EXPLORE OUR BACKYARD
Things to do in Tauranga & Bay of Plenty
Places to visit and activities during your stay
ACTIVITY OPTIONS
From stunning walks to a stroll along the beach or visit to a farmers’ market, there is no shortage of things to do in Tauranga and the Bay of Plenty, and across into Hauraki for the rail trail. Got a favourite to add to our list for River Oaks Retreat guests to consider? We’d love to hear your suggestions!
Walk up/around Mauao (the Mount)
Location: Mount Maunganui. Parking on Marine Parade is popular
Distance from River Oaks: 32km
Mauao is an iconic landmark, delivering spectacular views from the top, and also when you walk around it. People walk up it and run up it, with the effort very much worth it when you get to the top.
GLOW WORM KAYAKING
Location: 36 Taniwha Place, Bethlehem, Tauranga, 3176
Distance from River Oaks: 18km
Waimarino Kayak Tours, which is about a 15 minute drive from River Oaks Retreat, has a variety of options, including an evening glowworm kayak tour.
Hauraki Rail Trail - Paeroa to Waihi
Location: Paeroa (starting point)
Distance from River Oaks Retreat: 59km
The most popular section of the Hauraki Rail Trail, which has various ride options, follows the Ohinemuri River through the dramatic Karangahake Gorge. It’s best to check out the website to go over where to start the Paeroa to Waihi route and transport options.
Visit the little big markets
Location: Mount Maunganui. Tauranga, or Papamoa. Check the website for the next market’s location
Distance from River Oaks: 30-35km
The Little Big Markets is a ‘diverse array of local artisans, food vendors, and live entertainment in a lively, friendly-friendly atmosphere’. Visit the website to view where and when in Tauranga, Mount Maunganui or Papamoa the next market will be held.
EXPLORE TE PUNA QUARRY PARK
Location: 110 Te Puna Quarry Road, RD 7, Te Puna 3176
Distance from River Oaks: 14km
An amazing team of volunteers have transformed a disused quarry into a stunning park that is waiting for you to explore. You can walk for a few minutes to an hour or more. It is a great place to visit, has easy parking and is very close to River Oaks.
TAKE A WALK THROUGH A STUNNING RESERVE
Location: Puketoki Scenic Reserve, Leyland Rd, Whakamarama
Distance from River Oaks Retreat: 18km
There is a short loop (20 minutes) and a long loop (one hour) at Puketoki, which is one of the oldest reserves in the Western Bay of Plenty. Car parking, a picnic area right by the water, and toilets are located at the entrance. The reserve is also a running option too, and has a slightly cooler temperature when you enter.
Head to Mount Main Beach
Location: Marine Parade, Mount Maunganui
Distance from River Oaks: 35km
Mount Maunganui Main Beach is a great spot to go for a stroll along, or just sit and relax and enjoy a gelato. There are plenty of cafes nearby too to grab a coffee from. Looking to learn to surf and one day be as good as this guy in the photo? There are a few options to check out via a Google search.
BOOK A SCENIC HELICOPTER FLIGHT
Location: Aerodrome Rd, Mount Maunganui
Distance from River Oaks: 32km
Get an aerial view of the Western Bay of Plenty by arranging a scenic helicopter flight. The link in the website is a good starting point. Go check it out to get an idea of prices and options.
TAKE A BOAT CRUISE
Location: Different departure points
Love being out on the water? Head out onto the water to see Mount Maunganui and Western Bay from the vantage point of a boat. There are a few options – including ones that appeal to dolphin watchers, and to divers. There is also the scenic harbour cruise on the historic Kewpie (pictured in the photo) to check out.
Add to our list
share your favourite thing to do in the bay
Visited somewhere during your stay at River Oaks that you think should go on the things to do list? We’d love to hear about it!
Contact Us
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with any questions about River Oaks Retreat. We look forward to hearing from you.
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232 Wainui South Road, RD 4, Katikati 3181