Mount Maunganui

Tauranga is the largest city in the Bay of Plenty and boasts New Zealand's busiest export port. The city centre is situated on the sheltered Tauranga Harbour, with beaches, kiwi plantations, and the Kaimai Range just a short drive away.

Matamata is a rural small town in Waikato, surrounded by pastureland and horse studs. It is known for the Hobbiton Movie Set on a sheep farm west of the town, where the Hobbit holes from Peter Jackson's films are permanently preserved and can only be visited on a guided tour.

The Bay of Plenty stretches along the northern coast of the North Island from Waihi Beach to the East Cape. Long sandy beaches, the port city of Tauranga, the volcanic cone Mauao in Mount Maunganui, and the active volcanic island Whakaari characterize this sun-drenched region, where a large portion of New Zealand's kiwifruit grows.

Ohinemutu, a vibrant Māori village on Lake Rotorua, offers you an authentic glimpse into the culture of the Ngāti Whakaue. Characteristic is its geothermal activity, with steam rising from vents, traditionally used for cooking and heating. Highlights include the impressive meeting house Tamatekapua Wharenui with intricate carvings, and the unique St. Faith's Church, which blends European and Māori architecture. Here, you'll experience how residents utilize hot springs and discover artistic Tiki carvings that tell the stories of ancestors. For deeper insights into customs and traditions, a guided tour is recommended; visit the village ideally in the morning for tranquility and optimal geothermal experiences.

In Rotorua, the Government Gardens invite you to stroll through meticulously maintained parkland, blending history with scenic beauty. At the heart of the park is the Rotorua Museum, housed in the former Bath House, an impressive example of Elizabethan architecture. These lands were originally gifted to the Crown by the Māori, the Iwi Ngāti Whakaue, for the development of a spa town. The gardens showcase a blend of exotic plants and traditional Māori artworks, reflecting the site's dual history. Stroll through the rose gardens and enjoy views of Lake Rotorua. For deeper geothermal insights, the nearby free Kuirau Park is recommended. Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to experience the special light and tranquility.