Papamoa Hills Regional Park is a spot well-known for its breathtaking panoramas across the Eastern Coast of the North Island.
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If you’re considering a visit to this remarkable destination (which I’m saying now, you absolutely should), I’ve outlined everything you need to know below.
PAPAMOA HILLS REGIONAL PARK
Papamoa Hills Regional Park offers more than just the incredible views across the Bay of Plenty. It’s a place steeped in archaeological and cultural significance. With numerous pā sites scattered throughout the park, accompanied by informative panels, visitors have the opportunity to delve deeper into the rich history of the area while enjoying the stunning views.
PAPAMOA HILLS REGIONAL PARK LOCATION
Tucked away in the scenic Bay of Plenty, New Zealand, Papamoa Hills spans across a 182-hectare property. Located a short 20 minutes (19km) from Tauranga, an hours drive (72km) from Whakatāne or additionally, a scenic three-hours (240km) road trip from bustling Auckland.
Setting out from Tauranga? Start your journey on State Highway 2, then switch onto the Pacific Coast Highway. When you reach Poplar Lane, less than one km will bring you to either of the carparks, where you can start exploring Papamoa Hills Regional Park.
PAPAMOA HILLS REGIONAL PARK PARKING
Parking at the base of the Papamoa Hills Regional Park is super convenient and there’s also two options to choose from.
Recently, upgrades along Poplar Lane introduced a new carpark, featuring a wheelchair-friendly short loop track. Additionally, an 80m staircase provides a more direct route within the new track and provides easy access to some less-traveled paths.
Continuing down the road, you’ll come across the original carpark, where the path will lead up to the trig station. I personally am yet to experience the tracks from the new carpark, something that I’m looking forward to. There is also now a new 1500m walkway connecting the new carpark to the original one.
TRACKS
The new tracks are yet to be mapped out on AllTrails. However, you can spot the routes. Overall, the tracks from the original carpark these are the two main routes.
SUMMIT – KEY INSIGHTS
Location: Bay of Plenty, New Zealand
Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
Length: 3.7 km | 2.3 miles
Elevation: 194m
Difficulty: Easy – Moderate
Open: Year-round
Need to have: Water, snacks and sun protection.
SUMMIT + LOOP – KEY INSIGHTS
Duration: 1 hour 50 minutes
Length: 5.3 km | 3.3 miles
Elevation: 258m
Difficulty: Easy – Moderate
Open: Year-round
Need to have: Water, snacks and sun protection.
Both trails begin on the same path, with the loop providing a more comprehensive exploration of the Regional Park boundary. Initially, both paths lead over gravel terrain before opening up to lush grasslands. As you traverse the park, expect to encounter its resident four-legged visitors, as all tracks wind through farmland.
The views from the summit are incredible. Once you’re here, you’ll experience 360-degree scenery spanning the entire Bay, from Mount Maunganui to the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, tracing the coastline and extending across the landscape to the Waikato region. It really is a beautiful spot to take in all of the surroundings.
Personally, my favourite time to visit is sunrise. Particularly due to the early mornings being a little quieter and if you’re lucky, you’ll have parts of the park to yourself.
ACCOMMODATION
Accommodation options around Papamoa Hills Regional Park are abundant, offering a variety of choices due to its proximity to many different areas. While AirBnB is a popular choice, those seeking a more unique experience may want to consider Canopy Camping. Understandably if this a bit beyond your budget, likewise Unyolked, Tiny Away or Riparide could be appealing. These accommodations cater to nature lovers and enthusiasts of the unplugged, glamping lifestyle. I’ve personally stayed in both Canopy Camping and Tiny Away, but I’ve also heard wonderful things about Riparide and Unyolked. Interested in an experience with Tiny Away and want to know what to expect? Click here.
ADDITIONAL PARK NOTES
- Every evening, staff lock the gate to the carpark.
- The park essentially opens from sunrise to sunset: 6.30 am – 7 pm (winter); 6.30 am – 9 pm (summer).
- Bay of Plenty Regional Council manages the park.
- Authorities prohibit dogs at all times.
- Horse trekking is prohibited.
- Authorities do not allow camping.
- Motorbikes are not permitted.
- Authorities prohibit fires.
- Mountain biking is prohibited.
In this post, we’ve taken a dive into Papamoa Hills Regional Park. From its insane views to practical tips like parking and trail descriptions, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re up for sunrise to experience this place on your own or here to see the new additions to the park, you’re in for a treat.