Waking up in time to hike Mount Maunganui’s iconic mountain, Mauao, to watch the sunrise is one of the best ways to start any day.
Early risers tend to greet you with fresh smiles and hearing the waves hit the shimmering sand below as the chirping tui’s wake makes this place unique. A few surfers make a splash when the tide is high during the early hours of the morning too.
Picking up a strong coffee after the hike and a big breakfast at one of the cafes on the waterfront will have you feeling refreshed and open-eyed in no time.
WHERE/WHAT IS IT? Mount Maunganui (otherwise known at ‘The Mt’), Tauranga.
Mount Maunganui is on top of a sand bar that connects it to the mainland which means there is a harbour beach and an ocean beach close to each other. It’s really the best of both worlds. If you don’t want to swim in the surf, you can go for a cruisy paddleboard or go sailing in the harbour.
WHY GO? The views, the hiking, the surf, bars, cafes and shopping.
It’s about a two and a half hour drive from Auckland. The drive offers some gorgeous views of Karangahape Gorge, or you can catch a 40 minute flight from Auckland Airport.
INSIDER TIP: Stay at the Calais Mt Resort if you can – it’s right at the base of Mauao and only a short walking distance to cafes and the beach. It’s inexpensive and the rooms are clean and cosy.
Hike up Mauao for sunrise or sunset – the views up the top are unforgettable. Take plenty of water though, it’s only about an hour and a half return trip but it can get quite hot and don’t forget to take a camera.
Check out the delicious food at the cafes along the waterfront for breakfast before hitting the surf, you can hire a board if you don’t have your own, or even pay for a lesson. The earlier you get breakfast, the better as tables fill up fast.
Walk around the harbour too, and explore the little walking trails around the beach. There are some cute food trucks along the way, so bring some cash for a snack or icecream.
ON THE WAY/NEAR BY: Stop off on the way and go to the Karangahake Gorge Historic Walkway. It’s about an hour and a half drive from Auckland and follows the old railway line between Paeroa and Waihi, giving access to impressive remains from the mining and railway eras.
HOW MUCH? It depends where you say but prices are reasonable. Take enough money to be able to enjoy the restaurants and cafes and enough for shopping.
BEST TIME TO GO: February, when the water is warmer and the crowds aren’t as hectic as in the summer holiday period.
