Paengaroa: Kiwifruit, Cycle Trails and Rural Character

Paengaroa: Rural Character and Kiwifruit Growing

Paengaroa is a rural settlement east of Te Puke, at the eastern end of the Tauranga Eastern Link Motorway. For planning your trip, two local highlights are easy to distinguish: kiwifruit growing and cycle trails. You can then decide whether you’d like to learn more about farming or make a ride through rural terrain the focus of your visit.

Comvita in Paengaroa

Comvita describes Paengaroa as its home and as a place for people to work with and learn from nature. The company’s global headquarters are also located here. From the road, the Comvita warehouse resembles large, colourful beehives. The Comvita café, shop and experience centre in Paengaroa are no longer open to visitors. As the closure status may change, please check again before your trip.

A Look at Kiwifruit Growing

Kiwifruit Country is a family-owned and family-operated tour company. Expert guides show how kiwifruit is grown, pruned, pollinated and harvested throughout the seasons. The focus is on the farming activities across the year. If you’re interested in growing kiwifruit, the tour offers a first-hand look at the work behind the fruit.

Cycle Trails and Scenery

The Kaikōkopu Cycle Trail runs between Paengaroa and Ōkere Falls. The Kaikōkopu ride through rural areas passes through varied terrain, including native bush, kiwifruit orchards and farms, with views of lakes and the sea along the way. The ride takes in both working landscapes and bushland, as well as expansive views.

When choosing a route, keep the information separate: Kaikōkopu runs between Paengaroa and Ōkere Falls, while horses are not allowed on the cycle trail from Paengaroa to Rotoiti. This restriction applies to the trail to Rotoiti. This gives you different information for planning: the Kaikōkopu Cycle Trail’s route and scenery, and a specific usage rule for the trail to Rotoiti.

Culture and Nature in the Wider Western Bay of Plenty District Destination

In Katikati, the Town Centre walking trail leads from Haiku Park along paths with haiku verses carved into rocks and the pavement. The trail follows the Uretara Stream, crosses a footbridge to Uretara Landing, then continues along the main road to murals and other artworks in the town centre. Individual installations may change. The route brings haiku and visual art together in a walking tour of Katikati.

The Orokawa Bay Walk starts at the northern end of Waihī Beach and follows coastal headlands to Orokawa Bay. The walk takes about 45 minutes each way. The trail passes through dense bush with pōhutukawa, kauri and puriri trees, as well as native nikau palms. Orokawa Bay is part of a 145-hectare scenic reserve. Tides and swell affect access; check conditions before your visit.

Another option in the wider Western Bay of Plenty District destination is the Katikati Cuisine Trail. There, you can meet local artisan food producers and sample their products on site. Individual producers and offerings may change, so it’s worth checking what’s currently available before your visit.

Discover more destinations: Aongatete, Te Puna, Athenree, Papamoa, Lower Kaimai, Waihi Beach, Whakamarama, Pyes Pa

For the wider travel overview: Western Bay of Plenty District.