Now that summer is finally on it's way, we think it's a wonderful time of year to plan your summer holidays. Things are still a bit up in the air as far as international travel goes so here's a few of our top picks and tricks to plan an epic staycation; whether you're from Tauranga or you're coming here for a visit.
Learn To Dive or Book A Dive Trip
We're so lucky that we have the ocean on our doorstep and if you've always wanted to learn how to dive get in touch with the friendly professionals right there in Tauranga at the Dive Zone. They are an awesome bunch and you're in good hands with these guys and girls. It's such a buzz exploring the ocean blue getting up close and personal with our amazing sea life you'll definitely enjoy catching the diving buzz.
If you're already a diver, why not book a dive trip? The Bay of Plenty is a stunning area and possible destinations include Mayor Island, Okaparu Reef, The Taioma , Astrolabe Reef ( The wreck of The Rena), and Plate Island.
Whether you're from the Bay or the other Bay, anywhere in NZ and of course overseas visitors you'll be so thrilled you took a day out to visit our own blue backyard.
2. Thrill Seeker
Now if you're a local you're bound to have seen Nigel from V8 Trikes around town. You only have to look at his face with a huge smile that he absolutely loves taking people on a trip of a lifetime on his V8 Trike.
It's an absolute thrill and everyone we know raves about how cool it is so book a trip when you're in town and get the adrenalin going. It's a great way to tour the area and if you're feeling a bit born to be wild then this tour will get your motors running and out on the highway!
3. Cocktails in the Bay
If it's good enough to enjoy cocktails overseas it's definitely good enough to enjoy cocktails at home too. Miss Gees Bar & Restaurant is the place to go for a delicious cocktail, or perhaps a classic G & T or maybe an ice cold beer. Whatever your tipple hanging at Miss Gees is a great place to be and while you're at it; grab a bite to eat too.
You are always greeted with a big hello and a big grin at Miss Gees so you immediately feel so welcome. If you're from around these parts or you're not, you'll be a local within the first few minutes.
4. Visit A Dessert Bar
Who even knew dessert bars were a thing but they so are and Mount Maunganui has two of the best dessert bars around. Yo & Co on Princes Ave just off the Mount Main St serves everything from delicious ice creams; including mouth watering vegan ice-cream, freshly made pure frozen yoghurt, waffles, hot chocolate, sweet and savoury crepes and more.
Polar Dessert Bar is based on the Mount Main St and are purveyors of cold plate ice-cream, gelato and bubble waffles. You only have to ask how good it is around town and you'll be delightfully told "it's sweet as and so good!"
How about this for a review?
"First time being here and it won’t be the last. It was my cousins birthday and we showed up and they had just turned the waffle machines off…the owner kindly turned them back on just for us. Best waffles in town. The texture was soft and fresh and with a mixture of berries and ice cream and melted chocolate? Divine. Thank you!"
We'd love it if you told us what you'd suggest for a great staycation. There are so many great things to do in Tauranga so the more ideas for everyone the merrier.
We'll keep adding to the list!
Let us know on info@thingstodointauranga.co.nz and let's have some fun!
