population: 1.16 million
extension: 168.6 square kilometers
If you're interested in visiting museums while in Tauranga, I suggest checking out the Tauranga Art Gallery and the Classic Flyers Museum. Other nearby museums that you may enjoy include the New Zealand Maritime Museum in Auckland and the Waikato Museum in Hamilton.
Some of the most recommended, popular, and typical dishes to eat according to locals in Tauranga, New Zealand include:
1. Fish and chips: Freshly caught fish served with crispy golden fries is a Kiwi classic loved by many.
2. Pavlova: A meringue-based dessert topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit, pavlova is a beloved Kiwi dessert that originated in New Zealand.
3. Meat pies: These savory pies are filled with minced meat, gravy, and vegetables, and are a staple snack food in New Zealand.
4. Hangi: A traditional Māori dish, hangi involves slow-cooking meat and vegetables in an underground oven.
5. Kiwifruit: The kiwifruit, which is native to New Zealand, is a must-try when visiting Tauranga. You can enjoy this sweet and tangy fruit on its own or as part of a fruit salad.
6. Hokey Pokey Ice Cream: This creamy vanilla ice cream with crunchy bits of honeycomb toffee mixed in is a popular New Zealand treat.
7. Whitebait fritters: A classic New Zealand delicacy made from tiny translucent fish, the whitebait fritter is a simple yet delicious dish that is often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer.
8. Green-lipped mussels: These large, plump mussels are a seafood lover's dream and are often served steamed or in a rich tomato broth.
Some fun activities that locals enjoy in Tauranga include:
- Mount Maunganui Summit Track: a popular hiking trail with stunning views of the city and coastline.
- Pilot Bay Beach: a great place to relax, swim, and watch boats go by.
- The Elms | Te Papa Tauranga: a historic site with beautifully restored gardens and buildings that offer a glimpse into early European settlement in the area.
- Tauranga Farmers Market: a weekly market where you can pick up fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts.
- McLaren Falls Park: a scenic park with walking trails, picnic areas, a lake, waterfalls, and a variety of wildlife.