Planning a road trip to Tauranga in a Mighty NZ campervan hire? You're in for a treat, especially if you're a foodie on a budget. In this blog, we’ll guide you through Tauranga's best cheap eats and affordable dining experiences. From the bustling Tauranga Farmers Market to the iconic Bobby’s Fresh Fish Market, we've got your food itinerary covered. We'll also explore cosy spots like The Clover and, for those who love a good brew, we'll dive into Tauranga's brewery scene.
Join us as we discover the best cheap places to eat in Tauranga, making your campervan road trip both delicious and budget-friendly.
What’s Tauranga known for?
Located in the sun-soaked Bay of Plenty, Tauranga is known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and laid-back lifestyle. As you travel in your camper, you'll find plenty of fun things to do in Tauranga.
A popular drawcard is the beautiful harbour, perfect for kayaking and sailing, offering an unforgettable escape for nature lovers. Mount Maunganui is another highlight, boasting a beautiful beach and a chilled-out holiday vibe.
Culturally, Tauranga is a hub of artistic expression and history. The city is dotted with incredible street art, reflecting its thriving arts scene. Historical landmarks, such as the Elms Mission Station, offer a glimpse into the region's rich heritage.
Best of all, the culinary scene in Tauranga offers up a tasty array of goodies. From the fresh produce of the Tauranga Farmers Market to a variety of Tauranga restaurants and bars, the city caters to all tastes and budgets. For those keen to sample the cheap eats in Tauranga, the selection is plentiful, making it a must-visit destination on your New Zealand travel itinerary.
What’s the best way to explore Tauranga?
Exploring Tauranga in a campervan is arguably the best way to fully immerse yourself in the unique charm of this coastal city. Enjoy the convenience of your comfortable bed, private bathroom, kitchen facilities, and storage for all your adventure gear.
With the flexibility and comfort of a campervan hire from Mighty, you have the freedom to create your own travel itinerary, uncovering Tauranga's hidden gems at your own pace. Whether it's a picnic at the beach, exploring the local art scene, or enjoying the nightlife, your home on wheels makes it fun and easy. It also means you can spontaneously decide to stay longer at a spot you fall in love with or change your plans as new discoveries arise.
As a bonus, Tauranga's campervan-friendly facilities make it an ideal destination for road trippers. From well-equipped holiday parks to stunning free camping spots, you're spoilt for choice when it comes to finding a place to park and rest.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
The best affordable food and drink experiences in Tauranga
Ready to whet your appetite with a taste of Tauranga? Let’s check out what’s on the menu.
1. Grab a burger and beer at Cornerstone
Kick off your weekend in Tauranga with an unbeatable offer at Cornerstone Bar & Eatery. Every Friday, from 10 am till late, Cornerstone becomes the go-to spot for a fantastic deal that's hard to resist – their $15 burger and beer special. This popular eatery, located at 107 The Strand, is the perfect place to relax and enjoy good food and drinks without stretching your budget. Cornerstone's welcoming vibe and central location make it a great spot to mingle with locals, meet fellow travellers, or simply unwind after a day of adventure.
The Friday special includes a delicious beef burger, stacked with classic fillings and served alongside crispy fries. To complement your meal, choose between an Export Gold, a house wine, or a soft drink. It's a tasty meal at an excellent price.
2. Stock up on fresh produce from Tauranga Farmers Market
A visit to the Tauranga Farmers Market is a must-do experience for anyone travelling in a campervan. Located at the Tauranga Primary School every Saturday from 7.45 am to 12 pm, this market is a bustling community hub. Immerse yourself in the local culture and pick up some of the freshest produce in the region.
The market offers a wide variety of stalls with everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to free-range eggs, dairy products, and freshly baked goods. You'll also find stalls selling flowers, plants, nuts, and even local wines and liquors. It's the perfect place to stock up on ingredients for creating delicious homemade meals in your campervan kitchen. The joy of cooking with fresh, locally sourced ingredients adds a special touch to your road trip experience.
Craft beer enthusiasts and food lovers exploring Tauranga in a campervan should definitely plan a visit to the Rising Tide Brewery. Located at 107 Newton Street, Mount Maunganui, this brewery is not just about great beer; it's a place where good vibes meet good value.
The Rising Tide is the taproom for the local Mount Brewing Co, featuring a wide array of beers and ciders. With 40 taps, including 20 from Mount Brewing Co's core range, there's a taste to suit every palate. Whether you're a craft beer aficionado or new to the scene, you'll find something to enjoy.
The brewery is also home to Johney’s Dumpling House, where you’ll find some fantastic deals on offer. Check out their $14 Monday Beer & Dumpling deal all day and $8 Happy Hour from 3-6 pm. The brewery's huge outdoor deck at Soper Reserve is the perfect spot to relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy your meal and drinks. It's a family-friendly (and doggo-friendly) venue, making it an ideal stop on your campervan road trip.
