KEY POINTS:
Where: Tauranga is 200km south-east of Auckland; a two-hour drive or a 35-minute flight from Auckland and a 75-minute flight from Wellington.
What to do: Although Tauranga and its neighbours along the coastal Bay of Plenty draw mobs of visitors in summer, the mild climate and wealth of attractions make the region an ideal mid-winter getaway.
For a start, there are plenty of hot-pool stops to make along the coast, including Omokoroa and Athenree, but the most famous are the Mt Maunganui hot salt-water pools. The toddlers' pool, slide and waterfalls make it a great place to keep the kids entertained.
If it's just the two of you and you're in need of pampering, try Aqua Vida. Just 15 minutes from Tauranga, this gorgeous spa seems a world away from civilisation.
If you're looking for something different, take the family out to Blokart Heaven, Papamoa. Casual rates start at $15 for 15 minutes and $50 for an hour.
Once you've blown the cobwebs out, relax with a glass of wine. Mills Reef, just north of Tauranga and Morton Estate at Katikati are two of the most successful wineries in the Bay of Plenty.
If you're wanting to get in touch with nature, try McLaren Falls Park, just 20 minutes inland from Tauranga. Do a trip with Waimarino Kayak Tours into the park's glow-worm canyon, or try the impressive Aerius Helicopters package, which flies you to the park, where you kayak to the canyon and end the day with a tantalising and delicious gourmet meal.
What's on:
Sep 7-12: Te Puke Kiwifruit Festival
Sep 28: City 2 Surf Half-marathon
Oct 28-November 4: Blokart World Championships
Nov 8: Kart Street Race
Link: www.bayofplentynz.com
- Detours, HoS
