|
Sunshine, surf and a size that fitsTauranga, population 122,000, is the biggest city in the Bay of Plenty region of the North Island of New Zealand. It is also the country’s sixth largest urban area and one of the fastest growing cities. Its port is New Zealand's largest in terms of gross export tonnage. With 2,271 sunshine hours per year (2012 figure) the city ranks among the sunniest spots in the country. Its beaches, most prominently the ones in Mount Maunganui and Papamoa, and many bays form a stunning environment with views to die for. Auckland, New Zealand’s biggest city and the place I had originally wanted to return to, is a 2.5-hour drive away. However, Tauranga beats Auckland in many respects: more affordable real estate prices, no traffic congestion, yet a good infrastructure and all services such as shopping, community and medical facilities one might need, even including an airport. In a nutshell: Tauranga is big enough to have the benefits of a city but small enough to lack most of the downsides of a huge metropolitan city. It’s just right. |
|
Click to see "Tauranga" Photo Gallery or stunning 360° Panoramas from Mount Maunganui