Bay of Plenty
Bay of Plenty is a region on the North Island of New Zealand, centered around the large bay at the northeast end of the island. It is one of the most populous regions of New Zealand and includes the cities of Rotorua and Tauranga. Rotorua is a major tourist draw thanks to its unique hydrothermal features and adventurous spirit. The region has a beautiful coastline as well as inland lakes and rivers, making it a fine place in New Zealand to get outdoors.
Tracks in Bay of Plenty
This collection of walking tracks (hiking trails) in the Bay of Plenty Region of New Zealand is listed from north to south. The table may also be sorted alphabetically or by distance to help you pick your next outing. Each track links to its own report complete with photos, maps, directions, and all the other information needed to locate and enjoy these hikes.
Trail | Description | Distance | Location |
---|---|---|---|
90 | Mount Maunganui This trek combines picturesque tracks around the base and up to the summit of a peninsula-topping peak in the Bay of Plenty Region of New Zealand. | 3.4 - 7.3 km 20 - 230 meters | -37.63345, 176.1747 |
130 | Okere Falls Track This scenic walk through Okere Falls Scenic Reserve has views of multiple waterfalls, cascades, and pools on the Okere River near Rotorua. | 3 km 55 meters | -38.01424, 176.34396 |
135 | Blue Lake This circuit near Rotorua provides a pleasant loop across lakeside beaches and forests, rising to a lookout over Blue Lake and nearby Green Lake. | 6.15 km 40 meters | -38.1875, 176.332 |
138 | Waimangu Volcanic Valley This route descends through a landscape of spectacular geothermal features like Frying Pan Lake, the largest hot spring in the world, and can be paired with Lake Rotomahana Boat Cruise for a memorable geothermal experience in Rotorua. | 4.75 km 115 meters | -38.2857, 176.387 |
140 | Crater Lake This short walk in Rainbow Mountain Scenic Reserve goes to an overlook with views of a turquoise pool below vibrant cliffs. | 1 km 18 meters | -38.3154, 176.3759 |
142 | Kerosene Creek This short walk follows Kerosene Creek down to a hot pool below a crescent-shaped waterfall. Bring your bathing suit and wade into warm, welcoming waters. | 0.33 km 14 meters | -38.33425, 176.38613 |
145 | Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland This thermal area full of hot pools, geysers, fumaroles, and mud pots can be explored on three successive loops. | 1.35 - 3.05 km 20 meters | -38.35573, 176.3674 |
More outdoor fun in Bay of Plenty
You don’t need to hike to have a great experience.
Kaituna River Whitewater Rafting Take a memorable trip down the Kaituna River (Okere River) through Okere Falls Scenic Reserve that includes a thrilling plunge over Tutea Falls, the tallest commercially rafted waterfall in the world! | |
Lake Rotomoahana Boat Cruise Take a boat tour over the lake at the bottom of Waimangu Volcanic Valley, getting close to steaming vents and geysers right along the lakeshore for a unique on-the-water experience. The cruise is reachable by bus or a hike down Waimangu Volcanic Valley. |
Lodging in Bay of Plenty
There are good places to stay throughout the Bay of Plenty Region.
Murupara Motor Camp Set in a small town in the Bay of Plenty Region of New Zealand, this motor camp is half holiday park and half motor lodge, offering a variety of accommodations in a location that is both removed from busy tourist centers and close to lots of fun outdoor activities. | |
Papamoa Beach Resort This oceanfront holiday park offers scenic lodging and campsites on grass-covered dunes above a beautiful beach on the Bay of Plenty near Tauranga. | |
Rotorua Top 10 This holiday park has campsites, cabins, and motel accommodations in a fun setting near the center of Rotorua with amenities that include mineral hot pools. |
Or explore tracks in New Zealand on the Oceania Hike Finder Map