The Most Expensive Suburbs in Tauranga (2024)
Tauranga, the vibrant coastal city in the Bay of Plenty, has been steadily growing in popularity as a place to live and invest. With its stunning beaches, laid-back lifestyle, and thriving economy, it’s no wonder that more and more people are choosing to call Tauranga home. But with so many diverse suburbs to choose from, how do you decide which one is right for you? This guide will explore some of Tauranga’s top suburbs, highlighting their key features and what makes them stand out.
Tauriko
Median Price:$1.71m

Tauriko is another high-end suburb in Tauranga, with an average house price of approximately $1.14 million. Known for its spacious lifestyle properties and large sections, Tauriko offers a more rural feel while still being close to the city centre.
Key Features:
- Spacious lifestyle properties
- Large sections (average land size about 4000sq m)
- Rural atmosphere with city proximity
- Modern amenities and new developments
- Growing commercial and industrial areas
Bethlehem: The Growing Hub
Median Price: $1.09m

Bethlehem, located in the northwest of Tauranga, has seen significant development in recent years, transforming from a rural area to a thriving suburban hub.
Key features:
- Modern housing developments
- Excellent shopping facilities, including Bethlehem Town Centre
- Good schools and recreational facilities
- Easy access to State Highway 2
With its mix of new homes and established properties, Bethlehem appeals to a wide range of residents, from young families to retirees.
Mount Maunganui: The Coastal Gem
Median Price: $1.07m

Topping the list of Tauranga’s most desirable suburbs is Mount Maunganui, often simply called “The Mount”. This peninsula suburb is renowned for its beautiful beaches, vibrant atmosphere, and iconic landmark, Mauao (Mount Maunganui).
Key features:
- World-class beaches perfect for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing
- Bustling cafe and restaurant scene
- Excellent walking and hiking trails
- Mix of luxury apartments and character homes
The Mount’s popularity is reflected in its property values, it remains a highly sought-after location for both residents and investors due to its unbeatable lifestyle and strong rental market. Oceanbeach Road, located in Mount Maunganui, is particularly notable for its high property prices. In 2023, several properties on this street sold for between $5.6 million and $7.51 million, making it one of the most expensive streets in the Tauranga region.
Pyes Pa: The New Frontier
Median Price: $1.03m

Pyes Pa, located on the southern outskirts of Tauranga, is one of the city’s newest and fastest-growing suburbs.
Key features:
- Modern housing developments
- Affordable options for first-home buyers
- New schools and community facilities
- Close to countryside and outdoor recreation areas
With its new infrastructure and growing community, Pyes Pa is attracting many young families and professionals looking for modern living options.
Matua: The Waterfront Wonder
Median Price: $1.02m

Matua is a picturesque suburb known for its stunning waterfront properties and family-friendly atmosphere.
Key features:
- Beautiful waterfront homes and parks
- Strong community feel
- Excellent schools, including Matua Primary
- Close to Tauranga’s CBD
While Matua’s property values are on the higher end, its desirable location and lifestyle offerings make it a popular choice for those who can afford it.
Papamoa Beach: The Family-Friendly Coastal Suburb
Median Price: $975k

Just down the coast from Mount Maunganui lies Papamoa, Tauranga’s largest and fastest-growing suburb. Known for its long stretches of pristine beach and family-friendly atmosphere, Papamoa is becoming increasingly popular with young families and first-home buyers.
Key features:
- Affordable housing options compared to Mount Maunganui
- Excellent schools and community facilities
- Growing retail and dining precinct
- Easy access to beautiful beaches
With its mix of new developments and established neighbourhoods, Papamoa offers something for everyone. The suburb’s growth potential makes it an attractive option for investors as well.
Otumoetai: The Established Favourite
Median Price: $905k

Otumoetai is one of Tauranga’s most established and popular suburbs, known for its tree-lined streets, quality schools, and proximity to the city centre.
Key features:
- Mix of character homes and modern properties
- Excellent schools, including Otumoetai College
- Beautiful parks and reserves
- Close to Tauranga’s CBD
While property values in Otumoetai have seen slower growth compared to some other suburbs (with a -8.12% growth rate over the past 24 months), its enduring popularity and prime location make it a solid choice for both families and professionals.
Welcome Bay: The Affordable Option
Median price: $830k

For those seeking a more affordable entry into the Tauranga property market, Welcome Bay offers excellent value.
Key features:
- More affordable housing options
- Growing community with new developments
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including the Welcome Bay Estuary
- Good schools, including Selwyn Ridge Primary
Welcome Bay’s affordability and potential for growth make it an attractive option for first-home buyers and investors alike.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Suburb
When deciding on the best suburb for you in Tauranga, consider the following factors:
- Budget: Property values vary significantly across Tauranga’s suburbs. Determine your budget and look for areas that offer the best value for your money.
- Lifestyle preferences: Do you prefer a beachside lifestyle, or are you looking for a more suburban feel? Consider what’s important to you in terms of daily living.
- Commute times: If you’re working in Tauranga’s CBD or other specific locations, consider the commute times from different suburbs.
- Schools: If you have children or are planning to, research the school zones and quality of education in different areas.
- Future development: Look into planned infrastructure projects and developments that might affect property values and lifestyle in the future.
- Community feel: Visit the suburbs you’re interested in at different times of the day to get a feel for the community and atmosphere.
Tauranga offers a diverse range of suburbs, each with its unique charm and appeal. Whether you’re seeking a beachside lifestyle, a family-friendly neighbourhood, or an affordable first home, there’s a suburb in Tauranga to suit your needs.
Remember, while this guide provides an overview of some of Tauranga’s top suburbs, it’s always a good idea to spend time exploring the areas yourself. Talk to locals, visit at different times of the day, and consult with real estate professionals to get a comprehensive understanding of each suburb.
As Tauranga continues to grow and develop, its suburbs are likely to evolve, potentially creating new hotspots and investment opportunities. Staying informed about local developments and market trends will help you make the best decision for your living or investment needs in this vibrant coastal city.