Things to Do in Tauranga with Kids — 2026 Family Guide

Mount Maunganui Beach — The Best Reason to Come

Mount Maunganui's main beach (simply called 'the beach' by locals) is 5km of white sand with the volcanic cone of Mauao rising at its northern end. Ocean beach with lifeguard patrol in summer. Calm enough for paddling near the north end; surf-able for learners further south. The beachfront is flat, pram-friendly, and has excellent café infrastructure. Free to access.

Mauao Base Track and Summit Walk

The base track around Mauao (Mount Maunganui) is an easy 3.4km loop with harbour and ocean views — flat enough for confident walkers aged 4+ and good for family prams. The summit track branches off and is steeper — a 1.5-hour return for kids 7+. Both tracks are free and start from the car park at the northern tip of the Mount.

Mount Hot Pools — Post-Beach Family Treat

The Mount Hot Pools are heated saltwater pools 200 metres from the beach. Indoor and outdoor options; the outdoor pools are family-friendly. Adults ~$20, children ~$10. A great evening option after a beach day, especially in the cooler months. Book ahead during school holidays.

McLaren Falls Park — Free Nature Escape

A 25-minute drive from Tauranga, McLaren Falls Park is 170 hectares of parkland with waterfalls, a lake, native bush walks, and a glowworm dell (after dark — bring a torch and go after 8pm in summer). Free entry. Good for 2–3 hours. The picnic areas are excellent; bring lunch. The short waterfall walk (10 minutes return) suits all ages.

Papamoa Beach — Quieter Alternative for Young Children

Papamoa Beach runs 22km from the Mount south — one of the longest beaches in NZ. Quieter than the Mount, with gentler surf in the sheltered sections. Papamoa Plaza mall nearby for rain cover. Good if you want beach without crowds.

Rotorua (60 Minutes Southwest) — Geothermal Capital

Rotorua is Tauranga's natural day-trip partner. The mud pools, geysers, Māori culture, and Polynesian Spa are all easily reached in an hour. For families: Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland (the best visual geothermal park in NZ — the Champagne Pool alone justifies the visit), Polynesian Spa (family pools, kids love the hot mineral water), and Skyline Rotorua (gondola + luges — universally loved by kids 4+). See the Rotorua with kids guide for full detail.

Waihi Beach and Athenree Hot Springs (1 Hour North)

Waihi Beach is quieter than the Mount and has a legendary left-hand surf break at its northern end. Athenree Hot Springs (between Tauranga and Waihi) is an outdoor thermal pools and camping complex — a relaxed afternoon alternative to the Mount Hot Pools. Good for young families who want a scenic drive with a swim payoff.