Bay of Plenty Transport

Transport options in Bay of Plenty

Some travellers arrive by air, landing at Tauranga airport, but most arrive by the Pacific Coast Highway. This fabulous touring route traces the east coast of the North Island from Auckland all the way to Napier. Self-drive is the easiest way to explore the Bay of Plenty, but you'll find plenty of other transport options if you'd rather someone else did the driving.

Getting to and from the Bay of Plenty

By Air:
The cities of Tauranga and Whakatane are served by Air New Zealand domestic flights. You'll find it easy to connect with other major destinations around New Zealand.
Tauranga's recently revamped airport is one of the busiest provincial airports in the country. Each week it sees more than 164 scheduled arrivals and departures. Whakatane Airport receives five direct flights from Auckland every day.

By Road:
The signposted touring route known as the Pacific Coast Highway links Auckland to the Bay of Plenty, then continues on to the Hawke's Bay. With a rental car or campervan, it's a very enjoyable way to find and explore the region.
Newmans and Intercity bus services arrive at Tauranga, Mount Maunganui and Whakatane from other North Island destinations.

Getting around the Bay of Plenty

If you're not planning to drive, local coach and shuttle companies can move you around the bay. They include Bayline Coaches, Bethlehem Coachlines, Coastline Shuttles, Call-a-Bus and Luxury Airport Shuttles. The Visitor Information Centre has contact details, schedules and takes all bookings.
Reputable tour operators can create customized itineraries linked to your interests. Wine, Lord of the Rings sites and waterfalls are a few possible themes.