Mount Maunganui, Tauranga (2024) - Images, Timings

Mt. Maunganui, North Island, New Zealand, Tauranga Overview

The iconic Mt. Maunganui, at an elevation of 232m above sea level, is a focal tourist attraction far and wide for its vast sandy beaches, high ocean waves for surfing, and Pilot Bay's relaxing water. It once was an independent township until Tauranga Bridge connected it to the economic hub.

What makes Mt. Maunganui unique and remarkable as a tourist spot and an important trade centre is its geographical gift of being both a harbour beach and an ocean beach. The place has New Zealand’s first artificial reef and is also home to Bay Oval- a cricket ground that held ICC Under 19 Cricket WC 2018 and also features the renowned Bayfair Shopping Centre. Maunganui’s beach is also known for the several tourist activities it promises, like surfing, fishing, camping and dolphin tours.

HIstory

Mt. Maunganui derives its name from Mauao and it was called that till 1907. Several authorities suggested alternatives for the colloquial name like Te Maire, Tamure and Rakataura because they bore the Maori dialect.

The early residents of the place fought to retain its original name along with keeping it independent from Tauranga’s municipal and district supervision. J.C Adams, considered to be one of the very first settlers of Maunganui built a concrete house for the very first time on the face of the land. It still stands today at the 4 Adams Avenue as a historic attraction of the place.

Best Time to Visit

The climate that prevails over the region is mildly subtropical. The beach location makes the temperatures moderate. Summer here has an average temperature of 20-30 degrees.
Winter has an average temperature of 10-15 degrees. It receives about 1300mm rainfall each year during monsoons.
The warmest months are February, March, and January. The most ideal time to visit the place is from early October to early May when spring and fall sparsely prevail with mellow sunlight during daytime and light breeze during night time.
The busiest month is December when tourists flock in from all over the place and naturally the prices of accommodation and flights hike.

Things to Do

Tauranga Aero Club- Any aviation enthusiasts? You may fly your first fly at this Aeroclub. Situated at the main district of Tauranga alongside the Bay of Plenty, this place offers you a memorable flying experience with a great scenic view, the greatest of winds, some magnificent volcanoes and some experienced aero team.

Surfing- How is a beach trip complete without trying your hand at surfing? At Mount Maunganui Surf Academy you will have an experienced team to assist and guide you through your surfing experience. Beginners or experienced surfers, you have a team to tutor you according to your capacity. They also have surfing types of equipment like high-quality bathing suits and surfing boards.

Rocktopia- A center that offers you a wide range of climbing terrains wherein you can try out your fitness potential. They have 26 fun climbs, 18 climbing falls and two boulder caves.

Mount Hot Ocean Water Pools- A place of ultimate laid back relaxation among beaches, cafes, hot pools, and massage spas. Adult entry fees are NZD 14.70 and children's entry fees are NZD 9.40

Mt. Maunganui Summit Walk- Trudging through the trail of the Mauao summit, a 45-minute walk is filled with the right thrill of mountain terrain, panoramic view of the landscape, the harbor ports, Matakana island. There is an availability of self-guided and fully guided tours of the walk which allows you to choose following your financial capacity.

Totara Street- It is a multifunctional event center that conglomerates live musical performances, dance performances by some of the most renowned artists of New Zealand or even talented local artists, corporate events or workshops. The place has two licensed bars, fully equipped sound systems, mezzanine floors, and commercial kitchens to look forward to.

Food and Wine

Wine tasting at Mills Reef Winery.
For fish and marine food, one may visit the Bobby Fish Market for its cheap, local and fresh fish.
EasyGo Thai for some authentic Thai cuisine by Thai chefs.
Smart India for the Vegans who may want to try out the authentic Indian spices.
Mediterraneo cafe for a light English and Mediterranean breakfast.