The Bay of Plenty is a region with everything to offer! From the mountain to the beach to the farm, there is an unlimited array of things to do. This region is well known for it's laid back beach lifestyle, and one of the fastest growing parts of New Zealand. The region was given it's name by none other than Captain Cook. Arriving in around 1770, Cook was impressed by the abundance of crops able to be grown in the fertile soil. Today agriculture is a big export earner for the region. Kiwifruit is one of the top growers, exported around the world.

Recommended Sites

The Bay of Plenty has so much to offer locals and visitors alike. For more information on the area here are some popular websites with tourism and local info:

http://www.bayofplenty.co.nz (Bay of Plenty)

http://www.bestoftauranga.com (Tauranga - Largest city)

http://www.mountmaunganui.org.nz (Mt Maunganui )

http://www.whakatane.com (Easternmost city)
But 'plenty' isn't just limited to food (although there is a high number of restaurants and eateries). Activities and things to do are plentiful, and it's no surprise with the coastline dominating the region. Miles of sandy white beaches stretch from Waihi in the North, to Whangaparaoa Bay to the East. Water activities are a tourist favourite with dolphin and whale watching, game fishing and diving available year round. Local islands include Matakana Island, Mayor Island and the active volcanic White Island.
White Island is well known for its volcanic activity, but Mount Maunganui (the mountain overlooking the beach) isn't...luckily. Situated and the end of a peninsula, and the mouth of the harbour, it imposes over seaside village Mount Maunganui. You can see 'the Mount' from miles around, and the 45 minute walk to it's summit provides the best views in the North Island. Tauranga is the largest city in the region and also where the Port of Tauranga is located.

VisitPlenty.co.nz