Top 15 things to do in Mount Maunganui

Soak up the views on top of the Mauao / Mount Maunganui Summit

Make your trip truly memorable with a hike to the summit of Mount Maunganui, also known as Mauao. Suitable for those with moderate fitness levels, there are two scenic tracks to choose from, each taking approximately 40 minutes to complete. The summit of Mauao stands at 232 metres high. Once you reach the top, you’ll be treated to panoramic 360-degree views that are nothing short of spectacular. Take in the vistas of Tauranga Harbour, the Pacific Ocean, and the distant Kaimai Ranges. 

 

Image: Tourism New Zealand

 

Try stand-up paddleboarding

What better way to immerse yourself in the waters of Mount Maunganui than to try stand-up paddleboarding (SUP)? This fun, eco-friendly water sport combines elements of surfing and kayaking. Balance atop a longboard and propel yourself across the ocean using a single paddle. If you’ve never tried SUPing before, now’s a great time to book a lesson and learn. If you’re keen on a unique SUP experience, join in on a paddle with Mauao Adventures and hear fascinating ancient stories. You can then enjoy a snack and a walk on the mountain. The friendly instructors will make sure your SUP experience is enjoyable and safe.

 

Stroll along Mount Maunganui Beach

For a leisurely activity, take a stroll along the pristine sands of Mount Maunganui Beach. Known for its white sandy shoreline and clear waters, this beach offers tranquillity in spades. It's a wonderful spot for a sunrise or sunset walk, and the nearby Mount Maunganui walking track is perfect for those who want a bit more of a challenge. Gaze at the vast Pacific Ocean, watch surfers ride the waves, or just soak in the beach's vibrant atmosphere - it's a simple pleasure that embodies the essence of a Kiwi holiday.

 

Explore Moturiki Island

A volcanic outcrop adjacent to Mount Maunganui Beach, Moturiki Island offers a short but rewarding adventure. Connected to the mainland by a land bridge, it's an easy walk that will take you through unique vegetation before opening up to stunning sea views. The island's main attraction is a natural blowhole that gushes seawater during high tide. A bird's eye view of the beach, the vast ocean, and the ever-present Mount Maunganui makes Moturiki Island a must-visit.

 

Image: Tourism New Zealand

 

Unwind in the local hot pools

After a day packed with adventure, there's no better place to unwind than Mount Hot Pools. Sitting at the base of the iconic Mount Maunganui, this geothermally heated spa facility offers a soothing and therapeutic experience. The pools overlook the ocean, providing a unique opportunity to relax your body in warm water while soaking in the stunning coastal views. Open until late, you can even indulge in a relaxing dip under the stars - the perfect way to cap off a perfect day in this idyllic North Island destination.

 

Enjoy lunch at Rice Rice Baby

Located right in the heart of Mount Maunganui, Rice Rice Baby offers a culinary experience like no other. Known for its authentic Asian flavours and casual, vibrant atmosphere, this local favourite is the perfect lunch stop on your campervan adventure. Their menu is a celebration of fresh, local ingredients with crowd-pleasers like the crispy pork belly in sticky sauce or Vietnamese duck salad. Head along between 4 – 6 pm for Happy Hour and try one of their amazing cocktails. 

 

Stock up on fresh produce from the farmers market

A Saturday morning visit to the Tauranga Farmers Market is a treat not to be missed. Located at the Tauranga Primary School, the market operates from 7.45 am to 12 pm. Here, you'll find an array of local producers offering the freshest fruits, vegetables, baked goods, and artisanal products. It's a fantastic opportunity to support the local community, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, and stock your Britz campervan with tasty, wholesome provisions for your journey.

 

Get your adrenaline going at Bay Station

For those seeking a thrill during their New Zealand road trip, a visit to Bay Station at Baypark is a must. Located on Truman Lane, Bay Station offers adrenaline-inducing activities such as drift trikes, laser tag, and blokarting. With both indoor and outdoor tracks available, the fun doesn't stop, rain or shine. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or looking for some family-friendly fun, Bay Station is sure to get your pulse racing.

