 Rotorua Cultural Tour
4 White Island Helicopter Tour
5 Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park Hiking
6 Kaituna River Rafting Adventure
7 Bay of Plenty Art and Crafts Tour

Food and Drink Scene of Bay of Plenty

The Bay of Plenty’s culinary scene is a fusion of local and international flavors, with seafood, kiwifruit, and meat dishes that are not to be missed.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Hangi: A traditional Maori dish that involves cooking meat and vegetables in an underground oven.
  • Kiwifruit Pavlova: A sweet and creamy dessert made from meringue, whipped cream, and kiwifruit.
  • Seafood Chowder: A hearty soup made with fresh seafood, vegetables, and creamy broth.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer: The Bay of Plenty boasts a host of local craft breweries, such as Mount Brewing Co. and Croucher Brewing Co., that offer a range of delicious beers.
  • Wine: The Bay of Plenty’s sunny climate provides the perfect conditions for growing flavorful grapes, with local wineries such as Mills Reef and Leveret Estate producing award-winning wines.

Where to Stay in Bay of Plenty: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

The Bay of Plenty has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels.

Luxury Hotels

  • Whakaipo Lodge: Located in the heart of Rotorua, Whakaipo Lodge boasts stunning views of Lake Taupo and offers luxurious rooms and suites.
  • Hotel Armitage: A 4-star hotel located in the heart of Tauranga, Hotel Armitage offers elegant rooms, an alfresco restaurant, and a heated outdoor pool.

Budget-Friendly Hostels

  • Crash Palace Backpackers: A centrally located hostel in Rotorua, Crash Palace Backpackers offers relaxed accommodation, free Wi-Fi, and a lively bar.
  • Surfside Backpackers: A beachfront hostel in Mount Maunganui, Surfside Backpackers offers affordable accommodation, free bike rental, and easy access to the beach.

What to Buy in Bay of Plenty: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

The Bay of Plenty is filled with local shops and markets that offer unique souvenirs and local products to bring back home. Here are some of the top items:

  • Kiwifruit Products: From kiwifruit jams and jellies to kiwifruit wines and liqueurs, the Bay of Plenty is the perfect place to indulge in this sweet and juicy fruit.
  • Maori Crafts: From traditional carvings to woven flax bags, Maori crafts are a great way to take a piece of the local culture home.
  • Manuka Honey: Renowned for its curative properties, Manuka honey is a popular local product that is great for both cooking and skincare.

Local Culture and Customs of Bay of Plenty

The Bay of Plenty is steeped in rich Maori culture and history, with many traditional customs and beliefs still widely practiced and respected. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and protocols, such as removing shoes when entering someone’s home, not eating while walking down the street, and asking permission before taking photos of people or cultural artifacts.

Best Time to Visit Bay of Plenty

The Bay of Plenty is a year-round destination, with mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine throughout the year. However, the best time to visit is during the summer months of December to February, when the weather is warm and dry, and the beaches and outdoor activities are in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bay of Plenty

Do:

  • Respect local culture and customs.
  • Stay on designated tracks when hiking or biking in natural areas.
  • Keep the beaches and waterways clean and free of litter.

Don’t:

  • Cut down or damage trees and natural habitats.
  • Disturb or harm wildlife.
  • Ignore warning signs or advice regarding volcanic or geothermal activity.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bay of Plenty

The Bay of Plenty is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low levels of crime and violence. However, visitors are advised to take basic precautions, such as keeping valuables secure and avoiding unlit or isolated areas at night.

Health in Bay of Plenty

The Bay of Plenty has a well-developed healthcare system, with hospitals and medical centers located throughout the region. Visitors are advised to take out travel insurance to cover any unexpected medical expenses.

Getting to Bay of Plenty: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bay of Plenty

  • Tauranga Airport: Located in Tauranga, Tauranga Airport is the main airport serving the Bay of Plenty region, with regular domestic flights to major cities in New Zealand.
  • Rotorua International Airport: Located in Rotorua, Rotorua International Airport offers domestic and international flights to Australia and Fiji.

Bus Stations Near Bay of Plenty

The Bay of Plenty is well-served by a network of intercity buses, with regular services connecting major towns and cities throughout the region. Some of the popular bus companies include Intercity and Naked Bus.

Other Options

Other transportation options for getting to and around Bay of Plenty include car rentals, taxis, and private transfers.

How to Get Around in Bay of Plenty

The Bay of Plenty is a relatively compact region, with most attractions and towns located within easy reach of each other. Some of the popular transportation options for getting around include rental cars, buses, and guided tours.

Where to Go Next from Bay of Plenty: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

The Bay of Plenty is surrounded by a host of neighboring regions and attractions, making it an ideal base for further exploration. Some of the popular tourist destinations and excursions include:

  • Rotorua: Located just a short drive from the Bay of Plenty, Rotorua is a geothermal wonderland renowned for its bubbling mud pools, hot springs, and Maori culture.
  • Coromandel Peninsula: A scenic peninsula located to the north of the Bay of Plenty, the Coromandel Peninsula boasts stunning beaches, rugged landscapes, and quaint coastal towns.
  • Hobbiton: Located in nearby Matamata, Hobbiton is the film set used for the Hobbit and Lord of the Rings movies and offers guided tours and photo opportunities.

Conclusion

The Bay of Plenty is a world-class destination that has something for everyone, from outdoor adventures to cultural treasures. With its stunning natural beauty, hospitable locals, and vibrant food and cultural scene, the Bay of Plenty is a must-visit destination for anyone planning a trip to New Zealand.



    Opotiki
    Te Puke
    Waihi Beach
    White Island