About TECT Park
TECT Park is a unique all-terrain adventure playground in the Bay of Plenty, roughly halfway between Tauranga and Rotorua (www.westernbay.govt.nz ) (www.tauranga.govt.nz ). Covering about 1,650 hectares of farmland and forest (www.westernbay.govt.nz ) (www.tauranga.govt.nz ), it was purchased by the Western Bay and Tauranga councils in 2004 and officially opened to the public in December 2010 (www.westernbay.govt.nz ) (www.tauranga.govt.nz ). The park’s vision – as its own managers describe – was to create a “giant adventure playground” and a “permanent home for big and loud activities” (www.westernbay.govt.nz ) (www.tectpark.co.nz ). In practice, TECT Park blends quiet natural zones with action zones. In one part you can wander ancient pine and native bush tracks (even through the historic 60m Te Rerenga tunnel alive with glowworms (www.westernbay.govt.nz )), take scenic mountain-bike or horse-riding trails, or let your dog off-leash in a meadow. In other areas you’ll find purpose-built facilities for noisier fun – motocross and BMX tracks, gravity-fed mountain-bike runs, airplane and drone fields, clay-target ranges, paintball and airsoft courses, and gravel rally loops (www.tauranga.govt.nz ) (www.westernbay.govt.nz ). Even low-tech hobbies have a corner: beekeepers, dog-trainers and model aircraft clubs all call this place home. The variety is summed up on the official site: “TECT Park is an award-winning *taonga* (treasure) … something for everyone” – from shooters and four-wheel-drivers to pony riders and hikers (www.tectpark.co.nz ) (www.tauranga.govt.nz ).
Several user-run clubs are based at TECT Park. For example, Tauranga’s motorcycle club developed a mini and senior motocross track here, opening it with a ribbon-cutting in 2015 (www.taurangamcc.co.nz ) (www.taurangamcc.co.nz ). Racing now runs one Sunday a month in spring and summer (www.taurangamcc.co.nz ). Nearby, Te Matai Motorsport (the motorsport hub) occupies a 360-ha block for rally, autocross, drifting and 4x4 events (www.tectpark.co.nz ) (www.tmmi.org.nz ). This is also home to the Bay of Plenty’s Radio-Control Car Club (which has built the country’s longest 1/5th car circuit) and a 4WD club track. Shooting sports have their own node: pistol, rifle/deerstalker, clay and paintball ranges. Families enjoy the year-round Adrenalin Forest high-wire adventure course – a multi-level rope and ladder challenge 5–20 metres high, with over 2km of obstacles (www.tectpark.co.nz ). Amidst all this, the park is very hands-off: entry is free (no tickets) and there’s no general admission area. In fact the only fixed indoor “venue” is the small Arrival Centre at the main gate – a classroom-style building seating ~32 people (max 50) with tables, chairs, a monitor, kitchenette and WiFi (www.tectpark.co.nz ). Any large events are staged outdoors on the open fields or trail networks.
What makes TECT Park really special is that it brings together activities you normally wouldn’t see in one place. You could be hiking under native bushone minute and then freefalling from a rope bridge the next. Locals and visitors alike praise its natural beauty and community spirit. The park has won multiple Green Flag Awards (NZ’s top parks accolade) – including the Supreme Award – and even placed in the global People’s Choice top 10 (www.tauranga.govt.nz ) (www.westernbay.govt.nz ). It attracts over 30,000 visitors a year now (www.westernbay.govt.nz ), all drawn by the blend of huge space and varied experiences. Local energy trust TECT (its principal sponsor) notes they’ve put over $5 million into developing the park (www.tauranga.govt.nz ). Between that funding and the volunteer effort of user groups, TECT Park has matured into an award-winning community treasure. In short, it’s not a typical stadium or concert hall – it’s a sprawling outdoor venue and “giant adventure park” in one, reflecting 10+ years of local vision and growth (www.westernbay.govt.nz ) (www.tauranga.govt.nz ).
