July 2022 - Tasman Holiday Parks

Why Now is the Right Time for a NSW Holiday

by tasmanholidayparks

Lord knows this pandemic has been tough on families. Parents have had to perform juggling acts with careers, housework, homeschooling, and family during a time of uncertainty, lockdowns and isolation. Canceling holiday plans, special events and other fun activities has been the norm which is disapointing to say the least.

Finally, we’re recognised as the patient saints that we are with a reward by the NSW government. They’re paying NSW families to explore our wonderful state and all it’s glory.

Say what?

As part of the Stay NSW program, The NSW government are offering five $50 vouchers to spend on accommodation, entertainment and recreational activities in New South Wales. That’s a total saving of $250 on your next holiday – how good’s that!

If you don’t have kids don’t worry, you aren’t missing out. You’ll receive a $50 Stay NSW Holiday voucher to use at participating accommodation providers.

More good news – Tasman Holiday Parks is a participating accommodation provider. You can redeem your Stay NSW Holiday vouchers with us on your next holiday. So where can you stay in NSW with Tasman Holiday Parks? We have listed all our destinations in NSW below.

Let our timeless destinations inspire you for your next getaway. Exciting tourist destinations and hidden gems – NSW has it all!

Caravan Parks NSW

Lake Mulwala

Just one hour west of Albury, you will find the picturesque Lake Mulwala. Lined with ghostly red river gums situated north of the Murray River, this water lover’s playground has plenty for the family to enjoy.

Get active with swimming, water sports, fishing, boating, or hiking. If taking it easy is more your style, venture out to explore the region’s history, food and wine, clubs, and entertainment or cruise along the Murray River on a paddle steamer.

Holiday on the shores of picturesque Lake Mulwala

There are also plenty of amenities to keep the kids happy including an all-abilities playground, swimming pool, tennis court, jumping pillow, and basketball ring. You can also hire kayaks, pedal carts, paddleboards and for those cold nights, get cozy around the fire with fire drum hire – perfect for roasting marshmallows and sharing campfire stories.

Stay in one of our spacious and modern villas or cabins overlooking the lake. We also have powered sites to set up camp or park your caravan.

Merool on the Murray

For absolute waterfront accommodation on the Murray River look no further than Merool on the Murray. Travel to Echuca Moama to spend quality family time amongst nature, learn more about our Australian culture and history, or get adventurous with a vast selection of thrilling watersports. (link to watersport blog)

If you prefer to chill out, there’s no better place to laze around than our stunning lagoon-style pool. This solar heated pool is the perfect place to splash about or relax on a lounge chair under a palm tree. There is also a games room, playground, two jumping pillows, giant chess and more.

This Murray River caravan park has first-class accommodation options including our quaint Pioneer Themed Holiday Cabin Village built to complement the original 1850s homestead. With friendly staff, excellent customer service and a relaxing environment, you’ll be happy you visited.

Moama on the Murray

For another little gem on the Murray River stay at Tasman Holiday Parks – Moama on the Murray. Set on the banks of the Murray, this bushland paradise is the perfect place to feel life slow down as you relax amongst 34 hectares of bush.

Enjoy life on the river with two and a half kilometres of river frontage where you can swim, canoe, paddleboard, waterski, and fish – the choice is yours. There are also great amenities on-site the whole family will love including mini golf, ninja course, pump track, swimming pool, playhouse, water park, pedal carts, Grand Prix scooter track, basketball court, soccer nets and more. There’s no need to get the car out because everything you need is right here.

Relax in an attractive self-contained villa in a secluded bush haven. Still not convinced? Here are seven reasons you should visit the Murray River.

Relax on the banks of the Murray River

Nambucca Heads

For a holiday that will make you feel like you’re stepping back to a simpler time, visit the peaceful coastal town of Nambucca Heads. Just five hours north of Sydney, Nambucca Heads is the ideal place to unwind for some well-deserved holiday time.

Explore waterfalls, historic villages, markets, bike trails, walking tracks, beautiful beaches and world-heritage listed rainforests. Embrace the beach lifestyle and catch a wave or two, throw a line in for some fishing, take a splash in the pool and waterslide, and make friendships that will last a lifetime.

