|
|
Local Attractions
The Bay of
Plenty is a popular holiday destination for New Zealanders and
international visitors alike.
Its warm climate and proximity
to the major cities of Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga mean
that it is a favoured holiday spot.
In addition, the many
attractions the region has to offer explain why visitors are
keen to come back again and again.
Beaches
From Pacific coast surfing beaches such
as Waihi Beach and Mount Maunganui to the sheltered beaches
of Tauranga Harbour, the Bay of Plenty has it all. Beautiful sand
and plenty of space, there is fun for everyone here. The
legendary beaches of Coromandel's east coast including Hot
Water Beach and Cathedral Cove at Hahei are also only a short
drive from Katikati and the western Bay of Plenty.
|
Tramping
There is excellent
tramping in the Kaimai Ranges. Superb views of the whole Bay of
Plenty are afforded from the summits, which reach almost 1,000
metres.
Other tramping hotspots include the
Karangahake Gorge, a spectacular, picturesque pass and river
valley through the Kaimai Ranges. Formerly mined extensively
for gold, numerous relics remain including the goldfields
railway, tunnels, and stamping battery. |
 |
 |
Katikati
The mural town
of New Zealand, Katikati is recognised internationally for its
more than forty murals which adorn walls in the town
centre. In addition, there is the Haiku Pathway, the largest
collection of Haiku "stones" outside Japan; and the Bird
Walk, a beautiful estuary walk with arresting bird sculptures.
|
Tauranga
New Zealand's fifth largest city
is a great place to explore. Numerous shops and relaxed atmosphere
make the city a magnet for visitors. The annual jazz festival at
Easter is very popular and attracts internationally renowned jazz
performers.
Waihi
Famous for the
Martha Mine, an enormous open cast gold mine. Children and
adults alike are amazed by the sheer scale of the
operations.
Rotorua
A
centre for Maori culture and awesome geothermal activity, Rotorua is
a must see for any visitor.
|
