Tauranga offers a sunny climate and diverse activities, making it a lifestyle hotspot. Photo / Brydie Thompson
Set along the coast, there is so much to love about Aotearoa’s fifth-most-populated city. Just under three hours south of Auckland, Tauranga is a lifestyle hotspot with a sunny climate and endless options for exploring.
While the city is undergoing major development to become the commercial and cultural capital of the Bay of Plenty, there are already plenty of unique shops and a high standard of hospitality options clustered around the downtown precinct. And if you want a moment of relaxation at any time, everything’s just a hop, skip and a jump from the waterfront.
To send you off on the right track, here’s a list of the best things to do in Tauranga if you only have 12 hours, packed with special local spots that capture the city’s happy disposition.
Start your day along Tauranga’s revamped waterfront and try your hand at identifying each of the Hairy Maclary sculptures. The modernised area also includes an enormous playground, a 170m-long, harbour-fronting boardwalk and a manu platform for jumping into the harbour, which has been particularly popular during the summer months. On Saturdays, a local Tauranga Farmers Market on Fifth Ave provides everything from produce to coffee, seafood to baked treats.
51 The Strand, Tauranga
Back on the waterfront, breakfast at Oscar & Otto is always a great call. Renowned for its enticing menu and warm hospitality, the cafe offers a relaxed dining experience in a Scandinavian-inspired space. Fill up on freshly baked pastries or opt for something heartier from the breakfast menu while sipping a hot brew or, for those inclined, brunch cocktails.
108 Willow St
Right in the heart of the city centre, Toi Tauranga Art Gallery is your cue to slow the pace and lift your head from the itinerary. Balancing history with a sharp, contemporary edge, the Gallery offers a rotating programme of exhibitions that taps into the Bay of Plenty’s creative energy and brings in fresh perspectives from further afield. It’s an easy, unhurried wander through light-filled spaces and thoughtful storytelling.
148 Durham St
Folk Coffee Roasters is a haven for coffee enthusiasts seeking unique and flavourful brews sourced from around the globe. Folk thrives as a community-driven establishment, where every cup is brewed with an extra shot of passion and dedication. Whether it’s the cosy ambience inviting visitors to linger or the tempting pastries and toasties tickling your senses, it’s easy for one coffee to become two.
53 Ninth Ave
Hopping along to The White Rabbit Store is a must for anyone on the lookout for something special to take home. There’s an abundance of unique and thoughtful gifts, eco-friendly products, and one-of-a-kind items. With a focus on handmade treasures, vintage clothing, and eclectic collectibles, we’ll be surprised if you leave empty-handed.
70 Saint John St & 2a Saint John St
These days, visiting Lloyd’s Deli for lunch is basically a no-brainer. Lloyd’s offers a vibrant atmosphere, featuring an enticing selection of freshly toasted sandwiches crafted with house-baked bread and pizza by the slice you won’t soon forget. Making a great lunch even better is finishing it off with a sweet treat from Breadhead, only a few minutes walk away, a bakery and cafe whipping up absolute magic with dough and pastry.
Shop 23/24 Piccadilly Arcade
Located in Tauranga’s Piccadilly Arcade, Bay Barbers is a barbershop proudly upholding the age-old traditions of barbering. It serves as an inclusive community hub and relaxing place to hang out. The barbershop is highly curated, designed specifically as a place to have fun and feel good. There’s a pool table onsite, as well as plenty of meaningful art, decor, photos and plants about the place. The comprehensive barber services are complemented by a diverse product selection. Expect specialty shaving and grooming items (including their exclusive Frank & Flo brand), as well as an exceptional collection of New Zealand made hats.
12 Wharf St, Tauranga
For happy hour, The Hop House knows what’s what. Housed in a beautifully restored 1920s building in the pedestrianised Wharf St Precinct, The Hop House is passionate about craft beer (evident in its 12 differing taps from local, national and international brewers), complemented by an array of boutique wines, high-end spirits, and exciting non-alcoholic beverages. Perfect for unwinding from a busy day of exploring!
19 Wharf St, Tauranga
Just along from The Hop House, Italian-inspired Sugo offers a reliably delicious experience come dinner time. Sugo has built a reputation on its provision of consistency and quality, not just in its food and drink offerings but also for ambience and service. There is a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and innovative flavours, combining to form beloved staples such as beef cheek lasagne and tiramisu.
3/59 The Strand & 21 Devonport Rd
Finish the night off in style at Miss Gee’s, a specialty cocktail lounge and the ideal spot for a nightcap or a boogie.
There’s a focus on bringing people together and keeping the party going, so expect tasty food, memorable drinks (in addition to their cocktails, there’s also an impressive range of botanical gin) and vibey music that is sure to get your feet tapping. Alternatively, if you just want to put your tired feet up, cosy Luxe Cinemas offers a number of carefully chosen films. Screening more than just blockbusters, there’s a range of artsy and alternative films too. Paired with locally made coffee, beer and wine, it’s the dream setup for tired explorers.
This story originally featured on Neat Places.