We have accommodation options from elevated surf shacks, beach and poolside huts, cute bathing boxes, family villas, and campsites. We even have pet-friendly options so the family pooch doesn’t miss out.

Racecourse Beach

Racecourse Beach is situated on the beautiful and underrated south coast of New South Wales. Just a three-hour drive from Sydney, you’ll be sitting back enjoying a beachside bevy in no time.

The kids will love it here with a great range of activities from surfing, snorkelling, boating, fishing, swimming, hiking and more. Not to mention the amazing facilities on-site including kids’ activity centre, adventure playground, swimming pool, jumping pillow and tennis and basketball courts.

From Beachfront Villas to Bunkhouse Cabins and campsites, it’s the perfect place to relax whilst visiting the stunning South Coast.

Myola

To experience a holiday with pristine beaches and stunning bushland, visit Myola in Jervis Bay. Well known for its white sandy beaches and turquoise blue waters, you will find complete serenity only a three-hour drive from Sydney.

The tranquil beaches here are perfect for swimming, paddle boarding, snorkelling, diving, kayaking, whale and dolphin watching, and more. There are plenty of nature walks, cycling tracks, restaurants, cafes, and wineries just waiting to be explored.
Enjoy all the comforts of home with a range of refurbished cabins, poolside villas and powered and unpowered campsites for caravans or tents. With plenty of amenities including a swimming pool, tennis court and playground – the kids will be happy to explore the park making friends along the way.

Book your stay in NSW today

The hardest part now is choosing where to go. If you need more inspiration, check out our holiday guides.

Know exactly where you’re going? What are you waiting for, start booking your next holiday!

For more information on Stay NSW Vouchers visit https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/stay-nsw/terms-and-conditions-business.

Top Seven Holiday Parks for Mature Travellers

by tasmanholidayparks

Many retirees enjoy nothing more than hitting the great open road and exploring all that Australia has to offer. It’s a great way to travel offering you the freedom to go wherever you like with your little home on wheels. It’s also a cost-effective way of travelling. The only problem is deciding where to go. Let us make it a little easier for you with our top seven choices for the perfect caravan park for mature travellers.

Caravan Parks QLD

Tasman Holiday Parks – Rollingstone

Rollingstone is a 40-minute drive north of Townsville. Set on 32 acres of pure paradise and absolute beach frontage, is the perfect grey nomads’ caravan park. Our large grassy powered sites are right on the beach, perfect to park your caravan or motorhome and wake to the sounds of the ocean. We also have unpowered sites and sites on the lake that are big enough for a 22ft caravan. Enjoy fantastic beach fishing or try your luck in our catch and release lakes stocked with giant barramundi. We have you covered with fantastic facilities including a coin laundry, easy access bathroom, sewage dump points, a camp kitchen and more. Spend your days relaxing by the resort-style pool, playing golf on a scenic course, or visiting the surrounding beaches or restaurants.

Sit back and relax in Tropical Queensland.

Tasman Holiday Parks – Airlie Beach

Set on Airlie Beach in tropical north Queensland, our caravan park is the perfect place to explore the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef. We have powered and un-powered sites on beautiful, landscaped gardens set amongst tall palm trees, with the choice of a private bathroom. Enjoy convenient facilities including a BBQ area, camp kitchen, two coin laundries, and more. Relax by the resort-style pool, play a game of tennis, or venture out to explore the reef, surrounding islands and tropical coastline. There is so much beauty here to sit back and do as little or as much as you like.

Caravan Parks NSW

Tasman Holiday Parks – Nambucca Heads

Situated between Brisbane and Sydney, is the laid-back coastal town of Nambucca Heads. Our premium sites are perfect for larger caravans up to 13 metres and our Garden Sites for smaller caravans. We also have sites with private ensuites. You’ll have everything you need right at your fingertips with camp kitchens and BBQ areas, laundry facilities, amenity blocks and more. Lay around the heated pool, enjoy a game of table tennis, or explore the local area and its pristine beaches, historic sites, stunning waterfalls and more. It’s the perfect coastal playground for a mature traveller’s holiday.

