Bay of Plenty to-do!

10 THINGS TO DO AND SEE IN THE BAY OF PLENTY

Nestled on the eastern side of New Zealand’s North Island, the Bay of Plenty has stunning beaches, a vibrant city, charming towns, and yes—plenty of activities and events. Here, ten of our favourites to get you started!

1 Kayak Through A Glow Worm Canyon

Watch a beautiful canyon come alive with twinkling lights during an evening Waimarino Glow Worm Kayak Tour. Enjoy refreshments (included) as the sun sets, before paddling across Lake McLaren, near Tauranga. Upon arrival, the canyon is completely dark, the best way to see the glow worms to the best effect. Enjoy the birdsong and the peaceful forest surrounding this magical experience.

2 See The Bay From Above

Discover some of the best views in the Bay of Plenty on a scenic helicopter flight, an open cockpit flight or a glider flight. For the ultimate adrenaline rush, go on a skydiving adventure and take in breathtaking views of Mount Maunganui and its golden beaches expanding as far as the eye can see.

3 Learn To Surf Or Sup

There’s no better place to learn the basics of surfing or stand-up paddle boarding: the uncrowded beaches and gentle swells provide the perfect conditions for learner surfers. Book a lesson at one of the many surf schools dotted along the coast. Some of our favourite spots include Waihī Beach, a shoaling white sand beach which suits beginners a bit better than the more experienced. Mount Maunganui’s Main Beach is the hub of the beach culture and would be the equivalent to Oahu’s Waikiki, or Sydney’s Bondi. There are waterfront cafés, food trucks, and plenty of waves. You’ll be hanging 10 in no time!

INSPIRED TO VISIT NEW ZEALAND? Check out our tours here

6 VIEW THE BAY’S PICTURESQUE SCENERY ON A V8 TRIKE

Go on a fun and thrilling experience exploring the beautiful Bay of Plenty on the back of a V8 Chevrolet Trike. From a bitesized 25 minute cruise to a three-hour experience, you can sit back and relax while the driver shows you all the stunning sights. This is an unforgettable sightseeing adventure for everyone!

Discover The Big Blue Backyard

Discover the Bay of Plenty’s renowned marine wildlife with Bay Explorer, Dolphin Seafaris or Orca Wild Adventures. The warm coastal waters attract large pods of dolphins between November and May. You may also see orcas, whales, sea turtles and seals. Make the most of your day on the water with a kayak, stand-up paddleboard or snorkel with Bay Explorer. Tick swimming with dolphins off your bucket list with Dolphin Seafaris or Orca Wild Adventures.

5 DISCOVER AN ECO-SANCTUARY

One of New Zealand’s little-known treasures, Moutohorā (Whale Island) is home to the oldest living dinosaur, the endangered tuatara. Moutohorā sits 9km off the coast of Whakatāne and can only be accessed by a guided tour. On a tour with Moutohorā Island Tours, you will hear why Moutohorā is a bird lover’s paradise and you can swim at a secluded hot water beach. Alternatively, sail by wind with KG Kayak’s catamaran and then explore sea caves and a fur seal colony by kayak.

7 Taste Plenty

Blessed with fertile land and open seas, the Bay of Plenty is renowned for its plentiful produce and seafood. Local establishments take full advantage of these fresh ingredients and there is no shortage of world-class dining options to enjoy. One activity that’s unique to the region and should not be missed, however, is a visit to a working kiwifruit orchard with Kiwifruit Country Tours where you’ll learn about this small but mighty superfood. If beer is more your thing, indulge in the local craft beer scene with Brew Bus where you’ll be able to speak to the brewers themselves.

8 Walk Among Giants In The Whirinaki Forest

Deep in the central North Island lies an ancient forest waiting to be discovered. Whirinaki Te Pua-a-Tāne Conservation Park is one of the world’s last prehistoric rainforests. It is home to first generation native trees, rare native birds and 155 kilometres of walking, tramping and mountain biking tracks to suit all levels. Take a guided eco-cultural tour and immerse yourself in an ancient, natural world.