Events and Programming
Unlike a concert arena, TECT Park’s “events” are mostly community and club based. There aren’t many ticketed shows – instead the calendar is filled with motorsport weekends, club meet-ups and special public festivals. Motorsport enthusiasts will find a full schedule: for example, the Bay of Plenty 4WD Club holds a “Club Run” in the park on the first Sunday of each month (www.tectpark.co.nz ). The Bay of Plenty Radio Control Car Club (BOPRCCC) runs regular races for its 1/5th and 1/8th scale classes, usually on a Sunday each month (www.tectpark.co.nz ) (www.tectpark.co.nz ). Car clubs and clubs like Motorkhana Bay of Plenty hold autocross events on the park’s gravel circuits (often on Saturdays) (www.tectpark.co.nz ) (www.tectpark.co.nz ). There are also rally sprints – weekend endurance drives on forest loops (the park’s 4km “Dual Stage” rally course) appearing in spring dates (www.tectpark.co.nz ). Shooting clubs schedule clay-target shoots or deerstalker competitions most months. And of course Tauranga Motorcycle Club now runs a summer motocross series (previously using Maddix Park) on their new tracks (www.taurangamcc.co.nz ). In short, if you’re into racing, rally or shooting sports, you might find a local competition nearly every month.
On the family side, TECT Park has held large free community festivals. Its signature event to date was the “Ultimate Fun Fest” in Nov 2020 marking the park’s 10th birthday (www.tauranga.govt.nz ). That day was packed from morning till night: morning and afternoon saw a Mud Dog fun run, pony rides, face-painting, pony floats and Santa, plus “have-a-go” demos from the resident clubs (4WD trial, model aircraft, paintball, etc) (www.tauranga.govt.nz ). In the evening the festival kicked off with a laser light show and a big-screen concert re-broadcast of Kiwi legends Six60’s Western Springs show (www.tauranga.govt.nz ). Nearly everyone could attend for free, and special shuttle buses ran from surrounding towns for the event (www.tauranga.govt.nz ). (This fest remains one of the park’s largest public gatherings to date.) Other pop-up events have included charity trail runs or nature tours, and occasional kid-focused fun days in the summer. But by and large the park’s programming is driven by user groups and annual schedules, rather than a fixed concert season.
Tickets and Booking
Most of TECT Park is *open access* – there’s no gate fee or ticket needed for day use. You can drive in and use the trails at any time during park hours (gates are open at normal daytime hours year-round (www.tectpark.co.nz )). If you’re coming for a club event (say a motocross race or clay shoot), there may be a separate entry fee or membership required set by that club – but those are arranged through the clubs themselves, not through a central box office at TECT Park. Even the July–August fireworks, if held, would have separate permit requirements, but none are on record for recent years.
The one exception is the Adventure (Adrenalin) Forest zip-line course, which *does* require booking and a fee. This is a private operation inside the park – you must reserve a time slot online or by phone before arriving. Prices for Adrenalin Forest depend on age and duration (on a typical day a two-hour adult session is around NZ$80–100, children get a discount). Similarly, if you plan to camp or use powered sites, you need to pre-purchase a digital Penny (KiwiCamp) key – this is done via district council outlets, not at the park itself (www.tectpark.co.nz ). Freedom-campers can book up to 3 nights at a time in designated zones (with a self-contained camper van), or apply to tent in specific areas for 1–2 nights (www.tectpark.co.nz ).
In practical terms: there is no TECT Park “box office” or ticket outlet on site. Instead, keep an eye on club and council websites for specific events. For example, Tas for motocross or rally are usually promoted by their clubs or on social media. Park managers typically announce big public events (like the Fun Fest) months in advance on council news feeds. For the everyday visitor, arriving with no booking is fine – but remember if you want toilets, showers or power (via Penny key), you need to buy the key ahead of time (www.tectpark.co.nz ). Otherwise, entry is simply free of charge.
Park Layout and Facilities
TECT Park is organized into distinct zones (quiet versus loud) but not fenced off for different users. The main entrance on SH36 leads into the Arrival Centre area (with a car park, toilets and an electric BBQ) (www.tectpark.co.nz ) (www.tectpark.co.nz ). The Arrival Centre is the only major building – it’s a simple hall (“classroom”) with seating for ~32 and space for meetings or briefings (www.tectpark.co.nz ). All other spaces are open or wooded. Trails and tracks branch out: the Te Rerenga loop is a 3.2km walking track that starts and ends at the Arrival car park (www.westernbay.govt.nz ). The north/central area has forest trails (including the Lions Tree Grove), cycle routes and a groomed off-leash dog exercise zone. The southern area contains the Te Matai Motorsport park (hundreds of hectares fenced for rally, drift, motocross, autocross and 4WD) (www.tectpark.co.nz ) (www.tmmi.org.nz ). Scattered throughout are smaller lots and lots: e.g. the mountain-biking car park (for trails like the 10km Buffalo Girl track), a trailer park for equestrians, and designated Freedom Camping sites with power/water hookups (www.tectpark.co.nz ).
