Katikati accommodation from NZ$98

This picturesque town, right alongside the Uretara Stream, is affectionately known as "The Mural Town" because there are over 44 murals in the main streets, depicting the area's heritage. The murals were unveiled individually since 1991, in addition to many sculptures, and illustrate the creativity of the town's locals. Another outward expression of local creativity is the Katikati Haiku Pathway, where beautiful Haiku poems can be read on engraved stones all the way along the walkway. Other than those in Japan itself, this is the largest collection of Haiku stones in the world!

Love getting back to nature? Well if you do, then you’ll love the variety of natural attractions that can be found in Katikati. First of all, there's the Uretara Estuary & Yeoman Walkway. Avid bird watchers should definitely take a camera when walking along this walkway, aptly named the "the bird walk". A visit to the Katikati Bird Gardens is also a must. You'll see many different kinds of birds in the wetland area, around the beautiful flowers that bloom all year round.

More of a beach bum than a garden guru? Well with three beaches to chose from you’ll be spoilt for choice. There's Anzac Bay, perfect for swimming, with beautiful picnic spots. It's also ideal for boating and fishing. Anzac Bay’s name was inspired by it’s unique shape, which looks like Gallipoli, and it was changed from "St George's Bay" to honour the soldiers during the war. Another great beach in the area is Ongare Point, which provides a southern view of Katikati along with barbeques and picnic tables. The third, and perhaps most popular, beach in the area is Shelly Bay, which is another safe swimming beach with picnic spots. You can also go fishing and/or bushwalking from here.

If you're in the mood to explore Katikati's surrounding regions, Tauranga is the nearest city. Take the 36km drive and wander around the markets, art galleries and shops. Or, spend a couple of hours being pampered in one of the spas. Then, take a stroll along the beach at the famous Tauranga Harbour.

When travelling to Katikati, you've got two options. You can fly into Rotorua, which is 110km away, or you can fly to Hamilton, which is 120km away. Whichever one you choose, you'll need to keep in mind that Katikati's public transportation system isn't great, so you might want to hire a car at the airport. If you'd like to go the Rotorua route, check out these cheap flights. Otherwise, take advantage of these cheap flights to Hamilton.

For an incredible holiday, surrounded by natural and painted beauty in "The Mural Town", book your Katikati accommodation now.