Family Fun in the Bay of Plenty
The Bay of Plenty is packed with activities that balance sunshine, adventure, and relaxation. From sandy beaches to wildlife encounters, here’s how to make sure the whole family gets the most out of this incredible part of the country.
With its golden coastline, friendly towns and year-round appeal, the Bay of Plenty is one of New Zealand’s best family destinations. Whether your kids are keen to explore rock pools, meet marine life, or burn energy in the great outdoors, there’s something here for every age group. And, when you’ve got a Dollar rental car by your side, you’ve got an easy way of taking your family around the bay. Let’s dive into it!
Beach Days in Mount Maunganui
Mount Maunganui is the Bay of Plenty’s most famous beach town, and for good reason. The main beach offers gentle waves for younger swimmers and plenty of space for sandcastle building. For a quieter spot, head to Pilot Bay, where the water is calm and perfect for paddleboarding or a relaxed swim.
Climb or Walk Around the Mount
Mauao, the volcanic cone that overlooks Mount Maunganui, has two family-friendly options: a summit track for older kids who can manage a decent climb, and a base track that circles the mountain with minimal elevation. Both routes reward you with sweeping views of the coast.
Kiwi Encounters at Kiwi 360
Just outside Te Puke, Kiwi 360 offers a fun way for kids to learn about New Zealand’s most famous fruit. The guided tour takes you through orchards, explains the growing process, and even includes a ride on a quirky kiwifruit-shaped vehicle. There’s also a café for snacks and treats.
Explore McLaren Falls Park
A short drive from Tauranga, McLaren Falls Park is perfect for a picnic or gentle bushwalk. The park is home to a beautiful waterfall, wide open spaces, and resident ducks that are always happy for a visit. At night, certain tracks reveal glowworms—an exciting bonus for kids.
Dolphin and Wildlife Cruises
From Tauranga, you can join a family-friendly cruise to spot dolphins, seabirds, and sometimes even orcas. Many operators offer half-day trips, making it easy to fit into your schedule. Kids will love the chance to see marine life in its natural habitat.
Wrapping Up a Bay of Plenty Adventure
With sun, sea, and activities that mix learning and fun, the Bay of Plenty makes family travel feel easy. And renting a car from Dollar lets you put all these experiences on the map—from beachy mornings to wildlife-spotting afternoons—creating a trip that everyone will remember long after it’s over.