Since there are no fixed spectator stands, “seating” is informal. Small fields and glades serve as gathering points. For any given event, organizers often put out foldable chairs or hay bales. Best seats depend on the activity: near the Arrival Centre, you can pull up to the BBQ or picnic shelters for a view of walkers and kids’ games. On motorsport days, fans stand or sit on ridges overlooking the track loops. There is no grandstand acoustics – sound carries naturally across quiet zones (the only real noise being racing engines in their area). In practice, residents recommend ear protection if you’re close to motorsport racing, and conversely that the quiet forest pockets get virtually no engine noise. (www.tauranga.govt.nz )
Getting There and Parking
TECT Park is accessed by car via State Highway 36 (the Pyes Pa/Ngapouri Road). The main gates are at Ngawaro on Whataroa Road, about 29 km from Tauranga and 27 km from Rotorua (www.tectpark.co.nz ). From Bayfair or Tauranga CBD, drive south on SH36; you’ll see signposts for TECT Park. The park is remote (forest and farmland surrounds) so allow roughly 30–40 minutes from Tauranga. There is little to no nearby public transit: the regional bus that runs Tauranga–Te Puke passes SH36, but no stop at the park entrance. If coming without a car, your only option is to take a taxi/Uber as close as possible (e.g. to the Ngawaro corner) or coordinate a drop-off. For most visitors, driving is easiest.
Parking at TECT Park is generous and free. The main Arrival Centre lot holds dozens of cars and trailers (and horse floats when needed). On busy event days additional parking is set up on the grass beside the road inside the park. There are smaller carparks scattered by trailheads – for example, a lot at the equestrian area, and another beside the mountain bike tracks. Freedom campers should park in the designated camping area near the KiwiCamp facility (www.tectpark.co.nz ). After dark, note that the park’s gates close on a schedule (generally around sunset: summer 9pm, winter 5pm (www.tectpark.co.nz )). Plan your arrival and departure around those times. Also be aware that if you arrive late, the rangers may be gone – there is no 24-hour security checkpoint.
Inside the Park
Inside TECT Park you won’t find turnstiles or pat-down searches – it’s largely self-service. Entry is by the unlocked gate during open hours, and visitors wander at will. Staff presence is minimal except on big event days. You should plan self-sufficiency: pack water, snacks and be prepared for natural conditions. There is no cafe or shop on site. However, the main Arrival Centre provides a few amenities: clean public toilets (wharepaku) under lock-and-key at night, free drinking water taps, picnic tables and an electric BBQ (www.tectpark.co.nz ). The Arrival Centre also offers little comforts – a restroom and Class-A meeting space – and provides WiFi and USB charging if you have a device (it’s the only place you’ll find a power outlet in the park) (www.tectpark.co.nz ). Beyond that, it’s very much bush camp: dispose of your litter in bins (or take it with you), follow posted signs, and watch out for 4WD vehicles and horses on shared trails.
Because the park is wooded and hilly, mobile phone reception was once patchy – but that has improved. In late 2020 a new cell tower was installed on site for safety and connectivity (www.tauranga.govt.nz ). So you should generally have a signal at the Visitor Centre and many outdoor areas. Emergency services (dial 111) can reach you by describing your approximate location on SH36 – but a good practice is to tell someone your plans before heading out, just in case. As for security, the safest rule is simple: keep valuables out of sight in your vehicle, lock the car, and don’t leave pets unattended (dogs are allowed but on leash in camping zones (www.tectpark.co.nz )). There is no coat-check or baggage facility: all gear stays with you.
Nearby Amenities
Though TECT Park itself is amid bush and farmland, civilisation isn’t far. The closest town is Katikati (about 20 km north on SH2), which has supermarkets, cafes and a handful of casual restaurants. Te Puke (30 km southwest) also offers shops, takeaway and family pubs. If you’re needing a coffee or meal before a visit, Katikati has a clustered “Main Street” of restaurants (cafés, pizza, Thai, Indian, BBQ, etc.). Newer suburban areas like Papamoa and Bethlehem (off SH2) are a similar driving time from the park’s entrance. Hotels and motels are not at the park itself – for overnight stays most people turn to Tauranga city (30–40 km north) or local motels. For example, there are several lodges and B&Bs in Katikati, plus a handful of motels in Te Puke. Tauranga has every chain motel and hotel you can imagine, plus late-night dining and bars.
