Mount Maunganui is all sun, salt, and good times – and the best part?
You don’t need big money to enjoy it.
Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or lucky enough to call the Mount home, there are heaps of budget-friendly ways to fill your day with ocean, views, and classic Kiwi fun.
From beachfront eats, action-packed activities, to coastal walks, here are 10 epic things to do for under 50 bucks.
1. Hire a Surfboard, AND GO SURF!
If there’s one thing you have to do at the Mount, it’s surf, even if you’ve never stood on a board before.
The easiest, most budget option to give surfing a go by far, is to hire a surfboard. In fact you can jump in the water to give it a try from as little as $30.
Without blowing our own trumpet we're a pretty good spot to hire a surfboard in Mount Maunganui. We're located right overlooking the best learn to surf beach in the country, and we've got a huge range to choose from too.
2. Walk the Mauao Base Track – Free
One of New Zealand’s best coastal walks is completely free. The track wraps around the base of Mauao with insane views the whole way – turquoise water, offshore islands, and surfers cruising Main Beach.
Takes about 45 minutes and pairs perfectly with a post-walk swim.
3. Summit Mission to the Top – Free
If your legs are feeling energetic, take the summit track for 360° views over the Mount and Tauranga Harbour.
Sunrise up here hits different – worth the early alarm.
4. Soak at the Mount Hot Pools – Around $20
After a day in the ocean, even better after a day of surfing, the saltwater hot pools are elite.
Warm, relaxing, and right at the base of Mauao.
Insider tip...
...if you've come to us for a surf lesson you get 20% off the entry price.
5. Fish & Chips on the Sand – $15–$25
Grab a paper-wrapped feed and park up on Main Beach.
No booking, no dress code, million-dollar view.
6. Cruise Pilot Bay on an E-Scooter – ~$30
The harbour side of the Mount is perfect for a chilled scoot – flat paths, calm water, and plenty of spots to stop for an ice cream.
7. Sunday Mount Market – Free Entry
Local stalls, fresh food, and good people watching.
A great way to experience the Mount community without spending a cent.
8. Beach Games on Main Beach – Free
Volleyball nets, soft sand, and endless space.
Bring a frisbee or a ball and you’ve got instant entertainment.
9. Sunset Picnic at Leisure Island – $10–$30
Moturiki (Leisure Island) is one of the best sunset spots in town. Grab snacks, wander out, and watch the sky turn on a show.
Dolphins often cruise past if you’re lucky.
Mount Maunganui On a Budget
You can come to Mount Maunganui and spend a fortune on fine-dining, and living it up.
Or you can come and enjoy the more simple things in life and enjoy it just as much.
With a destination that's surrounded with natural beauty, there's no need to break the bank, and it can be enjoyed all the same.
So get out there, get creative, and go enjoy everything this place has to offer.