Tasman Holiday Parks – Ballina

Enjoy the laid-back coastal life of northern NSW in the beautiful Ballina. Our caravan sites are set amongst green grass and beautiful gardens. We have powered sites with concrete slabs suitable for all lengths of caravans, motorhomes or fifth wheelers, and some camper trailers. All sites are close to our modern, clean amenities block and coin-operated laundry. Soak in the heated spa and swimming pool, or venture out to beautiful nearby beaches, winding trails, and a spectacular river.

Caravan Parks VIC

Tasman Holiday Parks – Geelong

An hour north of Melbourne, set amongst beautiful gum trees near the banks of the Barwon River, our park is perfect for a grey nomad’s getaway. Park your motorhome or caravan amongst beautiful deciduous trees with the choice of a site with or without a private bathroom. Our sites are powered with concrete slab sites, sullage and water. All park amenities are conveniently located nearby and include BBQ facilities, picnic tables, coin laundry, camp kitchen and more. Enjoy beautiful beaches, the Barwon River, easy coastal walks, fantastic fishing or indulge in the local foodie delights.

Caravan Parks TAS

Tasman Holiday Parks – St Helens

St Helens is a vibrant little town on the northeast coast of Tassie. This caravan park hugs the waterfront so you can enjoy sensational views every day. We have powered grassy sites with the option of a private bathroom. There is a fantastic range of facilities here including a scenic BBQ area, camp kitchen with TV and heater, laundry, onsite restaurant and more. Enjoy local wineries, pristine beaches and bays, historic attractions, and the incredible Bay of Fires only a short distance away.

Caravan Parks WA

Tasman Holiday Parks -Yallingup Beach

Enjoy all that southwest Australia has to offer in Yallingup Beach. Sit back and watch the western sunset on the Indian Ocean before being lulled to sleep by the sounds of the ocean. You’ll discover grassy green pockets nestled among ancient banksia trees, perfect for parking the van. Our sites have power and water with nearby facilities including a coin laundry, free Wi-Fi, sewage dump point, scenic BBQ area, and a fully equipped camp kitchen. Spend your time enjoying pristine beaches, rugged coastline, walking trails, national parks, whale watching, unique wildlife, fishing, heritage sites, gourmet food and wine, and more.

Enjoy a stay at a Tasman Holiday Park

Book your stay at one of Tasman Holiday Park’s timeless locations where you can find the freedom to relax.

Six Tips for Choosing the Right Holiday Park for You

by tasmanholidayparks

Choosing the right holiday park for you can be a little daunting. There are so many to choose from it’s hard to tell which one is right for you. When planning your next trip, consider these six factors when selecting your holiday or caravan park. That way, you can spend more time planning your activities rather than worrying about where to stay.

Work out a budget

First things first, you need to set yourself a budget and stick to it. Holiday parks vary in cost depending on a range of things. Where it’s located, what facilities are available, the quality of accommodation and the time of year you travel will all be contributing factors to cost. If you really want that beachfront caravan park but it’s a little out of your price range, consider travelling in their low season to enjoy the same holiday park at a cheaper cost.

It’s all about location

Work out what factors are important to you in terms of location. Do you want to be within walking distance or a stone’s throw from all the main attractions? Or would you prefer peace and quiet a little out of town?

Read reviews

A great way to find out more about a caravan park is by reading their ratings and reviews on Google or TripAdvisor. Hearing it straight from people who have stayed there before is a great way to decide if it’s going to be right for you. Be sure to read a few reviews because while one traveller may have had a bad time due to unfortunate circumstances, several others may have loved and recommend it.

Do you have special needs?

For those travelling with a mobility impairment or special needs, it’s important to do your research to make sure the holiday park is easily assessable for you. Some Tasman Holiday Parks are equipped with ramps, accessible bathrooms, and other accessible facilities to help you feel safe, relaxed, and welcomed.

What facilities are available

Work out what facilities are important to you and make sure the holiday park has them. If you’re travelling with kids, you want to make sure there is plenty of entertainment for them. Our caravan parks have a range of fun facilities depending on where you stay. These include swimming pools, water slides, jumping pillows, playgrounds, kid’s activity clubs, games rooms, pedal cars and more. If you are camping and don’t have a camp kitchen, bathroom and laundry, a holiday park with these facilities is a must. Many of our holiday parks are equipped with safe and clean amenities to make you feel at home.

