Mount Maunganui is a town located on a peninsula to the north of Tauranga in New Zealand's North Island. it is also the name of the extinct volcanic cone which rises above the town (which is now officially known by its Maori name Mauao ). It is colloquially known in New Zealand simply as The Mount. The peninsula has developed from a sand bar, and is still very sandy.
The town of Mount Maunganui is a coastal resort with some apartment blocks, and a major port is located on the western (harbour) side. It is also well-known for the quality of its surfing conditions, though parts of the beach are notoriously dangerous. It is regarded by many as a northern suburb of the rapidly growing city of Tauranga, which just to the south. A harbour bridge was opened in 1988 bringing the two communities even closer together.
The conical headland which gives the town its name is 230 metres in height, and dominates the mostly flat surrounding countryside.
The Mount is a firm favourite with holiday makers and others wishing to retire. It has many activities and its salt water pool at the end of Pilot Bay provides an excellent opportunity to unwind and relax before travelling further afield.
Population (2001 census): 30,387
