Bay of Plenty
The sweep of beaches fringing the Bay of Plenty have been a drawcard for generations of holidaymakers. Yet Tauranga and Mt Maunganui offer an up-beat lifestyle complete with modern apartments, trendy cafes, bars, boutiques and malls.
Want to escape the city? Then choose one of the seaside towns from Waihi to Whakatane, friendly Katikati or Te Puke as your base.
Want action? Charter a boat to the marlin and sport fishing grounds, play gold, try paragliding, skydiving, jet skiing, gliding or white water rafting.
Enjoy the walk around The Mount (free), but there's also horse treks, animal and theme parks, thermal pools, 4WD safaris, jet boating, and swimming with dolphins!