Discovery Campervans New Zealand

The Plentiful Bay Of Plenty

The Bay of Plenty is nestled on the east coast of New Zealand's North Island and is one of the country's top holiday destinations for Kiwis. The Bay of Plenty takes up the entire coastline from Lottin Point in the east, to Waihi Beach in the west. It is also located just east of the Kaimai-Mamaku Ranges and due south of the Coromandel Peninsula. These surrounds are what gives the Bay its stunning, picturesque beauty, drawing in visitors from all parts of the world, all year round.

The Bay of Plenty is the perfect place for campervan hire New Zealand for many reasons. As the Bay is home to many commercial centres, spread across the coastline, it is really essential that you have your own vehicle when visiting. With so many stunning seaside townships, each offering something unique and wonderful, you may just want to stay somewhere different every night. Your campervan will allow you to do this with ease, which in turn, will permit you to experience all the wonder and beauty that this region has to offer.

Home to beautiful harbours, long white sandy beaches, friendly people and an easy-gong lifestyle, the Bay of Plenty offers something for all. It is the perfect place to immerse yourself in a bit of adventure, accustom yourself to beachfront living and indulge yourself in relaxation and rejuvenation. While staying in the Bay of Plenty, there are several townships you simply cannot go past, including Tauranga, Mount Maunganui, Papamoa and Te Puke.

Tauranga is the main coastal centre of the region and is one of the fastest growing cities in the country. It is located at the entrance to one of the largest natural harbours in New Zealand and enjoys the looming Mount Maunganui as a pleasant backdrop. It is also home to the country's largest export port, the Port of Tauranga. Tauranga is the perfect place to visit if you want to catch up one some much needed shopping, chill out in one of the funky cafes or simply relax under and umbrella, with a good book, on one of the white sand beaches. As the main centre for the region, this truly is the highlight of the Bay of Plenty and a place that will please you beyond your wildest expectations.

Mount Maunganui is the most prominent landmark of the region and is also home to a friendly community that will welcome you with open arms. Mount Maunganui is known for its top beaches and coastal lifestyle and truly is the physical focal point of the Bay of Plenty. While visiting you simply have to put on your walking shoes and climb the mountain. You will be rewarded with stunning views at the top and a sight that you really must take the camera for. Upon reaching the base of the mountain, its time for a refreshing swim on one of the numerous beaches and a stroll along the main street where you will find a buzzing hotspot of boutique shopping and top restaurants and cafes.

If you are seeking diversity in the activities you take part in, then a visit to Papamoa is in order. Located just down the road from Mount Maunganui, this area features am atmosphere of laid back relaxation and serenity. The coast here stretches out to the sky and is bordered by wild, protected dunes. Here you will find deserted beaches, which will allow you to explore these amazing areas without the hassles of crowds.

The Bay of Plenty is also home to the Kiwifruit Capital of the World, Te Puke. This truly is the heart of the country's kiwi fruit industry and is therefore surrounded by orchards and pack houses. Apart from the prominent feel of this industry, Te Puke is the perfect place to stretch your legs for a bit of bush walking and exploration of natural parkland. There are also a great variety of shops and cafes, adding a certain cosmopolitan feel to the area.

While staying in the Bay of Plenty you have so many options to choose from when it comes to accommodation. There are seaside caravan parks in each area of the region, which basically means that you have to decide on your favourite beach and then park your campervan right in front of it. All of the caravan parks offer facilities to meet the needs of your campervan, so all you have to do is sit back, relax and enjoy the views.

The Bay of Plenty truly is the seaside highlight of the North Island and its no wonder this is the place the locals flock to for a holiday. The stunning beaches, picturesque backdrop and never ending coastal landscape are sure to put your mind at ease and make you never what to leave!

Christine Barton