4. Build your own burger at The Clover
The Clover in Tauranga is a fab spot for burger enthusiasts and those looking for a casual, yet unique dining experience. At The Clover, you can build your own burger. Starting at an affordable $4, customise your burger to your taste with a range of fresh ingredients and toppings. It's a fun and interactive dining experience that adds a personal touch to your meal. You’ll also find low-priced wings and a tempting burger and fries combo, making it a hit for those seeking quality food at affordable prices.
5. Get a bottomless dinner at DOCA
DOCA, located at 6 Wharf Street, is known for its welcoming atmosphere and evening pizza bar. On Fridays and Saturdays from 6 pm, DOCA transforms into a haven for food and drink lovers with its exclusive bottomless dinner experience. For $69 per person, you can enjoy one grazing plate and pizza per person, shared desserts for the table, and two hours of flowing drinks from their $8 cocktails and drinks menu.
Additionally, DOCA offers a Bottomless Prosecco Arvo on Saturdays from 3 pm. This experience includes a shared antipasto platter, a pizza or grazing plate of your choice, and two hours of flowing prosecco, mimosas, and prosecco spritz of the day, all for $59 per person.
Image: Joshua Tree
6. Join in on happy hour at The Hop House
Another Wharf Street favourite, The Hop House offers some enticing deals. Happy hour runs every Wednesday from 4 pm to 6 pm. During this time, you can enjoy tap beers, house wines, and spirits for just $8 each. It's the perfect opportunity to unwind with a drink in hand, enjoying the relaxed and friendly vibe of the bar.
The Hop House also offers other great deals throughout the week. On Saturdays, they serve up $25 half-rack BBQ pork ribs with fries and onion rings, and on Sundays, you can indulge in a $20 gourmet roast, available from 12 pm until sold out.
7. Enjoy some well-priced seafood at Bobby’s fish market
Keen on some seriously good seafood? Bobby’s Fish Market, a renowned spot in Tauranga, is a haven for seafood enthusiasts. Located at 1 Dive Crescent, this market is celebrated for offering some of the freshest and tastiest seafood in the city, all at reasonable prices. The market's prime location by the waterfront enhances the dining experience, allowing guests to enjoy their meal with a beautiful view of the harbour.
The market is not just about great seafood; it's about the experience. The atmosphere at Bobby’s is relaxed and inviting. It’s the perfect spot for a casual yet memorable meal during your campervan journey in Tauranga. The friendly staff and the market's commitment to quality make it a must-visit for anyone looking for an authentic seafood experience.
8. Quiz night and cocktails at Astrolabe
Astrolabe, located at 82 Maunganui Road, Mount Maunganui, is one of Tauranga’s popular bars. One of the highlights at Astrolabe is their quiz night, which offers a fun and interactive way to enjoy an evening out.
Astrolabe is also known for its creative and delicious cocktails, making it a favourite spot for both locals and visitors. Whether you're looking to test your trivia knowledge or simply enjoy a well-crafted cocktail, Astrolabe provides the perfect setting. It's an ideal place to unwind after a day of exploring in your campervan, offering a taste of Tauranga's vibrant nightlife.
Where to stay in Tauranga
Now that you’ve got the low-down on the best cheap eats in Tauranga, here are a few top spots to park up your camper while you’re there.
Omokoroa TOP 10 Holiday Park
A fantastic choice for campervan travellers exploring the Tauranga area, Omokoroa TOP 10 Holiday Park offers a peaceful retreat with stunning views and a great range of facilities. Located in the picturesque peninsula of Ōmokoroa, just a short drive from Tauranga, the holiday park is surrounded by natural beauty. It offers easy access to the beach, making it perfect for those who love the sea and sand. The park's location also means you're close to local attractions and activities, including walks, thermal hot pools, and golf courses.
Tauranga Tourist Park
Just 4 km from the city centre, Tauranga Tourist Park is the perfect setup for campervan travellers. Enjoy the easy access to the city's attractions, dining, and shopping, while still enjoying the tranquillity of a park setting. The park's location also makes it a great starting point for exploring the wider Bay of Plenty region, known for its stunning beaches, scenic walks, and vibrant cultural experiences.
The park offers well-maintained powered sites that provide all the necessary facilities for a comfortable stay. Guests can take advantage of clean and modern amenities, including kitchen and bathroom facilities, laundry services, and communal areas for relaxation and socialising.
Ready to eat your way around Tauranga?
Tauranga's diverse offerings, from its vibrant culinary scene to its beautiful natural landscapes, make it a must-visit destination on your New Zealand journey.
Ready to kick off an unforgettable road trip to Tauranga? Book your Mighty camper online today and start planning your journey through this awesome city.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
Image: Joshua Tree