This is a complete guide to the Mount Maunganui Walk in New Zealand.
Located close to the city of Tauranga, the Mt Maunganui walk is one of the best free activities to do in the region.
This Mount Maunganui hike is relatively challenging but takes only 30 to 45 minutes to reach the top – you don’t need to be an expert hiker.
There are two paths to choose from including the Summit Walk and the Base Track, and we’ll go through all the details in this guide so you know exactly what to expect when you arrive.
MOUNT MAUNGANUI WALK: OVERVIEW
Let’s start this guide with the essential information you should know before taking the Mount Maunganui hike, from the location to the difficulty and more.
WHERE IS MOUNT MAUNGANUI?
Mount Maunganui is a coastal town in the Bay of Plenty region of New Zealand, famous for its beautiful beaches and the iconic Mount Maunganui itself.
It’s right by Tauranga, making it pretty easy to find. People come here for the surf, the sand, and to climb up the Mount for some awesome views.
HOW HIGH IS MOUNT MAUNGANUI?
Mount Maunganui is 232 meters (760 feet) above sea level. It’s not the tallest peak in North Island New Zealand, but climbing to the top for stunning panoramic views is well worth the effort.
HOW LONG DOES THE MOUNT MAUNGANUI WALK TAKE?
The walk to the top of Mount Maunganui usually takes about 30-45 minutes one way to complete for the average walker.
It all depends on how fast you walk and how many times you stop to take photos or catch your breath.
RELATED ARTICLE: NEW ZEALAND NORTH ISLAND ITINERARY
IS THE MOUNT MAUNGANUI HIKE BEGINNER-FRIENDLY?
While you need some level of fitness, the Mount Maunganui walk is pretty friendly for beginners.
The path is well-maintained and not too steep, making it a good option for people who aren’t used to hiking.
Just make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring your reusable bottle of water.
WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE MOUNT MAUNGANUI TRACK?
The Mount Maunganui Summit Track is a great activity that is free for all and it combines a bit of a workout with some seriously good views as the reward.
Begin the Mount Maunganui walk at this location near the beach, right next to Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park.
The path is well-marked and manageable for most, gradually taking you higher with every step.
Along the way, the scenery changes from the green brush to ocean views, keeping things fun and interesting. Once you reach the summit, you’ll have panoramic views over the Bay of Plenty that are hard to beat.
Remember to wear sun protection and bring your camera gear because you’ll want to capture the beautiful scenes along the Mount Maunganui walk.
BEST TIME TO WALK MOUNT MAUNGANUI
The best time to complete the Mount Maunganui hike is at either sunrise or sunset, as you’ll get not only incredible views but catch the golden hour too.
In saying that, the Mount Maunganui walk can be done at any time of day as it’s open 24 hours. So hiking Mount Maunganui during the day is doable if you’re not a morning or evening person.
Heading up before sunrise, you get the chill, quiet moments before the day starts. It’s peaceful, with fewer people around, and it’s just a nicer trip to take before it gets too hot.
On the other hand, a sunset hike has its own charm. The temperature starts to drop, making the walk more pleasant. You’ll see the sky change colors, from bright blues to soft oranges and pinks.
It’s a perfect way to end the day with the added bonus of watching the town and surrounding area lighten up for the night.
RELATED ARTICLE: NEW ZEALAND SOUTH ISLAND ITINERARY
ALTERNATIVE MT MAUNGANUI HIKE
MOUNT MAUNGANUI BASE TRACK
The Mount Maunganui base track is a great alternative for those not up for the Mount Maunganui summit challenge but still want to enjoy beautiful views.
The loop track is about 2.3 km long and is a gentle, flat path that covers the mountain’s base, and it starts at this location.
With well-maintained trails, this walk is great for everyone and is ideal for families.
It goes all around the coastline and you’ll have views over the wharf and port side of Mauao, a different perspective compared to the Mount Maunganui track to the summit.
WHERE TO STAY IN MOUNT MAUNGANUI
The most popular spot in Mount Maunganui is undoubtedly Maunganui Beach, a long stretch of white sand that’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby where you can grab a bite to eat and drink after a day in the sun.
That said, let me tell you the best areas to stay near Mount Maunganui.
BEST HOTELS IN MOUNT MAUNGANUI
Mount Maunganui has several hotels to choose from, so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay during your visit.
Below you’ll find properties suitable for luxury travelers, budget backpackers, and everyone in between.
LUXURY: CAPRI ON PILOT BAY
MID RANGE: GATEWAY MOTOR INN
BUDGET: MOUNT BACKPACKERS
CAMPERVAN PARKS IN MOUNT MAUNGANUI
There are two campervan parks located right by the beach near the Mount Maunganui walk, however, spaces are limited so it’s best to book well in advance.
WHAT TO PACK FOR NEW ZEALAND
When visiting New Zealand, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you:
Must-Have Travel Essentials
Hidden Money Wallet
Keep your cash and other valuables safe with this anti-theft hidden money wallet!
Reusable Water Bottle
The GRAYL GeoPress is the best reusable bottle that allows you to purify water from anywhere!
Travel Backpack
The Nomatic Travel Backpack has 20+ innovative features, perfect for everyday use!
Quick-Dry Travel Towel
The most compact, lightweight, and quick-dry towel for traveling!
Portable PowerBank
Keep your phone, laptop, and accessories charged while you’re on the go with the Anker PowerBank!
More New Zealand Travel Guides
Click the button below to view all articles related to New Zealand!
FINAL THOUGHTS – MOUNT MAUNGANUI TRACK
I hope this guide gives you all the information you need for an epic adventure to the Mount Maunganui summit.
If you have any questions about the Mount Maunganui walk, please leave a comment at the bottom of this post and I will get back to you as soon as I can.
For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.
TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!
Search and book accommodation worldwide.
Compare and book cheap flights to anywhere.
Find tickets, tours, and experiences around the world.
Book buses, trains, and transfers online in advance.
Search all rental cars in your next destination.
Need travel insurance for your next trip?
THANKS FOR READING
Hey friend, thanks for reading this guide!
Please know this post may contain affiliate links. When making a purchase through one of my links, I earn a small kickback at no extra cost to you and it’s a big help to keep the site up and running. Rest assured, I only promote products and services that I personally use and recommend.
Click here to find out how you can support the site organically.
Many thanks!