Can you bring the family pooch?

If you’re planning on bringing the family dog on your holiday, make sure it’s a pet-friendly holiday park. Tasman Holiday Parks have a range of locations across New South Wales, Queensland, and Western Australia that will get your four-legged friend’s tail wagging. Make sure you call ahead because some holiday parks have certain restrictions depending on what type of accommodation you choose or what time of year you travel.

Bring your pooch along on holidays!

Tasman Holiday Parks

With over 24 holiday parks across Australia and New Zealand, Tasman Holiday Parks allows you to relax with those you love in truly inspirational locations. Every Tasman Holiday Park is secure, meticulously clean and designed to offer timeless holiday experiences in places of vibrant natural beauty. All guests enjoy access to premium facilities and support, all holiday long – guaranteed.

Book your stay at one of our holiday parks today.

Surf and Snow – Combine a Beachside Stay with your Snow Holiday NSW

by tasmanholidayparks

Winter is here and Aussie families on the east coast are gearing up for another season on the slopes. It’s a holiday jam-packed full of adrenaline, stacks, tricks and loads of fun. It’s far from your relaxing beachside holiday. But why not combine the two? After your snow holiday in NSW, stop off on the South Coast for a little R&R. Your tired body will thank you.

Racecourse Beach

After some serious downhill action on the ski fields, stop in at Racecourse Beach on your way home. Racecourse Beach is on the outskirts of Bawley Point, about a four-hour drive from Jindabyne and about four-hour drive south of Sydney. Racecourse Beach offers the perfect setting for a little relaxation with beautiful scenic beaches and bushland, cosy and romantic wineries and restaurants, and perfect surfing conditions.

Things to do in Racecourse Beach

Surrounded by beautiful national parks, there are plenty of walking tracks perfect for some recovery exercise. Taking a walk when your muscles are sore from all that skiing or snowboarding will help stretch out the muscles and increase blood flow helping you recover quicker.

You could also spend your time enjoying the beautiful beaches doing as little or as much as you like. The ocean temperature on the south coast stays at a warm 18 degrees year-round. For the keen surfer, the swell tends to be better during winter and has fewer crowds and more friendly dolphins. For those that have had enough action, enjoy a picnic on the sand whilst looking out to sea. You may even catch a glimpse of a humpback whale on its migration journey.

There are also plenty of places to dine and nourish your body. Check out our guide to eating like a local on the South Coast.

Where to stay at Racecourse Beach

The best Bawley Point accommodation is the Tasman Holiday Parks – Racecourse Beach. Offering a wide range of modern self-contained accommodation, caravan, and camping options – you will find something to suit all travel styles and budgets. It is conveniently located to eat, play, and stay in comfort. Whether you choose to stay here during winter or summer, Racecourse Beach has something for everyone.

Jervis Bay

After an adrenaline-filled snow holiday in NSW, take a break in stunning Jervis Bay. This place is perfect to rest your weary bones in a beachside paradise. Well known for its white sandy beaches and turquoise blue waters, you will find complete serenity only three-hours’ drive from Sydney and just under five hours from Jindabyne.

Things to do in Jervis Bay

The tranquil beaches here are perfect for swimming, paddle boarding, snorkelling, diving, kayaking, whale, and dolphin watching, or simply laying back on.

There are plenty of nature walks and cycling tracks for some light exercise to get that blood pumping. A less strenuous option to increase blood flow is to get a massage. There are many day spas in the area with a range of treatments and massage styles. The perfect way to relax after a busy holiday.

There are many restaurants, cafes, and wineries in the surrounding area to refuel your body. Check out our guide to eating like a local on the South Coast.

Where to stay in Jervis Bay

Tasman Holiday Parks – Myola is the perfect accommodation in the Jervis Bay area. It has all the comforts of home with a range of refurbished poolside cabins. For those that prefer the great outdoors, there are powered and unpowered campsites for caravans or tents. With plenty of amenities including a swimming pool, tennis court and playground – the kids will be happy to explore the park as they please.

Immerse yourself in nature.

