Nestled on the shores of the Bay of Plenty, Tauranga welcomes families with its promise of adventures and memorable moments.
From the blue waters of Mount Maunganui Beach to the tranquil beauty of Te Puna Quarry Park, this city on the North Island of New Zealand has something to offer everyone in the family.
Mount Maunganui Beach: A Paradise for Family Bonding
No visit to Tauranga is complete without a day spent at Mount Maunganui Beach. With its soft white sand and blue water, this iconic stretch of coastline provides the perfect backdrop for family fun.
Children can enjoy building sandcastles and splashing in the shallows while parents soak up the sun’s rays and unwind amidst the breathtaking scenery. For the more adventurous, surfing and paddleboarding offer exhilarating ways to experience the ocean’s embrace. Families gather on the beach to enjoy the stunning sunset as the day ends.
Parks and Playgrounds: Where Imagination Knows No Bounds
Tauranga’s parks and playgrounds invite families to reconnect with nature and indulge in carefree play. From Memorial Park’s sprawling lawns to Fergusson Park’s open spaces, there’s no shortage of green spaces to explore.
Memorial Park welcomes kids with its skatepark, mini golf, play equipment and outdoor pool. With ample space to run and explore, these family-friendly destinations in New Zealand provide the perfect setting for quality time together.
Family-friendly Cafés and Restaurants: A Culinary Journey in Tauranga
When hunger strikes, Tauranga’s diverse array of cafes and restaurants is sure to have something to satisfy every palate. From cozy coffee shops to waterfront eateries, there’s no shortage of options for family dining.
Parents can relax and unwind with freshly brewed coffee while children delight in kid-friendly menus and play areas to keep them entertained.
Whether craving a hearty breakfast, a leisurely lunch, or a decadent dessert, families will find something to tantalize their taste buds in Tauranga’s culinary scene.
Tauranga Farmers Market: A Feast for the Senses
Families flock to the Tauranga Farmers Market to taste local flavour, where abundant fresh produce and artisanal goods await.
The market stalls are full of seasonal fruits and vegetables, while the smell of freshly baked bread wafts through the air.
Children can sample juicy strawberries and crunchy carrots while live music creates a festive atmosphere. The Tauranga Farmers Market is one of the best weekend activities in town.
Water Activities: Dive into Adventure
With its pristine coastline and clean water, Tauranga offers endless opportunities for families. Families can take to the water in kayaks or paddleboards, exploring hidden coves and secluded beaches along the coast.
For those seeking a more leisurely pace, a family boat tour offers the perfect opportunity to soak up the scenery and spot playful dolphins frolicking in the waves.
Whatever their preference, Tauranga’s waters provide a playground for families to make a splash and create memories together.
Mount Maunganui Summit Walk: A Scenic Stroll with Spectacular Views
Families can take on the Mount Maunganui Summit Walk for a bird’s-eye view of Tauranga’s breathtaking landscape.
The well-maintained trail winds its way to the summit, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding coastline and distant mountains. It will take families around 1 hour to reach the top of Mount Maunganui.
As you reach the summit, you are rewarded with sweeping views that stretch as far as the eye can see, providing the perfect backdrop for a family photo to commemorate their achievement.
Tauranga Art Gallery: Where Creativity Knows No Bounds
Immerse yourselves in the vibrant world of art and culture at the Tauranga Art Gallery, where families are invited to explore diverse exhibits and interactive installations.
Children’s imaginations are sparked as they marvel at colourful paintings and intricate sculptures. Parents can take a moment to admire the talent on display, which captivates visitors of all ages. The Tauranga Art Gallery offers an enriching experience for the whole family.
Te Puna Quarry Park: A Hidden Gem Waiting to Be Discovered
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourselves in the tranquil beauty of Te Puna Quarry Park. This hidden gem boasts winding walking tracks, lush gardens, and striking sculptures, providing the perfect backdrop for a family adventure.
Children delight in exploring the park’s dragons, lizards, frogs, and butterfly sculptures. Parents can pause to admire the stunning vistas and reconnect with nature amidst the park’s peaceful surroundings.
With its diverse flora and fauna, Te Puna Quarry Park offers a sanctuary for families to unwind and explore.
Kiwi360: Discover the Essence of New Zealand
Delve into the heart of New Zealand’s iconic kiwifruit industry at Kiwi360, where families can learn about the journey from orchard to table. Children are captivated as they watch kiwifruit being harvested and packed, gaining a newfound appreciation for this delicious fruit.
Parents can indulge in kiwifruit tastings and purchase souvenirs to take home, ensuring the experience lingers long after leaving Kiwi360 behind.
Make sure you get a family photo with the giant Kiwi Fruit that welcomes visitors at the entrance to Kiwi360.
Cultural Experiences: Celebrating Diversity in Tauranga
Tauranga’s rich cultural heritage is celebrated through various experiences that invite families to learn, explore, and connect with the local community.
From visiting traditional marae (Maori meeting grounds) to attending cultural events and festivals, there are countless opportunities to immerse yourselves in Maori culture and traditions.
Children are captivated by stories of the past and the vibrant performances that bring them to life, gaining a deeper understanding and appreciation for the cultural tapestry that makes Tauranga unique.
Wildlife Encounters: Discovering Nature’s Wonders
Embark on a journey of discovery as you encounter Tauranga’s diverse array of wildlife, both on land and at sea. Families can explore the Tauranga Marine Precinct, where they can observe marine life up close and learn about the importance of conservation efforts.
Dolphin-watching tours offer the chance to spot playful dolphins frolicking in their natural habitat, their sleek bodies slicing through the waves with grace and agility.
Whether exploring the coastline or venturing into the wilderness, Tauranga’s wildlife encounters provide unforgettable moments of wonder and awe for families to treasure.
Creating Lasting Memories in Tauranga
From sandy shores to mountain summits, from cultural experiences to wildlife encounters, Tauranga offers many opportunities for families to connect, explore, and make lasting memories together.
Whether embarking on a new adventure or revisiting old favourites, the beauty and diversity of Tauranga ensure that every visit is filled with laughter, love, and cherished moments that will be treasured for years to come.
We hope this article on Wyld Family Travel inspires you to visit the Bay of Plenty region in New Zealand.
Author bio:
Father, husband, traveller, and chief destination manager here at Wyld Family Travel. When Mark is not discussing travel or planning travel, you will find him working in disability support. Mark is a family travel advocate, having travelled to over 45 countries with his kids from 10 months to their teenage years. You will find his work here and on other popular websites.
Mark Wyld
Content Creator