Te Puna offers a lookout at an elevation of 286 m, a 15-minute loop walk and cider made from fruit such as apples, pears, feijoas and citrus fruit. When planning, you can consider the scenery, nature walk and local production as distinct highlights.

Minden Lookout: Panoramic views over Tauranga and the coast

Near the intersection of Minden Road and Junction Road, Minden Lookout sits at an elevation of 286 m. From the viewing platform, the panoramic view extends over Tauranga, Mount Maunganui, Matakana Island and the surrounding coast. An accessible path leads to the platform.

The view therefore takes in Tauranga as well as the island, Mount Maunganui and the coastal landscape. If you’re mainly looking for a panorama during your visit, this is a clear highlight.

Nature Trails and Parks

Minden Scenic Reserve is accessible via Ainsworth Road and offers a 15-minute loop walk. There is a small car park at the start of the trail. The walk’s duration is a useful guide if you’re planning a short nature stroll.

At the end of Plummers Point Road in Te Puna is the regional Huharua Harbour Park. It is jointly owned by Western Bay of Plenty District Council and Tauranga City Council. The park was acquired for public use across the wider area of Tauranga City and Western Bay of Plenty.

North of Te Puna, nearby, is I’Anson Reserve. It has young stands of native trees, an artificial lake, lawns and walking paths. Facilities also include parking, a toilet and picnic tables.

Cider at The Cider Factorie

The Cider Factorie Restaurant + Cellar Door is located in Te Puna’s green belt, Tauranga. The offering includes harbour and mountain views, a menu of fresh bites, and award-winning ciders to taste and buy. Since 2012, The Cider Factorie in Te Puna has made a range of award-winning ciders from apples, pears, feijoas and citrus fruit. The fruit varieties mentioned give the production its own place alongside the restaurant and Cellar Door.

More destinations in the Western Bay of Plenty District

In the wider Western Bay of Plenty District destination, Katikati and the Orokawa Bay Walk offer other distinct experiences. In Katikati Town Centre, a loop walk leads from Haiku Park along paths with haiku verses carved into rocks and paving. It follows Uretara Stream, crosses a footbridge to Uretara Landing and continues along the main road to murals and other artworks in the town centre.

The Katikati Cuisine Trail offers the chance to meet local artisan food producers and sample their products on site. Individual producers and offerings may change.

The Orokawa Bay Walk begins at the northern end of Waihī Beach and crosses coastal headlands to Orokawa Bay. The route is listed as taking about 45 minutes each way. Compared with the 15-minute loop walk at Minden Scenic Reserve, this is a longer walk. Tides and swell affect access; check conditions before setting out. The trail passes through dense bush with pōhutukawa, Kauri and Puriri trees, as well as native Nikau palms. Orokawa Bay is part of a 145-hectare scenic reserve.

Discover more destinations: Aongatete, Paengaroa, Waihi Beach, Papamoa, Whakamarama, Tahawai, Pukehina, Katikati

For the wider travel overview: Western Bay of Plenty District.