Tauranga and the Bay of Plenty is the greatest place to live, and to visit, in New Zealand.

Boasting one of the sunniest climates in New Zealand, the Bay of Plenty has beautiful beaches and harbours and some of the best views anywhere.

PHOTOS: Check out photos of the Bay of Plenty here

And the best thing is, whether you're after adventure or indulgence, or a cruisey beach lifestyle, Tauranga and the Bay of Plenty has it covered.

And do we have some history!

Three of the seven waka (canoe) that formed the original migration of Maori to Aotearoa (New Zealand) arrived in the Bay of Plenty.

The Bay of Plenty was given its name by Captain James Cook while circumnavigating New Zealand in 1769. He named it because of its rich growing areas and resources, and the generous people.

And nothing has changed today.

Across the Bay are some of the best surf beaches. From Waihi Beach in the north to Whakatane in the south.

Plus we are home to some of the best water activities.

On land we have many parks and reserves and a number of great walking tracks.

Whether you want to just relax and do nothing, or go completely mad, the Bay of Plenty has everything you could ever want do. Or not do!

There is plenty going on here!

By Grayson Ottaway - Newstalk ZB's Tauranga reporter

Photo: Tourism Bay of Plenty

What do you love about the Bay of Plenty? Email your stories and pictures to [email protected]