If you’re camping in the park, remember services close early in rural NZ. Petrol stations and shops near the park have limited hours (many close by 8 pm), and there is no late-night public transport from Ngawaro – plan a lift or book a taxi in advance for late departures. After an outdoor day, a popular pattern is to grab dinner in town (many locals eat out in Katikati or Papamoa and save the campsite breakfast for the next morning). Lastly, be aware that cell coverage extends to villages around the park, so Google Maps and ride-share apps generally work within a few kilometres of the park entrance but may struggle deeper in the forest.
What Makes This Venue Special
TECT Park stands out because of its sheer scope and mix of activities. It is arguably the most ambitious multi-sport park in New Zealand, combining forest recreation, extreme motorsport, shooting ranges and even education all in one place. The history is part of its charm: for instance, the Te Rerenga tunnel on a walking track was hand-dug in the mid-20th century to reroute a stream under the road (www.westernbay.govt.nz ), and today it’s famous for its glowworms. Volunteer projects like the Lions Tree Grove (planting thousands of native trees since 2012 in a former pine plantation) give it an evolving story (www.sunlive.co.nz ). In architecture and landscape, there’s nothing flashy (no grandstands or neon marquees). Instead, its “special” character is natural: big open fields melting into bush, dotted with the odd adventure feature (like the wooden Adrenalin towers or the rutted 4x4 course).
Culturally, TECT Park has become a point of pride. In 2020 local leaders celebrated a huge 10th anniversary festival here (www.tauranga.govt.nz ), and by then the park had earned five national Green Flag awards (making it “supreme” among NZ parks) (www.tauranga.govt.nz ). It also nurtures local traditions – for example, the monthly 4WD run or mud-fun run on New Year’s Day – that locals now look forward to. Artists and marketers sometimes resist calling it a “concert park,” but community events have happened here (movie nights, laser shows, outdoor theater). Most performers, however, know it as a wild place to challenge yourself rather than a choir venue. All in all, the romance of TECT Park is in its authenticity: it’s a place built by councils and clubs and everyday people working together, more like a free-ranging national park than a commercial stadium. People love it for that pure Kiwi mix of outdoors, adventure and community spirit (www.tectpark.co.nz ) (www.tauranga.govt.nz ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The park is open to all ability levels, but bear in mind it’s essentially rugged forest and farmland. The Arrival Centre and main car park are flat and have paved access, but most trails are unsealed dirt or boardwalks. Wheelchairs and strollers can manage some areas (the start of Te Rerenga, Lions Tree Grove) but not steep or muddy sections (www.westernbay.govt.nz ). If you rely on mobility aids, plan to stay near the entrance loop. NZ’s disability standards aren’t explicitly enforced here, but park managers do provide an accessible toilet in the Arrival Centre, and the BBQ area is flat with picnic tables that can welcome all.
What to Bring: Pack like for the bush. Essential gear includes sturdy closed shoes (dress shoes or sandals are not recommended) – one ranger’s guide even notes “good footwear is essential” for the slippery trail tunnel (www.westernbay.govt.nz ). Bring layers: even sunny days can be cool under the canopy, and a light rain jacket in case the weather changes. A torch or headlamp is wise if you plan to explore the Te Rerenga tunnel or any trails after dusk. Since this is a remote park, always carry water (there are a few taps but not in deep bush) and snacks. In summer, sun protection (hat/sunscreen) is advisable; in winter you might want an extra jacket. Don’t forget bug spray – bush midges can appear during long hikes. Also bring a park map or download one (signage is good but GPS is handy in rolling hills). Finally, if visiting a club event, bring club membership ID or entry forms as required (check the organizing club’s website beforehand).
Rules & Safety: Observe all park rules and signs. Notably, no hunting is permitted anywhere (www.tectpark.co.nz ) (www.tauranga.govt.nz ). Barbecue only in the provided electric BBQ units (open fires are banned to prevent wildfires). Keep dogs under control: most of the park is allow off-leash exercise, but if you camp or if signs say “dogs on leash,” do so (www.tectpark.co.nz ). Clean up after your pet. If you’re driving, stick to formed tracks. The park’s roads are shared with mountain bikers, riders and walkers – expect blind corners and uneven surfaces. Drive carefully, especially around blind trailheads. Electrical vehicles and scooters should be battery powered; we do not recommend petrol scooters or bikes anywhere.
