The peninsula is bounded by the Waikareao Estuary, including Motupae Island, Te Awanui (Tauranga Harbour) and Matua Saltmarsh.
The name Ōtūmoetai translates to the place where the tide stands still as if asleep.
This popular area is well placed to support growth because its central location, proximity to the water, green spaces, and commercial/retail centres make it a great place to live. It already has much of the necessary infrastructure in place, including schools and transport links and has beautiful parks.