Mount Maunganui

Mount Maunganui is a town located on a peninsula to the north of Tauranga on New Zealand's North Island. It is also the name of the extinct volcanic cone which rises above the town (which is now officially known by its Maori name Mauao). It is colloquially known in New Zealand simply as The Mount. The town itself is located on top of a sand bar that connects Mauao to the mainland, a geographical formation known as a tombolo. Because of this formation, the residents of Mount Maunganui are lucky enough to have both a harbour beach (Pilot Bay) and an ocean beach to take advantage of, within a short distance (At the base of Mauao, the distance between the harbour and ocean side is a couple of blocks).

The town of Mount Maunganui is a coastal resort with some apartment blocks, and a major port is located on the western (harbour) side. It is also well-known for the quality of its surfing conditions, though parts of the beach are notoriously dangerous. It is regarded by many as a northern suburb of the rapidly growing city of Tauranga, which just to the south. A harbour bridge was opened in 1988 bringing the two communities even closer together.

The conical headland which gives the town its name is 230 metres in height, and dominates the mostly flat surrounding countryside. It was formerly a Maori pa, and the remains of trenches can be seen in the ridges, as well as ancient shell middens. Today, it is open to the public year round, and is a popular place to either walk around, or climb up. From the summit, a good stretch of coastline can be seen in either direction, as well as the Kaimai Ranges to the west.

The Mount is a firm favourite with holiday makers and others wishing to retire. It has many activities and its hot salt water pools at the end of Pilot Bay provides an excellent opportunity to unwind and relax before travelling further afield.

Currently, New Zealand's first artificial reef is being installed at the Mount. According to MountReef.co.nz the programme aims to provide a consistent, year round surfing spot at the Mount beach.

Every year the Mount beach hosts the National Surf Championships, and other events like the NZ Under 14 Ocean Athlete Championships and the Pro Volleyball Tour.

Population (2001 census): 30,387.

Panorama of Mount Maunganui and the Main Beach

See also

Mount Maunganui College

External links

*Mount Maunganui