The best things in life are free
No budget? No problem! Here are some fun, free things to do around the Bay this summer.
words KARL PUSCHMANN
Pāpāmoa Hills Cultural Heritage Regional Park
Affectionally known as ‘Pāp Hills’, the former Pa site has become a favourite for walkers and runners thanks to the various tracks it offers to the summit. While most people tackle the 45-minute walk to the top to bask in the stunning panoramic views, there are plenty of other tracks to explore in this 182-hectare park. With seven historic Pa sites to discover and a brand new walking track that has just opened, there are plenty of good reasons to head for the hills.
Ōmokoroa Playground
After its recent million-dollar facelift Ōmokoroa Playground has become a true destination. Sitting right on the beachfront its setting is spectacular, allowing you to sit and enjoy tremendous views of the harbour and back towards Tauranga while the kids make the most of its rejuvenated playground that includes things like mega-swings, a human-sized mouse wheel, climbing nets and even musical equipment, amongst many, many others. Like similar parks, there’s a BBQ facility, but if it’s a morning visit there are cafes nearby for those requiring much-needed coffee.
Kulim Park
Last month, Tauranga City Council held a public vote to find the public’s favourite play space. Sliding into victory was Ōtūmoetai’s Kulim Park. It was a well-earned result as it boasts plenty of attractions for the whole family. Kids love its boisterous playground, there’s a basketball court for older kids to shoot hoops and there’s a fantastic BBQ area for cooking up lunch or an early evening dinner. There are also walking and biking tracks to enjoy plenty of free parking. Factor in its pristine harbourside location and stunning views back to the Mount and you can see why it was a winner.
Pilot Bay
If you’re after something a little less hectic, check out Pilot Bay. This has become a family favourite as it’s less populated and the water on this side of the maunga is far calmer than its neighbour’s surf-friendly waves meaning you don’t have to worry about a rogue wave wiping out the kids. Add its picnic and BBQ areas, the same easy access to the two walks up or around the Mount itself, and a sensational view of the harbour, it’s an attractive choice for those with young kids.
Memorial Park
If you want to go big this summer, then you need to go to the Memorial Park playground. With two huge playgrounds for kids to explore they’re not going to get bored any time soon. There’s a rocket ship with not one, not two, but three slides shooting off it, a swing bridge, tunnels, and a climbing course along with the expected swings and roundabouts and a giant fountain they can splash about in if they get too hot. There’s so much to play on that you’ll want to bring your book as the kids will be occupied for hours. Along with a BBQ lunch, you’ll also want to pack the skateboards and scooters in case they want to drop into the skate park. This is one place where bringing a few bucks could be a good idea as there’s also mini golf and a mini train operating in summer.
Kaiate Falls
One of the most enjoyable bush walks in the Bay is the one-hour loop that takes in the two sensational waterfalls at Kaiate Falls, which is also known as Te Rerekawau Falls. The well-maintained track contains plenty of maps, pictures and descriptions that allow for appreciation and understanding of the environment. The first section of the walk takes in a ‘3-step’ waterfall, while the second leads you to a classic horsetail waterfall with a plunging 15m drop. The trail is best taken at a leisurely pace and is suitable for all ages. If you’re feeling peckish after the walk, there’s a picnic area to enjoy lunch surrounded by nature before the 30-minute drive back to the city.
