There’s a lot to love about living in the Bay of Plenty. From Tauranga to Mt. Maunganui, Ōmokoroa and Waihī, the region is home to iconic beaches, geothermal wonders and over 300,000 lucky people.
Spanning over 12,000 km², this special region offers something for everyone. Its relaxed coastal lifestyle is enriched by a warm, welcoming community where locals support one another - a perfect setting for family-friendly living, or anyone seeking a connected, laid-back way of life. The region is known for some of New Zealand’s best outdoor experiences, and with so many great restaurants, schools and galleries to choose from, the indoors are pretty special too.
The Bay of Plenty also thrives economically, with key industries like agriculture, horticulture, tourism, and manufacturing providing diverse career paths for both school leavers and professionals. Tauranga, the region’s largest city, serves as the central business hub, driving growth and opportunity.
Then when it’s time to unwind, you’re spoiled for choice—whether it’s a leisurely round of golf, a hike through nature trails, or a visit to one of the stunning beaches that the Bay is famous for, loved by swimmers, kayakers, and surfers alike.
The Bay of Plenty lifestyle can sometimes feel as relaxing as a holiday - but, it doesn’t have to be all about lazy days.
The warm climate means thrill-seekers can dive into skydiving, dolphin swimming, surfing, or even river bugging. For those drawn to culture, the region offers plenty, with a deep connection to the land and its history.
Local events, markets, and community gatherings are at the heart of what makes this place feel like home. People are invariably drawn to the Bay for its perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, but it's the strong sense of community and the special moments that make them stay.
The amenities and facilities in the Bay of Plenty are comprehensive and convenient - serving to enhance the way you live each day.
The Bay of Plenty boasts a robust educational landscape, offering a diverse array of schools that support every stage of a child’s academic journey.
From kindergarten, through to primary and secondary, the region's institutions are recognised for their commitment to excellence, both in the classroom and beyond.
With a strong network of healthcare professionals and services, the Bay of Plenty ensures residents have access to quality care when needed. Tauranga Hospital is the main public hospital, offering a wide range of services including cardiology, oncology, and orthopaedics, ensuring advanced care is close to home. For specialised treatment, Waikato Hospital in Hamilton is also within reach.
In addition to the hospitals, the region has several medical centres and clinics providing general practice and specialist care, including dermatology, physiotherapy, and mental health services. Private healthcare providers are also available for those seeking elective surgeries and specialist consultations.
With good roads and convenient public transport, getting around the Bay of Plenty is easy and stress-free. The road networks are well-maintained, ensuring safe travel across the region. For those who prefer not to drive, Bayhopper buses provide reliable public transport through key areas, including Tauranga, Mount Maunganui, Ōmokoroa, and Waihī, making it easy to get around.
Tauranga, as the main hub, has frequent bus services connecting the city and surrounding suburbs. For longer trips, State Highway 2 links the region to Auckland, and Tauranga Airport offers regular domestic flights.
High adrenaline or high relaxation, you choose! Whether you like culture, cuisine, adventure or relaxation there’s so much to do, or not do, in the Bay of Plenty. It all depends on how you feel.
For those who crave adventure and fresh air, the outdoor activity options here are endless. The region is a magnet for nature lovers, with golden beaches perfect for surfing and swimming, and lush forests with trails that wind through native bush and lakes and rivers, ideal for kayaking or fishing. Thrill seekers can try their hand at skydiving or jet boating. Every day is a chance to explore and admire the beauty that surrounds you in a new and different way.
If retail therapy is what you’re after you can enjoy shopping for big-name brands at Bayfair Shopping Centre in Mount Maunganui or Tauranga Crossing, the Bay of Plenty’s newest shopping centre that’s also home to an EVENT Cinema complex. Or for something a little off the beaten path, try the Katikati night markets or the Little Big Markets in Mount Maunganui where you can browse artisanal goods and local arts and crafts. For those in favour of farm-to-plate eating, wander through the farmer’s markets in Waihī Beach, Tauranga, Katikati or Mount Maunganui.
The Bay of Plenty is known for its avocados, kiwifruit and honey, but when it comes to tasty treats, these are just the beginning. Trinity Wharf Tauranga, located over the harbour provides waterfront dining in a relaxed environment. Head to Flatwhite on Waihī Beach for delicious snacks and a view or chat with the locals at Sailor Galley & Rum Bar in Mount Maunganui, it’s enough to turn anyone into a fully-fledged foodie.
There’s always something happening in the Bay of Plenty. Summer comes alive with festivals including Bay Dreams in Tauranga with big-name music acts playing to lively crowds or visit the Waihī Beach summer fair for something with a local flavour.
When it comes to watching some of our best athletes or having a try yourself, there’s the Mount Maunganui half marathon or triathlon, the Tauranga City to Surf or Cricket’s Back! where you can meet some of your favourite Northern Brave players.
We are making waves through local sponsorships and involvement in community activities such as the Waihi Beach Autumn Market, the Bay of Plenty 5 Course Classic, and the Tauranga Home Show.
From beachfront to bushland, there’s a place for you.
Investing in Bay of Plenty real estate is a smart move. The region's growth and popularity make it an appealing option – but there’s also diversity to living here, from the peaceful coastal towns like Ōmokoroa or the historic rural community of Katikati, to the bustling metropolitan hub of Tauranga.
The property market in the Bay of Plenty has a lifestyle and pace to suit all tastes.
