It is no secret Tauranga has an abundance of activities for both visitors and locals to get stuck into and enjoy. Here are some gems in Tauranga and the Western Bay you may not have been to yet or heard about through the grapevine. Summer is the perfect time to
Tauranga region's hidden gems: No shortage of fun and action
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Raparapahoe Falls. Photo / File
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The Classic Flyers Aviation Museum showcases some of New Zealand's best Classic and Vintage aircraft along with static and hands-on displays. Memorabilia can be viewed throughout three hangars as well as an outdoor interactive area.
You can also take the opportunity to feel the wind in your face as you fly over the Tauranga and Mt Maunganui scenery in an open cockpit bi-plane (at additional cost).
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2. Raparapahoe Falls
Raparapahoe Falls is a 3m waterfall that plunges into a cool and clear pool. The trail down to the stream runs through a narrow, densely-bushed gorge, and can be steep and slippery.
It is recommended you have sturdy footwear and are fit and agile. The pool at the base of the waterfall can offer you a refreshing dip before you embark back up the trail.
To get to the starting point, drive up Te Puke's No 3 Rd and turn into No 4 Rd. Cross the bridge, turn immediately left and drive for 2.4km, where there is a sign-posted roadside parking bay.
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3. Te Puna Quarry Park
Te Puna Quarry Park is a magical place of nature.
From ponds, bush walks and panoramic views, to sculptures, specialised gardens and a butterfly garden, there is plenty to marvel at.
Take a picnic along, get moving and breathing in the fresh air, and enjoy the natural wonders on offer.
Te Puna Quarry Park began in 1997 when volunteers started developing a disused quarry into a park.
It is open all day, every day, with free admission.
4. Western Bay Museum
Katikati's Western Bay Museum is a great rainy day option and brings to life the pioneering spirit of tangata whenua and settlers who built the Western Bay.
The museum tells their stories through collections, interactive experiences and beautifully curated exhibitions, making it an engaging, interesting and educational gem for all ages.
The museum is housed inside an historic landmark - the old fire station in Katikati.
The interior is modern, bright and open, and exhibitions are updated three times per year.
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5. Katikati Bird Gardens
Immerse yourself in the tranquility of these gardens, set on the edge of the Tauranga inner harbour.
They include harbourside country gardens, huge trees, ponds and wetlands.
If you've had a busy holiday schedule, the Katikati Bird Gardens are a great place to go for a leisurely stroll.
There are a small number of aviaries housing parrots, and enclosures for breeding pheasants and fancy bantams. Around the gardens natives such as tui, heron, fantail and grey warblers can usually be seen.
6. The Elms | Te Papa Tauranga
Those who enjoy learning about history and delving into the past should make sure they have The Elms | Te Papa Tauranga on their to-do list - one of the oldest heritage sites in New Zealand.
As a place of early contact between Māori and Pākehā, this historic site encompasses category one listed heritage buildings and nationally significant collections, all within a garden setting.
The Elms | Te Papa Tauranga is a place for the community to gather and learn, and with guided tours of the historic house and library, people can be treated to a rare glimpse into the past of this now bustling city.
7. Tuahu Kauri Walk
Experience the magic of walking through regenerating native forest until you reach Tuahu - one of the largest kauri trees in the region.
This old Māori route was used as a bridle track in the 1890s, and those walkers who are a bit more adventurous can explore other day walks and more challenging tracks in the Kaimāī Mamaku Conservation Park.
The Tuahu Kauri Walk takes 20 minutes one way and starts near the end of Hot Springs Rd, 8km south of Katikati.
The Sapphire Springs Thermal Pools are just up the road, so treat yourself to a relaxing soak afterwards.
8. Te Rerekawau (Kaiate Falls)
Children will enjoy going on an outdoors adventure to see cascading waterfalls and explore this bush-filled ravine.
The beautiful scenery is also bound to supply plenty of inspiration for any photographers and those looking to add great snaps to their social media.
There are several loop tracks which intersect with one another.
The duration is up to 60-minutes return and starts off Kaiate Falls Rd - follow the signposts from Welcome Bay Rd. Although this track is well-formed, it is steep in some places.
9. Marshalls Animal Park
Animal lovers of all ages are bound to be in heaven at this unique attraction, featuring 35 acres of friendly animals and fun.
Marshalls Animal Park has well-planned walkways which guide you to a close-up and personal encounter with animals.
Children have the opportunity to feed and play with a host of farmyard animals, and see emus, giant African ostriches, Texas longhorns, several breeds of sheep, deer, goats, birds, pigs and horses from Clydesdales to cute miniatures.
There is also plenty more to keep the kids entertained, with activities such as a playground.
Situated adjacent to McLaren Falls Park, the park is set up with picnic spots complete with tables and has an observation spot at the top of the hill which showcases a panoramic view.
10. Pāpāmoa Hills Regional Park (Te Rae O Pāpāmoa)
Breathtaking views are a highlight of this 135-hectare park which overlooks the sprawling plains of Pāpāmoa below and out to the Pacific Ocean.
If you climb right to the top, you'll be standing 224m above sea level. It'll take you about 45 minutes to complete this steep walk.
In addition to this main track, there are several other trails throughout the park.
Seven pā sites - where Pāpāmoa's original Māori inhabitants lived - can be found in these hills, and the terracing they created in the hills can be seen.
The regional park was formed in 2003 to help protect the site's cultural heritage, and there are more than 2000 archaeological features found here.
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