Break up the journey home with a beach stay

Book your stay with one of our Tasman Holiday Parks on the South Coast of NSW today. Our holiday parks will have you relaxing in no time before you return to the hustle and bustle.

Eat Like a Local on the South Coast of NSW

by tasmanholidayparks

The South Coast of New South Wales stretches from the Illawarra Coast, just south of Sydney to the Sapphire Coast near the Victorian border. There is much to explore here from quaint coastal towns, pristine beaches, dense bushland, beautiful scenery, local wildlife and so much more. It’s also home to many award-winning restaurants, cafes, and wineries. Find out where the locals like to dine at the best restaurants on the south coast.

Merry Street Restaurant and Bar

Nestled in the beautiful coastal town of Kioloa is Merry Street Restaurant and Bar. This family-run south coast restaurant offers a combination of flavours and authentic sophisticated food at affordable prices. Open for lunch and dinner the menu has modern Australian meals perfect for the whole family or just dinner for two. It’s also a great place just to pop in for a cool beverage or a hot coffee.

Cupitt’s Estate

Cupitt’s Estate winery is set in Ulladulla and is the perfect place to indulge in delicious food, good wine, and cold beer amongst a beautiful backdrop. Enjoy paddock-to-plate dining whilst soaking up panoramic views of green hills, wetlands, and mountain ranges. Their menu is inspired by the seasonal food that grows on-site so you know the produce is fresh. Their wines are created with structure and complexity to reflect each varietal character of the region in which they are grown. They also have a microbrewery where they brew mouth-watering beer. Come drop by for a brew with a view.

Take in stunning views while enjoying house made boutique wine, beer & cheese.

Pilgrims Vegetarian Cafe

Pilgrims Vegetarian Café is on the main drag in the country coastal town of Milton. They serve fresh, healthy, and delicious vegetarian meals including burgers, pies, salads, wraps, toasties and Mexican nights on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. It’s not hard to see why this is a local favourite.

Hayden’s Pies

How good is a meat pie with some tomato sauce. If you’re visiting the beautiful coastal town of Ulladulla you simply must visit Hayden’s Pies. Produced with fresh, high quality and locally supplied products, their passionate team love making delicious pies you’ll love. Their menu has a range of pies from your traditional meat pies to Thai green curry, chicken and veg plus a range of vegetarian pies. They also have desserts for those with a sweet tooth.

Stonegrill Huskisson

Enjoy a delicious steak cooked right in front of you on a volcanic stone in Jervis Bay. This interactive restaurant allows you to cook your own meal using a volcanic stone placed on the table. Not only can you cook your own steak, but there are seafood, lamb, and chicken options too. If that’s not your thing there is a range of delicious meals from their A La Carte menu as well as kids’ meals to keep the little ones happy.

Bannisters Pavilion Rooftop Bar and Grill

Bannisters Pavilion Rooftop Bar and Grill is set in the laid-back coastal town of Mollymook. On the menu, you will find a delicious range of modern Australian cuisine. They also have a range of craft beer, wines and refreshing cocktails, perfect after a day in the surf. Visit on a Sunday between 5pm and 8pm and you will be treated to live music.

Rick Stein at Bannisters

Rick Stein is also located at Bannisters in Mollymook. At one of the best restaurants on the south coast, you’ll find fresh, local seafood prepared by celebrity chef Rick Stein. Enhance your dining experience with the perfect wine pairing from their sommelier’s recommendations whilst soaking in the stunning ocean views and relaxed vibe.

JJ’s at The Marina

JJ’s at The Marina is located in Batemans Bay. Enjoy breath-taking water views with floor to ceiling glass windows overlooking the Marina. On the menu, you will find locally and regionally sourced seafood and produce, a few classics as well as share plates with a modern twist. Enjoy a wine, beer, or cocktail with a delicious meal.

The Oyster Farmer’s Daughter

Tucked away in the beautiful coastal town of Narooma is The Oyster Farmers Daughter. This boutique food trailer serves fresh oysters that are farmed on-site on the shores of Wagonga Inlet. Enjoy your oysters in a variety of styles including Kilpatrick, Peated whiskey, natural and more. They also serve other seafood meals that are sourced locally. Sit back in this relaxing setting with a cocktail, wine or beer and soak in the serenity.

