we headed to Tauranga, a sun-soaked city on the Bay of Plenty known for its beaches, laid-back vibe, and stunning coastal scenery. It’s the perfect spot to unwind, explore, and enjoy New Zealand’s sunny east coast.

We spent time along Mount Maunganui, a favorite local and visitor spot. A climb to the summit rewards you with panoramic views of the city, coastline, and Pacific Ocean, sunrise and sunset are especially spectacular. For a more leisurely experience, the beaches are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or just strolling along the golden sands.

Tauranga is also a hub for water-based adventures. Sailing, paddleboarding, and fishing are popular ways to enjoy the Bay of Plenty, while local cafes and restaurants serve fresh seafood with waterfront views. We loved exploring downtown Tauranga, which blends charming streets with vibrant markets and boutique shopping.

There are some places that settle into your memory quietly but deeply. Tauranga and Rotorua were exactly that for us. Our day unfolded with a calm beauty that only New Zealand seems able to offer, where every landscape feels like it’s been painted with care and every moment carries a sense of connection to the land.

We started our morning in Taranga with a gentle walk along Pilot Bay, the water lapping quietly at the shore and Mount Maunganui (Mauao) standing proudly in the background. No matter how many photos you’ve seen, nothing prepares you for the serene power of this place.

Pilot Bay felt like a living, breathing part of the community, locals walking their dogs, paddleboarders drifting across the bay, families cycling along the path, all set against the timeless backdrop of the Māori village and the dock that has served generations. There’s a feeling here that the mountain watches over the town, grounding everything in its shadow.

We wandered from the waterfront to the beachfront, where the sand stretched out in a golden arc. You can swim, surf, play volleyball, or simply sit and listen to the Pacific rolling in. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to slow down, breathe a little deeper, and just appreciate where you are.

From the sea breeze of Taranga, our journey took us inland to Pongakawa, where we visited a kiwi farm — something I’d always wanted to experience. Rows upon rows of kiwi vines stretched above us, the fruit growing in clusters, quietly waiting to ripen.

What struck us most was how important kiwi fruit is to New Zealand. It’s not just an export; it’s a symbol of resilience, innovation, and identity. Farmers here take immense pride in their work, and seeing the process up close made us appreciate every kiwi we’ve ever eaten. There’s something grounding about walking through those orchards, surrounded by the soft hum of bees and the sweet smell of growing fruit.

Our next stop brought the energy level right back up when we arrived at Okere Falls, just outside Rotorua. We arrived to the sound of rushing water and laughter echoing across the river. Kayakers hurled themselves down the rapids, disappearing into white foam before popping back up triumphantly.

The forest here is alive. You can hear it in the rustle of leaves, the birdsong hidden between branches, and the steady heartbeat of the falls. The greenery is so rich it almost glows with deep emerald ferns, moss-covered rocks, and towering trees framing the water. We even spotted a silver fern, iconic to New Zealand and deeply rooted in its cultural identity. Seeing one in the wild felt strangely special, like being welcomed into the country’s story.

From the rapids, we moved into one of the most breathtaking landscapes of our trip, the Redwoods of the Whakarewarewa Forest. The moment we stepped into the grove, everything felt still. These giants rise straight into the sky, their trunks warm and red, their branches forming a cathedral-like ceiling above.

Walking through the forest felt almost spiritual. Sunlight filtered through the leaves in golden shards, and the forest floor was soft and quiet underfoot. The redwoods are powerful, ancient, and calming all at once.

2025-02