Tauranga is one of the most popular destinations in the country with warm weather during the summer, fantastic beaches and plenty to do outdoors. If you’re looking for somewhere exciting in New Zealand to spend your vacation, there’s no better place to be than in the North Island.
It’s not just a great view – there’s far more to the city than meets the eye. Check out some of these things that you didn’t know about Tauranga.
One of New Zealand’s Fastest Growing Cities
It’s hard to keep a good thing secret and it seems that everybody’s picking up on just how great the Bay of Plenty port is. Tauranga saw a 14% increase in population between 2001 and 2006, one of the highest in the country, and things are only getting bigger!
The Country’s Largest Port
Surfing isn’t the only thing that the water’s good for. The Port of Tauranga is New Zealand’s largest in terms of export tonnage, moving more goods than anywhere else in the country.
Vibrant Centre of Business and Culture
The city itself is a main centre for business, trade and culture, drawing visitors in for events like the annual National Jazz Festival, galleries and museums like the Tauranga Art Gallery and its recently renovated CBD. Tauranga has everything from shopping malls like Bayfair in Mount Maunganui to the nightlife along The Strand.
Everything Outdoors
Tauranga’s climate makes it one of the best places in the country to experience the outdoors. You don’t have to stay at the beach for your whole trip either; go golfing, hiking on Mount Maunganui, dolphin watching, mountain biking, kayaking and fishing during your stay and take in a huge breath of the city’s fresh air.
From the beaches alongside the Bay of Plenty to the Kaimai-Mamaku Forest Park to the northwest of the city, there’s a lot to see in Tauranga and the surrounding region. If you’re flying in, book a Tauranga Airport car rental to make your trip a bit easier. You’ll have less hassle getting everyone from place to place and more freedom to enjoy your holiday as you see fit instead of relying on public transport or expensive taxis to get around.
Spend your vacation in one of New Zealand’s top cities. Make the most of everything that Tauranga has to offer from shopping and nightlife to the outdoors. Whether it’s a weekend away for two or a fortnight-long family trip to the beach, there’s no better place to be.