Mt Maunganui

Mt Maunganui is a volcanic cone on the end of a huge sand spit. The deep blue of the Pacific Ocean stretches as far as the eye can see, the vista interrupted only by surfers, windsurfers, small islands and boats carrying keen anglers in search of the stuff fishing legends are made of.

The township of Mt Maunganui is known as the beach suburb of Tauranga. Its magnificent views and beaches make it a popular spot with the locals, who refer to it as 'The Mount'. As a centre for summertime activities, The Mount hosts everything from surf lifesaving events to beach volleyball, parasailing, sandcastle building and surfing contests. Surf lifesaving guards are on duty to ensure safe swimming in the beautiful Pacific Ocean.

The mountain of Mt Maunganui, known to the local Maori people as Mauao, is shrouded in legend and history. It’s the dominant geological feature of the Tauranga district, with its conical rocky outline rising 232m above sea level. It has been of great importance to local Maori for more than six centuries as a place of occupation and later as a defensive refuge in times of battle. Evidence of this is still visible today.

The gently undulating track around the base winds from the ocean to the harbour. Tracks also lead to the summit for some of the best ocean and city views anywhere in the country.