Mount Maunganui is a conical dormant volcano that sits at the end of a peninsula with a sweeping, white sand beach on one side, and one of New Zealand's largest harbours on the other.
Mount Maunganui township is a thriving hub of activity in the summer and a quiet, peaceful beachside town during the winter months. But year-round it offers a laid-back caf scene, some exquisite dining, interesting craft and souvenir shops, as well as a spectacular beach and harbour only minutes from the main centre.
Visitors to Mount Maunganui peninsula will find history, culture, spectacular scenery and an abundance of activity all in the one place.
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The Mount The Mount, or Mauao as the volcano is also known, is home to a variety of native birds and is covered with a mix of bush and grasslands, complete with grazing sheep. It has great historical significance in that it was once a logical pa site, its natural advantages compounded by a narrow pass which served as the summit's only means of access and which could be held by a mere handful of defenders. Today, visitors and locals take great pleasure in walking the base track or hiking to the summit of Mount Maunganui. The base walking track is one of the most popular attractions of this beautiful peninsula. Although a base track, it offers superb scenery of the inner harbour and busy port, the main harbour entrance, small rocky bays that are good for snorkelling or, if you are lucky, spotting the odd sea-lion, and the ocean and main Mount Maunganui beach. About 3km in circumference, the base track is relatively gentle and usable for most fitness levels, taking about 45 minutes to an hour for a leisurely walk. There is also plenty of time to view the spectacular scenery with picnic chairs and tables at various points along the track. A hike to the summit, approximately 232 metres, of Mount Maunganui is more suitable for those whose fitness levels are average or above. The view from the top is outstanding, offering superb views of surrounding islands, and the Mount beaches and harbour. This hike takes approximately 1 hours to complete, however, this will vary depending on which track you take and your level of fitness.
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Hot Pools Take the time to relax at one Mount Maunganui's unique attractions, situated at the foothill of Mauao itself, just minutes from the main downtown shopping centre of the Mount. The soothing hot saltwater pools are well known for their relaxing properties and are designed for the whole family to enjoy. The modern complex includes tepid lap pool, hot passive pool, aquajet spa pools and private pools all warmed to 39oC. Active pool and children's pool 32oC. Other activities include sunbed, refreshments, and fully qualified masseuse available. Tariff: $4-$5 (adult), $3-$2.50 (child), $3-$2.50 (senior). They are open from 6am to 10pm daily. The Beach Mount Maunganui is one of the most popular Bay of Plenty beaches. The small town's population increases dramatically over the Christmas and New Year break, with visitors flocking to beach side festivals, concerts, and sporting events such as surfing, volleyball and triathlon competitions. For visitors wanting to relax, this sweeping beach, with its small bays, also provides plenty of space for sunbathing, swimming or snorkeling.
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Moturiki Island Located just off Mt Maunganui's stunning surf beach, Moturiki Island was once the site ofan aquarium. The former Leisure Island has now reverted back to its wild state, with a little help from the community, Environment BOPand the Tauranga District Council. The tiny island, joined to the shore by a manmade walkway, offers a good track for those whose fitness levels are not that high. At its summit your effort is rewarded by superb views over the Pacific Ocean and offshore islands. You can fish from the rocks and it is a good vantage point for those wishing to watch some of the many ocean-going events held off the coast each summer, from the ocean jet boat racing toaction from the surf life savingchampionships. Golfing Boasting one of the most up to date, spaciously luxurious club houses in the country, the Mount Maunganui Golf Club, with its championship 18 hole, Par 72, 6082m course, offers golfers challenges to satisfy all levels of players, as well as a year-round benign climate. The course is located within a few minutes drive of Mount Maunganui beach, New Zealand's number one holiday attraction for both local and overseas visitors Visitors are most welcome. Contact Mount Maunganui Golf Club at:
15 Fairway Avenue
Mount Maunganui
Phone: +64-7 575 3888
Rock Climbing The Rock House in Mount Maunganui provides safe and fun indoor rock climbing for all ages and abilities in a safe and controlled environment. For the more adventurous they also run guided out-door climbing trips. Contact Rock House at:
9 Triton Avenue
Mount Maunganui
Phone: +64-7 572 4920 |
