Bay of Plenty

The Bay of Plenty is a precious place. From the lively town of Tauranga, two and a half hours from Auckland, and it's surrounding beaches, it changes dramatically to the thermal reserve and New Zealand's must see place, Rotorua. You will be gifted to find this much contrast in an area just a few hours away from each other.

Places

Towns

Tauranga 100,000 people
Rotorua 76,000 people

Places

Mt Tarawera

Couchsurfers

There are 26 members in Tauranga, half of which are active
There are 13 members in Rotorua and half are active
Dec06

Attractions

Plenty to do in the bay of Plenty. 3 different thermal reserves in Rotorua
Traditional, cheesy and touristy Maori performances
Walks of Mt Tarawera, with a huge scoria crater
Beautiful beaches from Tauranga to Whakatane
A trip to an active volcanic island, White Island
Visit one of many kiwi fruit orchards

Tips

Avoid all the tourist traps in Rotorua! Try the tours that are quiet, go visit your own marae, stay clear of the queues and use the locals to show you all the best parts.
Go to the parks and gardens and see all the thermal activity for free.
At one of the reserves there is a free Maori performance at midday
There are some great walks in and around Rotorua and in the forest.
Visit the buried village near Mt Tarawera.
Visit all the picturesque lakes of this region.
Mokoia Island in the centre of Lake Rotorua houses some rare birds, so get away from it all and go exploring.