Tauranga City Council’s ‘Summer in our city centre’ initiative is back for another year, bringing a range of fun and exciting free activities for everyone to enjoy.  

Organised by Tauranga City Council and supported by Downtown Tauranga, the events will generate a buzz of ongoing activity in the city centre which the community can look forward to. From morning pilates and yoga, movies at dusk, markets, light installations, a bomb competition, family activities and more.  

General Manager of City Development & Partnerships Gareth Wallis says the initiative is part of Council’s commitment to supporting the city centre while its transformation is underway.   

“Our city centre is on the verge of an exciting revitalisation, with improvements along the waterfront already underway and construction of the civic precinct – Te Manawataki o Te Papa – set to begin at the start of next year.  

“The activities and events planned for this summer are a great way to instantly inject some more vibrancy into the area and give people a taste of what they can expect in the future.”

The community need to continue showing support to the local businesses in the city centre, to celebrate a summer of fun, says Gareth.

“We encourage everyone to visit the city centre this summer with their friends and whānau, and enjoy making memories together while taking part in the range of events on offer.” 

“This year’s packed schedule of events is also an opportunity to come and witness the transformation in action and see the progress already being made.” 

Tauranga City Council brings back this year the ‘Tauranga Moana Bomb Comp’ to be held on the waterfront on Saturday, December 16, and the ‘Shapes of Summer’ lighting exhibition that will come to life along The Strand from December 20 until January 31.

Also coming to the waterfront this year is the Little Big Markets, held one Sunday every month from December to March. The first market will be on Sunday, December 10, just in time for Christmas shopping. 

For families looking for something different to do at the weekend, there will be ‘pocket-sized play’ says Gareth, with fun activities for the kids to enjoy every Saturday over summer in Red Square. 

“In addition to the free events, there will also be national festivals and concerts bringing the city centre to life.” 

“With In Bloom this weekend, L.A.B and Sublime with Rome, and A Summer's Day Live in December; followed by Bay Dreams North and One Love in early 2024 – the city will be the place to be this summer”, says Gareth.

Tauranga Moana Bomb Comp 

This year’s Tauranga Moana Bomb Comp is open to people aged 10 and older, with Hads Te Huia from Bomblife New Zealand hosting and judging the competition, says Gareth. 

“After drawing a big crowd last year, we’re excited to bring back the Tauranga Moana Bomb Comp and see who will take out this year’s champion prize.”

“We’re encouraging kids and adults to register and start perfecting their manu and staples now, so they can challenge their mates and family members on the day. 

“I’m sure we’re in for an entertaining display, and there will be other activities happening at the same time for those of us not up for making a splash.” 

To keep up to date with what’s happening in our city centre over summer head to www.mytauranga.co.nz/citycentre.

Free events on next week:  

Wednesday 22 November, 7.15am – Morning Pilates on the waterfront with The Pilates Fix, held fortnightly on Wednesday mornings.

Thursday 23 November, 12.15pm – Lunchtime yoga on the waterfront with House of Yoga, held fortnightly on Thursday lunchtime.

Friday 24 November, 6.30pm – Night Owl Cinema on the waterfront showing Secret Life of Pets 2 ,held fortnightly on Friday evenings.