Tauranga is a fantastic destination for families, offering a wide range of activities that cater to all ages. From beautiful beaches and outdoor adventures to interactive museums and fun parks, Tauranga has plenty to keep the whole family entertained. Here’s a guide to some of the best family activities in Tauranga:

1. Beaches and Water Activities

Mount Maunganui Main Beach: One of New Zealand’s most popular beaches, Mount Maunganui offers safe swimming, surfing lessons, and paddleboarding. The soft sand and shallow waters make it ideal for kids, and there are plenty of nearby cafes and playgrounds.

Pilot Bay: Located on the harbor side of Mount Maunganui, Pilot Bay is a calm and sheltered spot perfect for swimming, kayaking, and picnicking. It’s a great spot for younger children who enjoy playing in the shallows.

Dolphin and Wildlife Cruises: Families can enjoy boat trips that offer the chance to see dolphins, seals, and occasionally whales in their natural habitat. These cruises are both educational and thrilling for kids and adults alike.

2. Outdoor Parks and Nature Walks

Mount Maunganui Summit and Base Track: A must-do activity in Tauranga, the Mount Maunganui summit track offers stunning views of the coastline and is a moderate challenge for older kids. The base track is flatter and more suitable for younger children, offering beautiful ocean views and the chance to spot wildlife.

McLaren Falls Park: A beautiful park just outside Tauranga, McLaren Falls features a picturesque lake, stunning waterfalls, and walking trails. Families can enjoy picnicking, kayaking, and feeding the resident ducks. At night, the park is also known for its glow worms along some of the walking tracks.

Waimarino Adventure Park: A water adventure park on the Wairoa River, Waimarino offers activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, a hydroslide, a water trampoline, and a climbing wall. It’s an action-packed day out for families who love water sports and outdoor fun.

3. Fun Parks and Playgrounds

Memorial Park: One of Tauranga’s best family-friendly parks, Memorial Park has a large playground, a miniature railway, paddle boats, a splash pad, and picnic areas. It’s a great spot for a relaxed day out with plenty of activities to keep kids entertained.

Fergusson Park: A popular waterfront park with open spaces, sports fields, and a playground. It’s perfect for kite flying, biking, and enjoying the harbor views.

The Historic Village: A charming re-creation of an early Tauranga township with restored and replica buildings, art studios, boutique shops, and cafes. The Historic Village hosts events, markets, and has a small playground, making it a fun and educational outing.

4. Indoor Activities and Museums

Classic Flyers Aviation Museum: This interactive museum showcases a collection of classic aircraft and aviation memorabilia. Kids can explore planes, sit in cockpits, and even enjoy a ride on the mini pedal planes. The museum also features a great outdoor playground and café.

Tauranga Art Gallery: While primarily an art gallery, the Tauranga Art Gallery often hosts family-friendly exhibitions and interactive workshops that engage children with art in creative ways.

Rocktopia: An indoor climbing center that offers fun climbing challenges for kids and adults of all abilities. It features colorful climbing walls, a leap of faith, and vertical drop slides, providing a safe and thrilling adventure.

5. Animal Encounters and Wildlife

Marshalls Animal Park: Located in McLaren Falls Park, Marshalls Animal Park offers a hands-on experience where kids can feed and interact with farm animals, including sheep, goats, alpacas, and donkeys.

Te Puna Quarry Park: A unique park with beautiful gardens, sculptures, and walking tracks. It’s also home to various birds and butterflies, and the park’s natural setting offers a peaceful family outing.

6. Bike Trails and Skate Parks

Cycle and Skate Parks: Tauranga has several family-friendly cycleways and skate parks, including the Memorial Park Skate Park and the Omokoroa to Tauranga Cycleway, offering safe, off-road paths for biking and skating.

Blake Park: A popular sports and recreation hub in Mount Maunganui, featuring fields, playgrounds, and a dedicated skate park.

7. Seasonal Events and Markets

Little Big Markets: Held monthly, these markets feature food trucks, local crafts, and often live music and entertainment. It’s a lively atmosphere perfect for a family day out.

Strawberry Picking at Somerfield Berry Farm: Seasonal berry picking is a fun family activity where kids can pick their own strawberries and enjoy fresh fruit ice creams.