Getting to the WBOP

Getting to the Western Bay of Plenty is a breeze, with convenient transport options that make reaching this stunning region of New Zealand easy and enjoyable. Whether you're arriving from nearby towns or further afield, there’s a travel option to suit your journey.

By Air
The nearest major airport is Tauranga Airport (TRG), which offers regular domestic flights from Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. From the airport, it’s a short drive to key destinations like Tauranga, Mount Maunganui, Te Puke, and Katikati. Rental cars, taxis, and shuttle services are readily available.

By Car
Driving is one of the most popular ways to reach the Western Bay of Plenty. The region is well connected via State Highway 2 and State Highway 29, making travel from cities like Auckland, Hamilton, and Rotorua straightforward. Enjoy scenic routes through lush countryside, rolling hills, and coastal views as you make your way here.

By Bus
National bus services such as InterCity offer reliable connections to Tauranga and surrounding towns from across the North Island. Buses arrive at central hubs, with local transport options available to help you explore the wider region.

By Ferry
If you’re travelling from the South Island, catch a ferry across the Cook Strait (via Interislander or Bluebridge) to Wellington. From there, you can travel by car or bus through the central North Island to reach the Western Bay of Plenty.

Tauranga, the largest city in the Western Bay of Plenty, is easily accessible from major cities in New Zealand. Here are approximate travel times from some of the country's main cities:

Auckland to Tauranga:
By Car: Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours (via State Highway 2 or State Highway 27/29).
By Air: Direct flights from Auckland Airport to Tauranga Airport take around 45 minutes.

Whakatāne to Tauranga:
By Car: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours (via State Highway 2).
By Bus: Bus services operate between Whakatāne and Tauranga, with travel times averaging around 2 hours.

Rotorua to Tauranga:
By Car: Approximately 1 to 1.5 hours (via State Highway 36).
By Bus: Bus services run between Rotorua and Tauranga, with travel times ranging from 1.5 to 2 hours.

Wellington to Tauranga:
By Car: Approximately 7 to 8 hours (via State Highway 1 and State Highway 29).
By Air: Direct flights are available from Wellington to Tauranga, with a flight time of around 1 hour.

Please note that these travel times are approximate and can vary depending on traffic conditions, weather, and the mode of transportation. It's always best to plan ahead and check for any service updates or delays.