Bay of Plenty, New Zealand Pet Friendly Rentals

Why Bay of Plenty is the perfect base for vacation rentals

Bay of Plenty is all about balance. You can wake up to ocean views and walk along the Mount Maunganui beach before breakfast, or settle into a cozy cottage on the edge of a vineyard for a slower pace. The region’s climate makes outdoor living a year-round joy—from sunrise beach walks to twilight picnics with friends. When you’re booking vacation rentals or holiday rentals here, you’re choosing places that are either steps from the sand, perched above gorgeous harbors, or tucked into leafy neighborhoods with easy access to hiking, cycling, and local eats. And if you’re traveling with pets, there are plenty of pet friendly rentals that welcome dogs and cats, so your whole crew can come along for the fun.

In this Bay of Plenty pocket, you’ll find a mix of modern apartment stays, stylish beach houses, and family-friendly holiday homes that feel like home from the moment you unlock the door. The region is tailor-made for active travelers who want to squeeze in as many experiences as possible—surf lessons, coastal hikes, harbor cruises, or a day trip to volcanic thermal parks—without sacrificing a comfortable place to unwind after sunset. For travelers who want to combine social time with a bit of solitude, Bay of Plenty offers both lively night markets and tranquil coves, all within reach of quality vacation rentals and pet friendly rentals.

Destinations to consider for Bay of Plenty holiday rentals

• Mount Maunganui (the Mount) — A classic sun, sea, and sand experience. Easy to reach from Tauranga, this area offers pristine beaches, weekend markets, and a vibrant cafe scene. Vacation rentals here tend to have sea breezes, outdoor spaces for al fresco meals, and proximity to the scenic Mount Maunganui summit track.
• Tauranga — The city hub of the region with a bustling waterfront, marina, and a growing food and wine scene. It’s a prime spot for holiday rentals that offer easy access to ocean activities, boat charters, and city excitement without losing the home-away-from-home vibe.
• Papamoa — A long, sweeping coastline that’s perfect for long beach days, fishing, and family-friendly adventures. Rentals here often feature large decks, BBQ areas, and close proximity to beaches that welcome dogs at certain times, making it ideal for pet friendly stays.
• Whakatāne and Ohope Beach — A gateway to White Island adventures and a more laid-back town atmosphere. The beaches here are a highlight, and the broader area offers kayaking, coastal walks, and wildlife experiences that fit well with weekend escapes and multi-night stays.
• Rotorua and surrounds — The geothermal heart of the Bay of Plenty region. If you’re after a mix of natural hot pools, forest trails, and cultural experiences, Rotorua is a stellar anchor for a vacation rental that doubles as a base for explorers and spa lovers alike.

Pet friendly rentals in Bay of Plenty

Finding pet friendly rentals in this region is straightforward with the right booking partner. Many properties welcome dogs and cats, especially in the more rural and coastal suburbs where pet owners appreciate private yards and safe walking routes. When you search for Bay of Plenty holiday rentals that are pet friendly, you’ll often see features like fenced yards, close proximity to dog-friendly beaches, and easy access to outdoor spaces for play and exercise. Whether you’re traveling with a small pup or a larger hiking buddy, there are options that keep four-legged friends included in the holiday agenda.

• Properties with secure yards and fully fenced sections for safe off-leash play in designated times or areas.
• Beach proximity that allows dogs on certain beaches at certain times, ensuring you can enjoy sunrises and sunsets with your pet by your side.
• Pet friendly apartments and houses with pet-friendly amenities like wipeable floors, outdoor showers for sandy paws, and nearby trails or parks.
• Clear host rules about pets, refundable deposits when required, and listings that highlight local pet services (vets, dog walkers, and dog-friendly cafes).
• Options across Tauranga, Mount Maunganui, Papamoa, and Whakatāne so you can tailor your stay to your itinerary and pace.

Activities and local experiences in the Bay of Plenty

Whether you’re a water lover, a food and wine explorer, or a culture enthusiast, the Bay of Plenty has activities that suit a group trip with friends, or a sunny solo escape with a social loop in the evenings. It’s easy to build a week (or two) of experiences around a comfortable home base and day trips to nearby delights.

• Learn to surf at Mount Maunganui, join a stand-up paddleboard session along Tauranga’s inner harbor, or book a sailing charter from the Tauranga waterfront. If you’re staying near Papamoa, you can combine a beach day with a relaxed oceanfront cafe crawl.
• Coastal walks and hikes: The Mount Maunganui Summit Track offers a rewarding climb with panoramic views. The Tauranga and Katikati coastal trails are perfect for longer group hikes or a relaxed family day. The Kaimai Range nearby provides forest-clad landscapes for a longer nature escape.
• Whakatāne and Ohope: Visiting White Island by boat or helicopter from Whakatāne is a standout day trip. Back on land, you can stroll the Ohope Beach boardwalk, watch surfers, and explore waterfront cafes with friends.
• Rotorua experiences: Soak in natural hot pools, explore bubbling mud pools, and meet Maori culture through a hangi and performance. The Redwoods Treewalk offers a magical walk among towering trees, especially at dusk when the lights come on.
• Cultural and culinary: Tauranga’s farmers’ markets, boutique breweries, and vineyard tours around the Tauranga and surrounding regions create a tasty itinerary. Try local honey, kiwifruit products, and fresh seafood straight from the coast.
• Wildlife and nature: Seal colonies and bird watching along the coastline, plus scenic boat trips to nearby islets, provide relaxed days for nature lovers and photographers alike.
• Family-friendly fun: If you’re traveling with friends who have kids, you’ll appreciate the calm beaches, playgrounds near the coast, and night markets offering crafts, local foods, and live music during warmer months.

