Tauranga grew up around its harbour. Founded as a mission settlement in the late 1830s and later a busy trading port, it is now one of New Zealand's fastest-growing cities, yet its compact centre still runs right down to the water. The Strand, the waterfront dining strip, traces the original shoreline where boats once unloaded their cargo.
Today The Strand is lined with restaurants, bars and cafes that spill out onto the harbour edge on warm evenings, making it the hub of the city's dining and nightlife. By day you will find boutique shopping, the Tauranga Art Gallery, a waterfront playground and an easy stroll along the harbour. On Saturday mornings the popular farmers market brings together the region's growers, bakers and coffee roasters.
The city centre is just a 10-minute, six-kilometre drive from Coastal Cottage, straight in from Matua, which makes it an easy choice for dinner out or a relaxed morning in town.
Highlights
The Strand
The city's dining strip, with waterfront restaurants and a buzzing atmosphere on summer evenings.
Saturday farmers market
Seasonal produce, fresh bread, coffee and local treats every Saturday morning.
Waterfront walk
Stroll the harbour edge and playground areas that connect the city to the water.
Boutique shopping
Independent shops and galleries make for an easy afternoon of browsing.
Tips for your visit
- Book ahead for dinner on The Strand during summer, it gets busy.
- The farmers market is a Saturday-morning institution, get there early for the best of it.
- Parking is easy off-peak and within a short walk of everything.
Getting there from the cottage
A quick 10-minute drive from Matua into the city centre.
Best time to visit
Saturday mornings for the market and summer evenings for The Strand.