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Mauao, Mount
Maunganui
Pictures
of Mauao
Hotels
in Mount Maunganui
Hotels
in Tauranga
 by
Richard Moore
Mauao,
or Mount Maunganui, is an iconic hill in Tauranga
rising more than 230 metres and guarding the entrance to Tauranga
Harbour.
It
is a place of Maori legends, stunning views and somewhere to enjoy
exercise in one of the best climates in New Zealand.
An
extinct volcano, Mauao dominates the landscape and can be seen for
many miles around. Indeed when returning home to the Bay
of Plenty it is a sight that always gladdens the heart.
 Many
people take a daily walk up Mauao, but it isn't an easy task for
the unfit.
There
are several routes to the top - varying in difficulty - and as anyone
who has made the effort can attest, it is worth the sweat.
The views from the summit
are fabulous and sitting relaxing up there on a summer's day is
simply heavenly.
And
imagine watching hang-gliders
as they float about - beneath you!
If
you don't feel like that much exercise then you can do the base-track
circuit which is mighty popular - particularly at weekends.
 It
takes about 40 minutes to walk around Mauao and during that you
get to see beautiful Matakana Island and any ships powering into
the harbour. When the large cruise ships come in it is truly a sight
to behold.
After
your walk relax in the cafes along the Mount Main Beach and sample
some excellent cuisine while you are there.
Sunday
mornings are hectic at The Mount.
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