Five-day sample itinerary for a Bay of Plenty escape

1. Day 1: Mount Maunganui vibes — Arrive and settle into a pet friendly rental near the Mount. Soak in the sunrise at the beach, enjoy a coastal walk up and around the Mount, and have lunch at a sun-soaked terrace with sea views. In the afternoon, wander the main street shops and grab gelato. For dinner, pick a beachfront restaurant and toast to the start of an epic trip.
2. Day 2: Tauranga waterfront and hot eats — Spend the morning on a boat cruise or kayak along the harbor. Explore the Tauranga waterfront, then sample fresh seafood and local produce at the night markets or a harbor-side cafe. Return to your rental for a relaxed evening with friends, perhaps a sunset BBQ in your backyard or balcony.
3. Day 3: Whakatāne and Ohope Beach — Drive to Whakatāne for a day trip to the coast. Book a White Island tour if the weather cooperates, or explore the Ohope Beach walk and local galleries. Evening dinner in a seaside town restaurant back in your base or a home-cooked meal at your rental with a view of the water.
4. Day 4: Rotorua day trip — Take a geothermal morning in Rotorua: geysers, mud pools, and cultural performances. In the afternoon, enjoy the Redwoods Treewalk or a spa experience. Return to your Bay of Plenty base for sunset and a casual night in, or a local pub crawl if the group is up for it.
5. Day 5: Beach day and departure — Choose your favorite beach for a final morning swim or a long walk. Head to a farmers’ market to pick up fresh local goodies, then check out of your rental with a glossy souvenir bag and a plan to return someday soon.

Booking tips for Bay of Plenty vacation rentals

• Start with a clear idea of your group size and pet needs. Filter searches on searchandstay.com for pet friendly rentals and properties with fenced yards if you’re traveling with dogs.
• Consider proximity to activities you love. If you’re surf-minded, look for places near Mount Maunganui or Papamoa. If geothermal adventures call you, Rotorua-based stays are ideal.
• Check for kid-friendly or family-friendly features if you’re traveling with children. Pool safety, games rooms, and easy beach access can be big wins.
• Look for flexible check-in options and clear cancellation policies—especially if your plans include outdoor activities that are weather-dependent.
• Read host rules about pets and extra deposits. A good pet-friendly rental will outline what is allowed and what isn’t, along with any charges for additional cleaning or damage protection.
• Book with a plan for local experiences. Some hosts can suggest or arrange tours, such as a wine or food tour in Tauranga, a wildlife cruise, or a geothermal day in Rotorua.

Why searchandstay.com for Bay of Plenty accommodations

Searchandstay.com is a trusted resource to discover vacation rentals and holiday rentals in the Bay of Plenty. The platform helps you compare options by location, price, guest capacity, and pet-friendly features, making it easier to find a home that matches your group’s vibe. With a curated selection of properties in Tauranga, Mount Maunganui, Papamoa, Whakatāne, and Rotorua, you can filter for pet friendly rentals, oceanfront stays, or family-friendly retreats. The Bay of Plenty is a popular destination, and having a reliable site to narrow down your choices—especially for pet-friendly accommodations—means you can spend less time searching and more time planning activities with friends or family. For travelers seeking a balance of beach days, adventure, and cultural experiences, searchandstay.com offers a simple, user-friendly way to lock in the perfect Bay of Plenty home base.

Local experiences to plan around your stay

Beyond the obvious beach days, Bay of Plenty offers a blend of outdoor, culinary, and cultural experiences that pair beautifully with vacation rentals. Here are a few ideas to enrich your itinerary and ensure your trip feels seamless from start to finish.

• Sunrise and brunch at Mount Maunganui with a stroll along the beach after. The Mount’s vantage point gives you a great look at the coastline and the glow of early morning light.
• Harbor cruises from Tauranga to explore nearby coves, seals, and water views. End the day with fish and chips on the wharf or a breezy rooftop bar.
• Sunset walks along Ohope Beach and a casual dinner at a beachfront cafe. The long sands are perfect for a late-day wind-down with friends and a dog leash in hand.
• Geothermal adventures in Rotorua: geysers, hot pools, and Maori culture experiences that connect you to the land and its stories.
• White Island day trips from Whakatāne for a volcanic island experience. If weather isn’t suitable for the boat, opt for a scenic helicopter tour for a different view of the coastline.
• Wine and food experiences around the region. Seek out boutique vineyards, orchards, and local markets to taste what the Bay of Plenty has to offer.

Closing notes for your Bay of Plenty escape

Bay of Plenty is made for travelers who want to balance active days with relaxing evenings. The combination of beautiful beaches, friendly towns, geothermal wonders, and a welcoming pet-friendly rental market creates a setting where you can design a trip that truly fits your crew. Whether you’re planning a long weekend with friends or a longer holiday with a four-legged family member in tow, this region delivers the scenery, the vibe, and the memories you’ll want to repeat. When you’re ready to book, searchandstay.com is a practical starting point to find accommodations in the area that align with your needs—from pet friendly rentals to beachfront stays and everything in between.