I stayed in Tauranga. Love the beaches. The kai moana is 'to die for'. Especially if its fresh from the sea. Tauranga has a lot to offer. If you plan on going to Tauranga make sure you experience the food, culture and beaches. Tauranga usually hosts the Matariki Cultural festival annually in February. Check it out, if you haven't experienced a hangi that's the place to taste it. Check out Mt Maunganui and Paparoa as well.