Top Tauranga Adventure Tours

Explore two of the Coromandel’s most iconic islands with exclusive guided access into these protected sanctuaries. Your trip will begin by boat, cruising past the famous Whangamatā Bar surf break, before anchoring at Hauturu (Clark Island). A short climb up Nature's Staircase is rewarded with ocean views along the eco-trail. The adventure continues with an optional, guide-led entry into Whenuakura Wildlife Sanctuary (Donut Island). Floating your way into the hidden lagoon is an experience unlike anything else in New Zealand.

Experience the magic of the Bay of Plenty on this evening glow-worm kayak tour of Tauranga’s Lake McLaren. Avoid getting lost as day turns to night by kayaking with a guide. Marvel at the bright green glow worms clinging to the towering cliffs and gain insight into the life cycle of these fascinating creatures.

Make the most of a short time on land with a handy shore excursion from the cruise port at Mt. Maunganui to geothermal Rotorua. Skip the big, impersonal group tours in favor of an intimate small-group tour. In Rotorua, spend the day at Te Puia, a park full of natural geothermal attractions, including the enormous Pohutu Geyser. Round-trip port transfers ensure you don’t get lost, or miss the boat.

This half-day shore excursion from Tauranga offers a relaxed tour of the Bay of Plenty’s highlights, including fresh kiwifruit and manuka honey tastings. Travel through scenic farmland and native rainforest in McLaren Falls Park, visit historic sites such as Gate Pa Memorial Reserve, and enjoy hokey pokey-flavored ice cream. The tour includes round-trip port transfers and a stop at a cottage cafe for a freshly baked muffin and coffee.

Visit the authentic Whakarewarewa Living Maori Village in the geothermal region of Rotorua on our full-day excursion which includes a guided tour, cultural concert and a light lunch. A Maori villager will guide you through the village, explaining how they make use of the harsh geothermal environment to their advantage. The famous Pohutu geyser can also be viewed from a safe distance as it erupts naturally during the day. Walk among the natural geothermal springs and steaming lakes, to see how your lunch is cooked in the traditional Hangi method. You will also enjoy a 30-minute Maori cultural performance of singing, dancing and warrior demonstrations, including the famous Haka. You tour also includes visits to Rotorua Government Gardens and other highlights of Rotorua, passing by 2 beautiful lakes, forests, kiwifruit orchards and the stunning coastline and beaches of Mount Maunganui. Please note that the tour start time will be confirmed when your booking is accepted.

See the highlights of Rotorua on a full-day shore excursion from Tauranga. Travel to one of New Zealand’s most famous places, Rotorua. Spend the day exploring the otherworldly geothermal landscapes, visiting the Pohutu Geyser at Whakarewarewa, towering redwood trees, and the beautifully manicured Government Gardens. Also receive a traditional welcome at a Māori cultural village, and more. Guaranteed return to your ship at the end of the day.

Pass by kiwifruit orchards and lakes as we drive you to the nearby town of Rotorua. Learn about the real New Zealand as we explore the hinterland in a small group. Visit The amazing Wai-o-Tapu Thermal Wonderland-New Zealand's best geothermal experience! Be guided through this dramatic and unique park and witness the Lady Knox Geyser. Buy your lunch at the cafe here- "hangi" pasties recommended! Next we visit a secret spot where you will witness the best boiling mud pools in NZ. Next you choose between 2 locations: 1. The awe-inspiring Redwood Forest; Experience the cool and calm created by this unique ecosystem, either on the ground, or by upgrading to the Canopy Treetop Walk: Traversing the swing bridges and walkways high in the forest 2. For those who want something a bit more luxurious, there is also the option to take time out in a private forest hot tub (extra charge), complete with drinks on tap! Enjoy tasting kiwifruit, NZ sweets, brownie and cool drinks along the way.

If dramatic views, stunning gardens, quirky sculptures and tasty food is your vibe, this is the tour for you! No worries about getting back to port on time, you are seeing the best this area has to offer without venturing too far afield.

Soar over the stunning Coromandel Peninsula on this scenic helicopter flight, capturing breathtaking views of secluded beaches and vibrant townships like Whangamata and Pauanui. Land near the iconic Cathedral Cove, offering exclusive photo opportunities and a chance to explore the beautiful remote beach. This two-hour journey promises an unforgettable aerial perspective of New Zealand's natural beauty, guided by an experienced pilot who shares local insights throughout the flight. - Scenic helicopter flight from Tauranga to Cathedral Cove - Approximate duration of 2 hours with 2 landings included - Exclusive access to stunning views and photo opportunities - Minimum of two passengers required for booking

Experience the unique and special natural beauty of Rotorua, the geothermal hot spot of New Zealand, just 1 hour's drive from Tauranga. Learn about the geothermal features and its use by the Maori people, the first to settle in New Zealand over 800 years ago. Entry is not included to the private geothermal reserves, but we do see boiling mud pools, crystal clear bubbling hot springs and volcanic lakes. Relax at the foot bathing pools in Kuirau Park, (towels provided) after a short walk to see the bubbling mud and steaming lakes. Whakarewarewa Village is our stop for a snack lunch, here you can take a peek at the village (entry not incl.) before our final stop, the Redwoods Forrest. Here we take a short, guided tour through a purpose-built Glow Worm Cave, then a walk among the treetops on a network of easy-to-use rope swing bridges, with access by a gentle spiral ramp, no steps are needed. The tour start time will be confirmed when your booking is accepted by us.

