Nau mai, Haere mai Welcome

Nau mai, haere mai – Welcome to the Bay of Plenty Region
From Bay of Plenty Regional Council | Toi Moana

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We’re delighted to welcome you to the beautiful Bay of Plenty – a region rich in cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and deep connections between land, water, and people.

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Stretching from the forested Kaimai and Raukūmara ranges to the vibrant estuaries of Maketū and Waihi, our region is home to thriving communities, iconic biodiversity, and nationally significant freshwater and coastal ecosystems. Among these are estuaries such as Tauranga Harbour, Ōhiwa Harbour, and Maketu Estuary which support iconic biodiversity and are vital to both ecological health and cultural identity. These wetlands provide habitat for species such as the Australasian bittern (matuku-hūrepo) – a rare and nationally critical bird that depends on healthy wetland environments.

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For generations, tangata whenua have maintained strong relationships with these lands and waters, and their values and mātauranga (knowledge systems) continue to guide the way we manage and restore them. As a Regional Council, we’re proud to work alongside iwi, communities, and industry to restore wetlands, improve water quality, and protect biodiversity – all grounded in the principle of kaitiakitanga (guardianship).

We hope your time in the Bay inspires new connections, fresh thinking, and a deeper appreciation for the powerful role restoration can play in healing both place and people.

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Ngā mihi nui,
Bay of Plenty Regional Council | Toi Moana