Located 205kms southeast from Auckland, Tauranga - meaning "Sheltered Waters", is the largest residential and commercial area of the coastal Bay of Plenty.

With its fertile lands and pleasant climate making it the centre of a large kiwi fruit and cirus growing area. With pride is its colonial heritage with Gate Pa battle site and Otamataha Pa Military Cemetery and its scenic views including the McLaren and Omanawa Falls.

Tauranga Festival is held Febraury/March and the National Jazz Festival is held at Easter.

Tauranga has a quiet yet friendly gay and lesbian community.

Tauranga is served by major coach/bus services and Air New Zealand Link air services from Auckland, Wellington, Rotorua and Taupo.