Common Pitfalls: The biggest mistake is underestimating the distance. People often arrive thinking it’s “just a short walk,” only to find the park is huge. Check opening hours (gates lock at sunset (www.tectpark.co.nz )) and allow plenty of time to exit. Another tip: cell phones now generally get reception near the centre (thanks to a 2020 cell tower (www.tauranga.govt.nz )), but signal may drop on deeper trails – download offline maps if relying on GPS. If camping, remember you must book the Penny digital key before you arrive (www.tectpark.co.nz ) – keys are not sold at the park gate. Lastly, the weather can change fast at higher elevations. Keep an eye on rain or winds; trails can become muddy and slippery (especially the tunnel trail) (www.westernbay.govt.nz ), so allow extra time, and always tell someone your plans when venturing out.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I buy tickets to events at TECT Park?
Mode: TECT Park itself generally has free entry and no central ticket office. Clubs run their own events (race meets, shoots, etc.) and handle any fees. The only time you pre-pay directly is for the Adrenalin Forest, which uses its own ticketing. In practice, check the hosting club’s website or social pages for that event’s entry details.
What is the park’s capacity – how many people can fit here?
The park is enormous (1,650 ha), so there’s no fixed “audience capacity.” In theory thousands of people can be on site at once if spread across the grounds. Its biggest events (like the 10th birthday Fun Fest) drew thousands, with buses running from surrounding towns (www.tauranga.govt.nz ). For everyday use, think of it as an open-access reserve – you can usually find quiet spots if one area is busy. Larger events may have recommended attendance limits (set by the organizer) but no ticket check is done at the gate.
Can I buy tickets at the box office or at the gate?
There is no box office at TECT Park. Gate entry is free. If an event is ticketed, tickets would be sold online or at the event organiser’s venue beforehand (e.g. via a club or event website). For example, Adrenalin Forest has an online booking system for its courses; general park access remains free and unticketed (www.tectpark.co.nz ).
Should I book in advance or can I just show up?
Most of the park is drop-in friendly. You can just drive in during operating hours (see park hours below) without booking holidays. Only special activities need pre-booking: the paid Adrenalin Forest course must be reserved, and long-term campers must purchase a Penny key first. Weekend visitors should check for any advertised event closures or club meets on the park website, but otherwise no advance ticketing is needed for general entry.
When is the best time to buy tickets for popular shows?
Popular or large events at TECT Park are rare. If one comes up (like the 2020 birthday festival), information is typically announced months in advance by Western Bay or Tauranga councils. There is no fixed “ticket sale date.” For Adrenalin Forest sessions, book well in advance especially on weekends or school holidays, as slots can sell out quickly. Otherwise, for motorsport meets or track days you usually just register with the club on or before the event date.
How much do tickets cost (pricing tiers)?
Event pricing varies widely by activity. Most user-group events (car races, shooting comps) are either free or charge a modest club entry fee (often under $20). The Adrenalin Forest high ropes course is priced by session – roughly NZ$80–100 for an adult’s two-hour game. Park entry and parking are always free. Freedom camping requires buying a Penny key (around a few dollars) for showers and power – details at council offices (www.tectpark.co.nz ). Always check the specific event or activity website for exact costs.
Where should I sit or watch at TECT Park?
Since there are no fixed stands, “best seats” depend on the activity. For family areas or walking trails, any flat grassy spot or picnic table works. For motorsport or RC car races, spectators often stand on gentle slopes or behind safety fences along a track. The Arrival Centre deck is nice for watching the lower park area. If it’s a big event, bring fold-up chairs or blankets so you can set up on the hilltops overlooking the action. In general, pick a vantage point upwind (to avoid dust) and where you can hear announcements. There are no bad views – it’s open countryside.
What can and can’t I bring inside TECT Park?
Bring the usual outdoor gear: sturdy shoes, sunblock, water, insect repellent and picnic supplies. Barbecues are allowed only on the provided electric grill at the Arrival Centre (www.tectpark.co.nz ). Campfires (open flames) are not permitted. There is no facility for storing gear or checking coats – keep all valuables with you or in your locked car. Drone use, bicycles and cameras are generally fine (watch for safety around off-road vehicles). Most importantly, respect the rules: do not engage in hunting or firearms outside of the approved ranges (www.westernbay.govt.nz ) (www.tauranga.govt.nz ), and keep dogs under control (leashed in camping areas). Check for any “no go” zones on signboards (some club ranges may be fenced off).
How does parking work, and how much does it cost?
