6 things to do
Mount Maunganui is a resort town focused on the beach, the promenade with its shops and nearby summit for its spectacular views. Attractions include an iconic salt water pool, superb shopping precinct adjacent to the beach and a relaxed summer holiday culture. For ideas remember to check out Bay of Plenty guide, things to do. The Mount is a great hub to further explore the Bay of Plenty
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CLIMB A HILL MOUNT MAUNGANUI (MAUAO) – TOP ATTRACTION
Unmissable, a beautiful hill smack dead in the middle of the town.
There are a lot of steps up the 232 metre slope to climb. It’s worth the effort for the 360 views of the town, Tauranga and the coastline.
For the faint of heart or its a step too far the base walk is equally impressive as it circles both the ocean and harbour coastline.
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SOAK IN WARM SALT WATER POOLS
Revive and refresh the body at Mount Hot Pools, The experience is a must-do. Salt water minerals soak into the pores with the backdrop of the glorious Mount.
The pools offer massage treatments, hydrotherapy pools with massage jets, sheer bliss and a children’s pool.
Luxuriate in a private pool with your own personal massage booked and ready to go.
Check out more hot water pools and mineral springs in the Bay of Plenty.
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UNWIND AT THE BEACH – MOUNT MAUNGANUI MAIN BEACH
An enticing mix of sun, sand, surf, shops and foodie treats makes Main Beach one of the world’s top beaches and it is accessible to all. Beautiful people, beautiful beaches and underneath the gloss and glamour is a kiwi icon. Families with kids in swimming gear, couples only focused on each other, laughing groups enjoying the relaxed atmosphere the Mount has something for everyone. Bondi Beach eat your heart out, a kiwi competitor has upped the stakes in the fabulous beach contest. The Mount’s beach stretches into wide gold sand horizons merging into Papamoa and beyond into Mateku. Surf schools, lifeguards, well maintained change / toilet facilities ensure visitors are well catered for.
PILOT BEACH
The flip side of the Main beach is the calm harbour Pilot beach where kayakers, SUP paddlers test their ability and children have a gentle beach to practice their swimming skills. Both beaches are patrolled by lifeguards in the peak summer season.
The beach is where many summer festivals are held.
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WALK TO MOTURIKI ISLAND
The minuscule island is only 350 metres in length. Adjacent to Main Beach it is conveniently connected with a walkway.
Discover the blowhole at high tide and follow the walking track to the highest point for views of the ocean, as well as Mount Maunganui (Mauao), the city and coastline.
Kids will enjoy the rockpools and intertidal marine life, observe locals adroitly rock fishing from places safe from the occasional rogue waves as the tide surges in.
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RETAIL THERAPY – SHOPS, SHOPPING
The string of cafes, restaurants, bars, gift shops and stores catering for the summer visitors beckon and tempt beach goers to stop and explore. There is a Farmers Market every Sunday 9am to 1pm at Te Papa O Nga Manu Porotakataka. With over 100 shops and requisite doctors, dentists, lawyers and accountants the area is fully serviced with modern amenities.
DID WE MENTION THE WORD SHOPPING MALL?
BAYFAIR – Mount Maunganui
Bayfair is the one stop shop for shopping, dining, and entertainment. With a newly opened cinema and dining precinct the modern shopping centre is a light filled airy space and great place to meet and greet new friends or the very occasional rainy day.
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SWING A CLUB – MOUNT MAUNGANUI GOLF COURSE
Walk from the beach in five minutes and you have arrived at one of the Bay of Plenty’s premier golf courses. The tree lined golf course is beautifully manicured. The 18 hole course has a well stocked Pro Shop and coaching facilities, a modern venue for a range of functions, on-site catering, and a fully licensed bar.
Read more Mount Maunganui where to eat and drink.
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