Mount Maunganui, Sacred volcanic peak in Bay of Plenty, New Zealand.
Mount Maunganui is an extinct volcano that rises from the ocean and forms a peninsula with beaches facing both the harbor and the Pacific Ocean. The peak reaches about 232 meters and offers views across the bay and surrounding coastal areas from the top.
The volcano formed about 2.35 million years ago as part of the Tauranga Volcanic Centre and is a solidified rhyolite lava dome. This geological event created the distinctive landform that shapes the landscape today.
The mountain holds deep meaning for Māori communities who see it as a sacred place tied to their history and identity. Local people gather here for ceremonies and celebrations that connect them to their ancestors and the land.
Several walking tracks with different difficulty levels lead to the summit, with a typical ascent taking between 30 and 60 minutes. The paths are well marked and the area is busy during daylight hours, making it a safe place to explore.
A natural sandbar called a tombolo connects the volcanic peak to the mainland, creating beaches on both sides of the peninsula. This geological feature is relatively uncommon and gives the location its distinctive coastal shape.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