South Coast Accommodation

Tasman Holiday Parks have a few holiday parks on NSW’s south coast. Stay at Tasman Holiday Parks – Racecourse Beach and enjoy the natural surroundings and stunning beach. Whether you want to camp under the stars or stay in a cabin or villa that fits the whole family – you will find it here.

We also have Tasman Holiday Parks – Myola on the waters of Jervis Bay. The tranquil beaches here are perfect for swimming, paddle boarding, snorkelling, diving, kayaking, whale, and dolphin watching, and so much more.

Book your stay today and start exploring the best restaurants on the south coast.

Getaway to the South Coast

Seven Must-Haves When Camping with Kids

by tasmanholidayparks

Family Camping Checklist

There’s nothing quite like a family camping trip. Enjoy the great outdoors with minimal distractions to spend quality time with the kids. It’s a great opportunity to create lasting memories, have fun, and unwind.

To make your camping trip that little bit more enjoyable, we have put together a list of must-haves when camping with kids. Add these to your family camping checklist for a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Entertainment for camping with kids

Even though there is plenty of fun to be had in the great outdoors, make sure you’re prepared with other entertainment options. Bring a couple of board games or cards, colouring books, frisbees, or books to play with around the campsite. For some night-time fun, you can’t go wrong with a few glow sticks. Kids love them and it makes it easier to spot them if they walk away from the campsite.

Pack the right clothing

Make sure you know the climate of where you are going and what time of year before starting your family camping checklist. If it’s going to be hot, pack plenty of summer clothing, if it’s cold pack warm clothing for layering. If it’s going to be wet, pack a raincoat and gumboots. Be mindful that clothing could possibly get dirty considering they are going to be outside most of the time. Another few items that you can’t forget are a hat, swimwear, pyjamas, underwear, and socks.

Headlamps

Headlamps are a fantastic item to add to the family camping checklist. As we know it gets quite dark when camping so it’s important to have a light handy to see in the dark. Headlamps are a perfect option for busy kids to see in the dark without using their hands. They are also kind of fun.

First-Aid Kit

When camping with kids be prepared for a few bumps, cuts, and bruises. When spending time in the great outdoors kids will be more active with bike riding, hiking, swimming, climbing and just being kids. This means it’s more likely for an injury to occur. Be prepared with a first aid kit with all the essentials to treat a wide range of injuries. You can buy First-Aid kits from camping stores or make your own.

Foot Washing Station

As we all know kids can be a little more frivolous when it comes to keeping the tent tidy. We need to keep those little feet clean before they enter the tent. Make a foot washing station using a small tub and fill it with fresh water daily. Leave it at the tent door along with a scrubbing brush, soap and a clean towel so they can wash and dry their feet before they enter. This will keep the parents happy and free from dirt, sticks, leaves and God knows what else they drag in from their feet.

A play tent

Another way to keep your tent clean is to have a separate tent for playing. There are plenty of small cheapies on the market that are perfect for play. You can keep all toys and entertainment in there, keeping the tent for sleeping uncluttered and clean.

Clothing organiser

Rather than having the kids rummage through suitcases to find their clothing, get organised with portable clothing racks. You can pick up camp wardrobes and cupboards at camping stores or online to keep the tent organised and uncluttered. It’s also a good idea to have a clothing basket to chuck any dirty clothes in at the end of the day. Some Tasman Holiday Parks have laundry facilities so you can wash clothing as you go or at the end of the trip. That’s one less thing to take care of once you get home.

Book your stay with Tasman Holiday Parks today and start planning for your next family camping trip.

The kids will have a ball at Tasman Holiday Parks.

5 of the best activities for nature lovers in the Bay of Plenty

by tasmanholidayparks

Have you considered a holiday in the beautiful Bay of Plenty? Here are 5 of the best nature activities to inspire your next getaway!

Nature lovers rejoice! The Bay of Plenty is the perfect spot to go for a nature-filled getaway in New Zealand. From local hikes, waterfalls, surfing, sightseeing, and more, there is plenty to keep you busy if you like to enjoy the outdoors on holiday.