 

Image: Tourism New Zealand

 

Sample the local craft beer

Fancy a decent brew? Swing by The Rising Tide for a cold one. This craft beer lover's paradise is the perfect spot to sample a rotating selection of handcrafted brews on tap. Choose from crisp pilsners to robust stouts, each one showcasing the best of New Zealand's vibrant craft beer scene. Paired with their offering of delicious dumplings, it's the ideal destination to soak up the local ambience and raise a toast to your unforgettable New Zealand adventure.

 

Enjoy a game of mini golf

Experience fun for all ages at Golf 360. With an array of creatively designed holes, Golf 360 offers an exciting challenge for novice players and mini-golf enthusiasts alike. The vibrant course offers a fun-filled way to spend an afternoon. And for serious golfers, take a swing on Golf360’s driving range while you’re there. 

 

Take in the views from above

See this beautiful part of New Zealand from a whole new perspective. Skydive Tauranga offers the unparalleled thrill of soaring above the beautiful Bay of Plenty. This unforgettable experience begins with a plane ride up to altitude before you take the exhilarating leap into the open sky. As you freefall at 200 km/hr, you'll be treated to spectacular panoramic views of the coastline, the lush countryside, and of course, the majestic Mount Maunganui. 

 

Give rock climbing a try

Unleash your inner adventurer at Rocktopia, Mount Maunganui's exciting indoor rock-climbing venue. With a variety of climbing walls and routes suited for all ages and abilities, Rocktopia is all about challenging yourself physically while having a great time. Whether you're a seasoned climber or a beginner ready to take on a new challenge, this fun destination offers an adventure that's both exhilarating and rewarding.

 

Tickle your tastebuds at Alpino

For an authentic Italian dining experience, head to Alpino, located in downtown Mount Maunganui. This popular eatery serves up a menu filled with classic dishes, from their hand-tossed Caprese pizzas to homemade pasta. And all featuring locally sourced ingredients. Favourites like the seared tuna carpaccio or the Gambero pizza make Alpino a go-to destination for a memorable dinner.

 

Window shop down Maunganui Road

Take a leisurely stroll down Maunganui Road, the main shopping street in Mount Maunganui. Browse through the eclectic mix of boutique stores, trendy cafes, and local artisan shops. Whether you're on the hunt for a new outfit, unique souvenirs, or simply window shopping, there's something to pique your interest here. Add in the street's laid-back, beachy vibe, and you have the perfect setting for a relaxed shopping spree.

 

Learn how to surf

Catch your first wave with the locally owned and award-winning Hibiscus Surf School. Offering lessons for beginners to advanced surfers, the friendly instructors provide a safe and fun environment for you to learn and perfect your surfing skills. Lessons are held daily at the Main Beach, where the warm waters and consistent waves make it an ideal spot for surfers of all levels. Get ready to ride the waves and feel the exhilarating rush of surfing.

 

Image: Tourism New Zealand

 

Where to stay in Mount Maunganui

Looking for a convenient and comfortable place to park up your campervan in Mount Maunganui? Here are two of our top recommendations.

 

Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park

Situated right at the base of the iconic Mauao, Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park offers prime access to both the beach and the local attractions. The park's unrivalled location means you're just a stone's throw away from the Mount Hot Pools and the bustling Maunganui Road. The holiday park boasts ample parking for campervans, along with communal kitchen and barbecue facilities, a laundry room, and Wi-Fi access, ensuring you have all the essentials you need for a comfortable stay.

 

Cosy Corner Holiday Park Mt Maunganui

Just a five-minute walk from the beach, Cosy Corner Holiday Park is a peaceful retreat away from the crowds while still being conveniently close to the action. This family-friendly park offers spacious sites for campervans, modern kitchen facilities, and a heated swimming pool. Plus, with a kids' playground on site, it's an ideal choice for those travelling with younger ones. Note, Cosy Corner is open between 20 December – 12 April, plus Labour Weekend, only. 

 

Ready for your next adventure?

Now that you have a list of all the great things do to in Mt Maunganui, it’s time to book a Britz campervan online and make it happen!

Whether you're soaring through the skies or simply basking on the sun-soaked beaches, your Britz campervan will provide a comfortable and convenient base to return home to. Simply pick up your camper from our Auckland branch and let the journey begin. 

Explore at your own pace, take the scenic route, and fall in love with every incredible moment that Mount Maunganui has to offer. There's no time like the present - your ultimate Kiwi adventure awaits!