Mount Maunganui is located on the east coast of New Zealand’s North Island.
With a warm climate, a beautiful coastline and one of the best surf beaches in New Zealand, Mount Maunganui is perfect for students who are looking for a relaxed study environment.
Living in Mount Maunganui as a student
The population of this friendly town changes seasonally, as holidaymakers flock to the beach in the summer. During the rest of the year, the area has a laidback, beachside feel, and residents enjoy plenty of sunny days.
Mount Maunganui Language Centre is just a 5-minute walk from the beach, and offers a range of courses, including English plus surfing or golf!
Most students stay with homestay families, but you can also choose to stay in a guesthouse or a furnished apartment. Many accommodation options are within walking or biking distance to school.
What to do in Mount Maunganui
Mount Maunganui is a recreation paradise. Spend time with your friends on the beautiful white sand beach and learn to surf or ‘blokart’. The ocean is a part of life here, so it’s easy to enjoy marine sports and fishing. You can even try swimming with the dolphins.
A hike up ‘The Mount’ will provide you with unforgettable views, and a walk across the bridge to see the blowholes on Moturiki Island is another must-do activity. Afterwards, take a soak in the hot saltwater pools – a great way to relax and practise English with your new friends!
You can also catch the bus into Tauranga to visit the Waimarino Water and Adventure Park or one of the many weekend markets.
Eating and drinking in Mount Maunganui
Mount Maunganui Language Centre is located in the heart of the town’s dining precinct, which has plenty of delicious options ranging from budget-friendly snacks to gourmet meals.
Grab an ice cream from Copenhagen Cone, a waffle or crepe from Yo and Co, or some fish and chips from Bobby’s Fresh Fish Market to eat on the beach with your friends.
For a special night out, visit Harbourside or Salinity in Tauranga for a delicious dinner with great views out over the bay.
Venues, facilities and events in Mount Maunganui
Mount Maunganui and Tauranga host a range of fun events – you can see one of New Zealand’s oldest triathlon competitions or enjoy one of the many cultural events held in Tauranga throughout the year, such as the National Jazz Festival.
Every December, Mount Maunganui celebrates the New Year with a lively fireworks event, enjoyed by both locals and the many visitors making the most of one of New Zealand’s most popular summer holiday spots.
What to see and do in the Mount Maunganui region
There’s lots to explore in the Bay of Plenty region. Not far from Tauranga, you can visit McLaren Falls Park to see its picturesque lake and waterfalls, or check out the cool sculptures at Te Puna Quarry Park.
For something a little different, take a day trip to Te Puke, the kiwifruit capital of New Zealand! In Te Puke, you can take a photo with the famous giant kiwifruit, go on a guided tour of a honey factory, hike through the spectacular scenery of Otanewainuku Forest, or discover one of the beautiful local beaches.
You should also take a trip to the Coromandel Peninsula to see its breathtaking scenery and relax at the hot water beach.
Why learn English in Mount Maunganui?
Choose Mount Maunganui if you want to study English while living at the beach and enjoying a relaxed lifestyle in a warm climate.
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