Parking is free. There’s a large car park at the Arrival Centre (nearest the turn-off from SH36) and smaller lots by trailheads and paddocks. Motorhomes and trailers are welcome – several wide spots are available. If you’re camping overnight, use the designated camper parking and pay (via Penny key) for power/showers (www.tectpark.co.nz ). When leaving after hours, just lock your vehicle and exit before gates close (they typically lock around 9pm in summer, 5pm in winter (www.tectpark.co.nz )).
What forms of public transit can I use?
Public transit options are very limited. The regional bus network runs along SH36 between Tauranga and Te Puke, but stops are many kilometres from the park entrance – there’s no direct bus into TECT Park. The best approach is by private car or organized shuttle. Event organizers occasionally run charter buses for big events (as in 2020’s Fun Fest (www.tauranga.govt.nz )). Athletically minded visitors may bike in along SH36, but be cautious: shoulders are narrow and traffic can be fast. In short, plan on driving or arranging a lift.
Are there any age or dress restrictions?
There is no formal dress code – casual outdoor gear is appropriate. Closed shoes (sneakers or boots) are strongly recommended due to uneven trails. For some activities, safety equipment is required: helmets for the Adrenalin Forest or motocross track, eye and ear protection on shooting ranges. Children are welcome, but some areas have age limits (for example the Adrenalin Forest often has a 5+ age minimum and a 1.2m rider height minimum). Check each activity: most organiser will state any age/height rules in their booking info.
How accessible is TECT Park for disabled visitors?
The park makes some accommodations but is mostly natural terrain. The Arrival Centre and main toilets are wheelchair-accessible, and the main car park is paved. The first part of the Te Rerenga loop is fairly level, but then it involves stairs and uneven surfaces (www.westernbay.govt.nz ). Most trail and backcountry areas are not fully accessible (they are gravel or pine-needle paths). If you use a mobility aid, plan to stick to the entrance area, picnics, or the broad leisure trails. Group organisers sometimes will prepare a short flat loop if needed. Always call or email park staff ([email protected] ) about your needs; they can advise which parts of the park are easiest to reach.
Are there food, drinks, or merchandise on site?
No. TECT Park has no shops or food stands. There is a public electric BBQ and picnic tables by the Arrival Centre (www.tectpark.co.nz ), but you must bring your own food and drinks. (Ice chests and bahaniline/fz water jugs are handy.) Clubs may sometimes sell snacks or drinks at their events, but don’t count on it. In practice, plan to eat before or after in nearby towns (Katikati or Te Puke) or bring a full picnic. There are also no official merchandise outlets – the only "souvnirs" are what local clubs might sell at their stalls (like event T-shirts). Be self-sufficient with drinks and snacks.
What are the park’s rules and regulations?
The key rules are: no hunting; observe speed limits on shared tracks; no open fires (electric BBQ only); stay on marked roads/trails; leash rules for dogs (dogs off leash only in designated exercise areas, otherwise on leash) (www.tectpark.co.nz ); and take all rubbish with you or dispose of it properly. Follow all warning signs at club-run events (e.g. don’t wander into a marked shooting range). Alcohol is not banned, but public drinking should be sensible and only in non-racing areas (and remember driving rules if you’re at an event). Security is minimal – the park locks its gates at night, so don’t plan to linger after dark. Finally, check the park’s Alerts page or Facebook in case any areas are closed (for instance, logging roads or special event setups may require temporary closure).
When should I arrive and how long will it take?
It’s best to arrive at least 20–30 minutes before your planned activity. From Tauranga city the drive takes around 30 minutes; from Rotorua roughly the same. If you have children or plan to explore, add time for parking and getting gear settled. Park rules allow entry as early as 7am (summer) or 8am (winter) (www.tectpark.co.nz ). If you’re camping, you can arrive well before an event starts. Remember gates will be locked in the evening, so aim to finish by sunset (gates auto-lock around 9pm summer, 5pm winter (www.tectpark.co.nz )). In all cases, check the forecast and road alerts – heavy rain can make gravel roads slow or muddy, so allow extra driving time in bad weather.
Can I camp or park overnight?
Yes, TECT Park allows freedom camping in designated areas for certified self-contained vehicles (www.tectpark.co.nz ). Camping in tents is also possible but requires permission from park staff. The park has one main camping zone with power and water (Penny key needed for showers and electricity (www.tectpark.co.nz )) and an equestrian carpark where motorhomes may stay up to 3 nights per month. Book your Penny digital key *before* arrival (sold through council outlets, not onsite). Generators are usually permitted only during daylight hours, and you must be fully self-sufficient (carry out all rubbish). Without a key, overnight parking in the main area is prohibited to protect the grounds.
