Last updated July 2026
The Strand is Tauranga’s vibrant waterfront reserve in the heart of the CBD, offering a scenic setting for families, workers and visitors alike. It features restaurants, a playground, tidal steps for water access and bronze sculptures of Hairy Maclary characters. The area provides views across Tauranga Harbour and serves as a popular spot for lunches, evening outings and summer swims. Recent waterfront upgrades have enhanced the green spaces and shared pathways along this historic strip.
Practical Information
| Location | The Strand, Tauranga CBD waterfront |
| Access | Pedestrian friendly with shared zones and boardwalks; vehicle access limited in places |
| Facilities | Restaurants, cafes, playground, tidal steps with bombing platform, public seating |
| Activities | Dining, walking, swimming (summer), viewing sculptures, events |
| Best time to visit | Daytime for families and dining; evenings for atmosphere and lights |
| Parking | Limited street parking; nearby options available with some areas under transformation |
About The Strand
The Strand runs along Tauranga’s historic waterfront and has long been the city’s commercial and social centre. Originally a beach strip known as The Beach or Beach Road, it has undergone multiple reclamations and now forms a key part of the CBD with a mix of heritage buildings and modern amenities.
During the day the reserve attracts families to the playground and waterfront dining options. Workers often use the area for lunch breaks while enjoying harbour views. In summer the tidal steps provide easy access for a refreshing swim in the harbour.
At night The Strand comes alive with restaurant and bar lighting, creating a lively atmosphere for evening meals and social gatherings. The combination of heritage, modern facilities and direct harbour frontage makes it a central hub for both locals and tourists.
Tidal Steps and Waterfront Access
The tidal steps were completed in 2017 as part of the Access to Water project, which aimed to better connect people with Tauranga Harbour. The installation includes 49 metres of tidal stairs, a pier and pontoon, along with a bombing platform for jumping into the water.
A karakia and story about the area, including the Karakia o Mauao, are etched into the steps. These cultural elements become visible or change with the tide levels and were developed with input from local tangata whenua.
Visitors can sit on the steps, enjoy a coffee or meal from nearby outlets, and take in the harbour setting. The project has improved public access to the water while incorporating Māori cultural narratives.
Hairy Maclary Sculptures
Life-sized bronze sculptures of Hairy Maclary and his friends from Lynley Dodd’s children’s books are located along the waterfront. Installed around 2015, the collection features characters including Scarface Claw, Slinky Malinki, Hercules Morse and others, created by sculptor Brigitte Wuest.
The sculptures provide a fun, interactive element for families and children visiting The Strand. They sit right on the waterfront, offering photo opportunities against the harbour backdrop.
History and Cultural Significance
The Strand has been central to Tauranga’s development since the 19th century, with early commercial buildings and connections to Māori history in the area. It forms part of the waterfront that relates to the broader stories of Tauranga Moana.
The Mauao legend is linked to the harbour, describing how the mountain was carried toward the sea and caught by the dawn at its current location. Cultural elements such as the karakia on the tidal steps reflect ongoing connections with local iwi.
Ongoing waterfront transformation projects continue to upgrade the reserve, including new green spaces, playground enhancements and seawall improvements to support ecological values and public use.
What Visitors Often Say
Families appreciate the playground, easy water access and nearby dining options that make for a relaxed day out. Many enjoy the combination of sculptures, harbour views and the lively evening atmosphere with restaurants and bars.
Visitors often note the cultural touches like the etched karakia and the convenient location right in the CBD. The area is praised as a central spot for both quick visits and longer stays with good facilities.
Where to Learn More
Pae Korokī – Tauranga City Libraries: Heritage records and historical photographs of The Strand.
Tauranga City Council: Current information on waterfront projects and public facilities.
Tauranga City Council – Mauao: Details on the Mauao legend and cultural significance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Strand free to visit?
Yes, The Strand reserve and tidal steps are open to the public at no charge.
Are dogs allowed on The Strand?
Dogs are generally permitted on leads in public areas; check current council bylaws for any restrictions.
Is the area wheelchair accessible?
Shared pathways and boardwalks provide good access, though some tidal step areas may have limitations depending on tide levels.
When were the tidal steps built?
The tidal steps opened in 2017 as part of the Access to Water project.
Are there restaurants on The Strand?
Yes, multiple cafes and restaurants line The Strand offering waterfront dining.
Can you swim at The Strand?
Swimming is popular in summer from the tidal steps when conditions allow.
Where are the Hairy Maclary sculptures?
The bronze sculptures are located along the waterfront section of The Strand.
What is the Mauao story?
It is the traditional legend of how the mountain Mauao was carried to the harbour entrance and caught by the dawn.
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