Getting outdoors and enjoying nature is one of the best ways to appreciate a new place and check out the local sights. In New Zealand, you will experience plenty of local wildlife and nature almost anywhere you go. Get out and about to make the most of what our beautiful country has to offer.

Here are 5 of the best activities for nature lovers in the Bay of Plenty!

1. Mauao Summit Walk

You’ve probably seen photos of the stunning view from Mauao before. This popular walk takes about 40 minutes and requires a good level of fitness given the steep climb up. Enjoy incredible views over Mount Maunganui and towards Waihi Beach – you’ll feel on top of the world here! Take a packed lunch and enjoy the 360 views once you reach the summit.

You can choose between two different tracks to reach the top of the mountain, or take the route around the base of the mountain for an easier stroll. If you’re walking in summertime, don’t forget to take plenty of water and sunscreen! The track isn’t paved and can be slippery on the way down, so a good pair of shoes is recommended too.

2. Surfing at Waihi Beach

Surf’s up at Waihi Beach, one of the safest and best spots in NZ.

Surfs up!

Waihi Beach is a great place to get some surfing practice in no matter your skill level. Bring your own surfboard or rent one at one of the local surf shops. If you’re a beginner, why not take a surfing lesson with Waihi Beach Surf School to improve your skills? You’ll be a pro in no time! They offer private, group and family lessons for everyone to enjoy.

Given it’s one of the safest and best places to surf and swim, Waihi Beach is very popular, and can get quite busy in summertime. Make sure you watch out for other surfers and swimmers when you’re in the water, and always follow the beach rules.

If surfing’s not your style, take a dip to refresh or sunbathe on the beautiful sandy beaches.

Stay at Tasman Holiday Parks – Waihi Beach or Tasman Holiday Parks – Beachaven and you’ll be within walking distance to the beach. It’s the perfect spot for a beachside escape!

3. McLaren Falls

A short 10 minute drive from Tauranga, you’ll find the McLaren Falls Park.

You’ll definitely want to go chasing this waterfall!

McLaren Falls Park is a short 10 minute drive from Tauranga, offering 190-hectares of parkland alongside Lake McLaren. There’s plenty to do here, including fishing, kayaking, bush walks and concerts in the summertime, making it the perfect place to enjoy nature. Take a stroll down to the waterfall and keep an eye out for glow worms after dusk! There are plenty of great swimming holes and spots in the area too, which are a great place to stop in and cool down on a hot day.

If you’re staying at Tasman Holiday Parks – Papamoa Beach, you’ll be only 30 minutes away from the park. You will also be within an easy drive to plenty of other great waterfalls and water holes in the area!

4. Papamoa Hill Regional Park

An ideal spot for avid hikers, the Papamoa Hills Regional Park offers several trails to enjoy and get your heart rate up. The main track is over 200 metres above sea level, offering incredible views across the coastline. You can also choose from several other trails that weave around the park. There’s no such thing as a wrong turn in this stunning park!

Over 50,000 native plants have recently been planted, and you can also spot seven pā sites in the hills – this is where Papamoa’s original Māori inhabitants lived. It’s the perfect mix of nature and cultural heritage to explore and appreciate during your stay in the Bay of Plenty.

5. Redwoods Forest Walk

A little further afield, but well worth the drive, is the Redwoods Treewalk in Rotorua. Surround yourself by 75-metre-tall redwoods as you walk along the suspended pathway, learning the history of the 120-year-old trees and how they came to be planted in New Zealand.

The 28 suspension bridges range between 9-20 meters off the ground, allowing you to experience these magnificent trees at varying heights.

The walk takes about 40 minutes and can be done during the daytime or at nighttime with the trees illuminated by lights. This is a great unique family friendly activity to add to your holiday bucketlist!

Rotorua is about an hour’s drive from Tauranga, and offers plenty of fun nature and adrenalin activities to enjoy.

Where to stay?

The Bay of Plenty has lots to explore for the whole family.

If you’re heading to Papamoa Beach, check out Tasman Holiday Parks – Papamoa Beach for beachfront camping, gorgeous villas, and great facilities. Or if you’re heading up to Waihi Beach, Tasman Holiday Parks – Waihi Beach and Tasman Holiday Parks – Beachaven are the ideal spots to stay for your next getaway. Book your stay now!