For the Children For children, there is a large grassed outside area and we have a selection of outside games available, including swing ball. We also have BBQs set in the gardens with seating and a gazebo. Each of our one bedroom units have a backdoor opening onto a grassed private courtyard area with outdoor furniture (see the picture above). Family things to do in the local area (see flyers in reception):
'Dialed in' Trampoline Park
Glow Worm Kayak Tour
Waimarino Adventure Park
Walks Your choices are endless (see the extensive guide below), depending on your fitness.
Within 2-4 km... You can walk round the bottom of the Mount, or make the short climb to the summit, where you will be rewarded with stunning views over the whole of Mt Maunganui,make sure you take your camera with you! Why not finish off and relax and recharge at the Salt Water Hot Pools at the base of the Mount. The Farmers market held every Sunday morning from 9am to 1pm in the Phoenix car park (right in the middle of the main street of Downtown the Mount) is well worth a visit with many local goods and produce available. The beach is 5 min walk away with surfing, wind surfing, swimming, sunbathing and fishing. At Tay Street Beach there are public BBQs. A bit further afield...
The Papamoa Hills are a short drive or if you are wanting a full bush walk nothing beats the Otanewainuku walking tracks. A hidden gem is Te Puna Quarry Park, with walking tracks, panoramic views, and a selection of gardens. It is situated 14km north of Tauranga, just off state highway 2. Entrance is free or by gold coin donation (as all work is done by volunteers).
Retail therapy For keen shoppers, there is the 'Mall' retail experience at Bayfair, which has all the major shopping outlets under one roof. Or for those looking for a more unique experience take a short drive to Mount Mainstreet (just 2kms) where you will find local shoe, clothing and visual arts designers, a wide range of kiwiana crafts, and several souvenir shops. If you don’t want to drive, then leave your car at the motel. There is a bus stop right outside the motel, which will take you to the Tauranga CBD, the Mount, Bayfair and Papamoa.
Sports For sports enthusiasts, there is a golf course, along with mini-golf for the less serious. For keen bowlers, there are a couple of clubs – both with extensive facilities and club houses. Indoor swimming can be enjoyed by all the family at Baywave, which has the largest wave pool in New Zealand. It also has a spa, sauna, and café on the premises.
Events Centre Baypark is 5-minutes away by car, it plays host to speedway and the Bay Steamers rugby team. A huge range of sports events are held inside, at the TECT Arena –including basketball, netball, volleyball and much more. Many concerts, shows and exhibitions are held at this great facility, such as the Home Show and the NZ Craft Show.
Restaurants If you are looking for a special dining experience, there are many restaurants offering Thai, Chinese, Indian, Italian, Japanese and European cuisine. For a more casual eating experience, there are major fast-food outlets nearby, including McDonalds, KFC, Pizza Hut and many more. If you want to stay within walking distance of the motel, we also have the RSA nearby (ask us for details). Chinese/fish and chip takeaway, also a fabulous Thai Restaurant that does eat in or takeaway.
Airport The airport is only 5 mins from the Motel, on Jean Baton Drive. We offer a FREE Shuttle service to and from the airport for guests staying at the Bluehaven. For a really special experience, why not try Classic Flyers, at the Airport (free Parking at Classic Flyers). Experience the thrill of flying in a classic plane, then take a look though the Aircraft Museum and finish off by having a relaxing coffee in the AVAGAS CAFE at classic flyers.