Bay of Plenty Outdoor Activities

Whether you prefer a gentle stroll, sweat-inducing hike, exhilarating cycle or tactical game of golf, the Bay of Plenty is the place to do it. Grab your running shoes. It's time to get active.

Get your heart pumping in the Bay of Plenty, as you discover the stunning scenery and the many different ways to enjoy outdoor activities. There are thousands of kilometres of walking and cycling trails weaving along rugged coastlines, up forested mountains and across wildlife-laden islands. Fancy something more manicured? The Bay of Plenty also offers velvety golf courses with views that are downright distracting.

Breathe in the fresh air, watch for wildlife and listen to the sounds of nature as you embrace your old pal, the great outdoors. From kayaking to swimming, paddleboards to mountain bikes, the choices are as rich as the landscape. Here are just a few:

Image: Katie Cox for Tourism Bay of Plenty

Walks and Hikes

  • Hike back into a time of untouched, virgin forests in the Whirinaki Te Pua-a-Tāne Conservation Park, where you'll find an ancient podocarp forest, waterfalls and rivers. Just magical.
  • Embark on one of the family-friendly strolls around the town of Waihi Beach, where native bush and ocean views are tonic for the soul.
  • Upon summiting Mauao, Mount Maunganui's iconic mountain, you'll be rewarded with jaw-dropping 360-degree views. Recommended for those with moderate fitness.

Image: Tourism Bay of Plenty

Cycling Trails

  • Cruise effortlessly along in a low gear as you soak up the ocean views from the Ōhope Harbourside Trail, Onepu Mountain Bike Park and Burma Road.
  • Bike along the Motu Trails through native forests and stop off for beach picnics along the way.
  • Ramp up the energy and adrenaline at the Oropi Grove MTB Park, where advanced riders can tackle grade 4-5 trails and test nerves of steel on jumps, ramps, berms and bumps.

Image: Tourism Bay of Plenty

Golf

  • Try and steer your gaze from the view of White Island (Whakaari) and back to the game at the Ōhope International Golf Club, one of the best courses in the country.
  • Every bit as challenging, rewarding and beautiful, the Whakatāne Golf Club has a must-do 18 holes for any golf lover.
  • If coastal views and mint-green fairways set your heart racing, get yourself over to the Omokoroa Golf Club.

Created in partnership with Tourism Bay of Plenty