This run in downtown Tauranga combines a scenic path along the waterfront (known as The Strand) with the Matapihi Footbridge crossing Waipu Bay, with great views. It’s a must-do experience in Tauranga.
Matapihi Footbridge. Google Street View
The paved waterfront path runs for 1.4 km from Trinity Wharf near the Pacific Coast Highway south to the Matapihi Footbridge. It runs parallel to The Strand in downtown Tauranga. There are nice water views, outdoor sculptures, and a festive scene. The path leads to the Matapihi Footbridge, a former railroad bridge that’s now a pedestrian bridge and cycleway. The railroad ties are still there. Part of the path is concrete and part wooden plank. There are terrific views. The bridge goes for ~1 km. Once across the bridge, retrace your steps to the start.
Add-Ons; There’s a good running track is at Tauranga and Wharepai Domains, which is just 300m inland from the waterfront path (use McLean St.). Can also combine with the Waikareao Estuary Walkway route, which is ~500m inland.
This run in downtown Tauranga combines a scenic path along the waterfront (known as The Strand) with the Matapihi Footbridge crossing Waipu Bay, with great views. It’s a must-do experience in Tauranga.
Matapihi Footbridge. Google Street View
The paved waterfront path runs for 1.4 km from Trinity Wharf near the Pacific Coast Highway south to the Matapihi Footbridge. It runs parallel to The Strand in downtown Tauranga. There are nice water views, outdoor sculptures, and a festive scene. The path leads to the Matapihi Footbridge, a former railroad bridge that’s now a pedestrian bridge and cycleway. The railroad ties are still there. Part of the path is concrete and part wooden plank. There are terrific views. The bridge goes for ~1 km. Once across the bridge, retrace your steps to the start.
Add-Ons; There’s a good running track is at Tauranga and Wharepai Domains, which is just 300m inland from the waterfront path (use McLean St.). Can also combine with the Waikareao Estuary Walkway route, which is ~500m inland.
One of the most popular runs in Tauranga. Scenic 8.2 km loop around the estuary, past mangroves, wetlands and marshland. Nice water views. West side especially scenic. Path a mix of paved, gravel, & boardwalk. Good add-on options.
Another nice waterfront run in central Tauranga. The concrete path goes for 3.3 km between Tauranga Port and Fergusson Park. There are lovely views of Plenty Bay, and some nice shade trees. Add with Waikareao Estuary loop.
Wonderful running in the Mount Mauao area, with three elements that can be done separately or combined: trails around the base or to the 232m summit; a waterfront path along Marine Parade; and some idyllic beach running.
An easy, flat run along a narrow stream in South Tauranga. There are paved & unpaved options, and a nice detour into Cambridge Park. Up to 6 km one-way. At the north end, can connect to the Waikareao Estuary Walkway.
Terrific running in the Pāpāmoa Beach area: The inland 6.4 km Pāpāmoa Walkway passing through several green Reserve areas; a 3 km multi-use trail along Pāpāmoa Beach Rd; and 15+ km of idyllic beach running.
Johnson Reserve is a nice running option in the Welcome Bay suburb. The easy 1.9 km trail follows streams, wetland areas, native bush and open grassed areas. Nearby Waioraka Reserve has has a 1 km trail. Can combine using Welcome Bay Rd.
It's worth the 10 minute drive from Tauranga to enjoy easy to moderate trail running in this 190 hectare shaded park, known for its waterfalls & lakeside trail. Good shade option on a hot day. See glow worms after dusk!
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