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tauranga
 Discover the
‘Coast with the Most’ in sunny Tauranga, the fastest
growing city in New Zealand.
Captain Cook found abundant supplies here and named this coast
the Bay of Plenty. Today there is indeed plenty to attract
visitors. Tauranga has the most sunshine hours in the North
Island, a bountiful harvest of fruit and a big-hearted welcome
for visitors. The relaxed lifestyle here is focused on the
beaches, à la carte restaurants (serving local award winning
wines), sidewalk cafés and shops.
 Tauranga is surrounded by a clean sandy harbour protected from
the sea by a 24 km barrier of sand dunes called Matakana Island.
The harbour entrance is dominated by the imposing volcanic cone
of Mt. Maunganui. It overlooks Ocean Beach which is a prime
holiday location.
The city has an interesting Historic Village with a collection of
restored colonial buildings. On special occasions volunteers
dress up in period costumes. On permanent display in the city
centre is a traditional Maori war canoe with very ornate
carvings. Robbins Park is a quiet oasis with a delightful rose
garden. The Fernland Hot Pools are a great spot for relaxation.
 There is no shortage of adrenalin pumping activities in the
northern Bay of Plenty and local operators offer bungee rockets,
parachuting, sky diving, parasailing, micro lighting, white water
rafting, jet boating, fishing and diving. If you would like to
try your hand at something new the dirt track luge is a
worthwhile challenge.
The Kaimai-Mamaku Forest Park forms the backdrop to Tauranga.
This very accessible wilderness area has multi-day tramping
routes for the adventurous and also a selection of short day
walks.
Mayor Island, a volcanic cone some 25 kms offshore, is a major
attraction for visitors. A glittering jewel in the blue Pacific
offering the perfect escape - snorkelling in clear waters and
swimming with dolphins in their natural environment. Park rangers
offer guided tours to interpret the flora, fauna and geology of
the island.
Tauranga offers an abundance of good things - the best fun under
the sun.
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