Discover the prestigious food and drink purveyors of Tauranga and Karangahake when your ship pulls into port. Sip and savor a diverse array of tastings and two award-winning wineries. This shore excursion includes pickup and drop-off by minivan.

Take in Tauranga and Mount Maunganui’s scenic views on this 2-hour city sightseeing coach tour. Enjoy a scenic drive around the city, driving over the Harbour Bridge and checking out tourist hotspots like the Elms Mission House and Old Post Office, before heading to the Minden Lookout to snap photos of the Coromandel and White Island.

Planning a day out that keeps everyone entertained can be a challenge. This all-access pass to Waimarino Adventure Park in Tauranga makes it easy, bringing a wide range of water-based activities together in one place. Enjoy unlimited use of the park’s rides, slides, and floating obstacles, bounce on the water trampoline, test your balance on the climbing wall, swing through the air on the Tarzan rope, or challenge friends on the gladiator platform.

When your cruise ship docks in Tauranga, explore New Zealand’s natural and cultural heritage on a private shore excursion to Rotorua. Discover boiling mud pools and spurting geysers on a walk through Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve, learn about Māori customs at Te Puia Māori Arts and Crafts Institute, and spot the elusive kiwi bird at the kiwi house. Return to Tauranga in time to re-board your cruise ship.

Make the most of your time onshore in Tauranga on a half-day tour, offered in season (October–April). Visit beautiful beaches, orchards, historical landmarks, and more as you listen to engaging commentary from your guide about the history and culture of the region. You'll even get to sample local produce such as Manuka honey, kiwifruit, and avocados.

When your cruise ship docks in the Port of Tauranga, explore Rotorua, Te Puia, and the surrounding countryside, and see the best of the North Island’s geothermal landscapes with ease. With round-trip travel from the Port of Tauranga included, hit top attractions including the Government Gardens, Mt. Maunganui, and the Pohutu geyser. Along the way, watch a traditional Maori cultural performance, and learn of New Zealand’s rich native culture and heritage.

Kayak to the iconic Whenuakura Island, also known as Donut Island, on this guided adventure. Paddle through crystal-clear waters as you explore the stunning lagoon and learn about the unique wildlife sanctuary. With expert guides leading the way, discover hidden bays and breathtaking natural formations. This eco-friendly experience ensures you connect with nature while creating unforgettable memories with small group sizes. - 2-hour guided kayaking tour suitable for all skill levels - Explore Whenuakura Island’s stunning lagoon and wildlife - Small private groups for a personalized experience - Safety gear provided, including life jackets and wetsuits if needed

The Bay Explorer Scenic Flight offers an unforgettable aerial journey over the Bay of Plenty, showcasing breathtaking views of Mount Manganui, the Kaimai foothills, and the stunning Matakana coast. With an exclusive remote beach landing, this tour provides an incredible opportunity for photography and exploration. Experience the thrill of flying in a Robinson R44 or Bell Jet Ranger helicopter, guided by knowledgeable pilots who share insights about the region's natural beauty. This 35-minute flight is perfect for couples, families, or anyone looking for a memorable adventure in the sky. - Enjoy a 35-minute scenic flight over beautiful landscapes - Experience an exclusive beach landing for fantastic photo ops - Led by professional pilots with extensive local knowledge - Minimum of 2 passengers required for booking - T&C apply

Paddling a Waka Ama (Outrigger Canoe) along the beautiful Pilot Bay beach, and taking a 90 minute guided walk through the stunning scenery of Mauao, brings together everything that attracts people to the area. Guests are bonded through collaboration on the water, experiencing paddling in unison to make the waka (canoe) glide. Then on to explore the mountain with local Māori guides who share ancestral stories, history, and insights about the environment and culture. This mix of water and land activities, teamwork, exploration, and cultural storytelling creates a fun, memorable, and immersive experience from mountain to sea.

Explore Whangamatā from the water and discover the story of an ancient volcanic landscape. This 90-minute guided boat experience takes you from Whangamatā Wharf along a spectacular coastline, including Whenuakura Island — known as Donut Island — and the dramatic volcanic coastline of the Tunaiti Caldera. See Whenuakura’s spectacular cliffs, sea tunnel and protected wildlife sanctuary, while your local guide shares stories, its wildlife and Māori heritage. Continue towards the "Lost Volcano of Whangamatā", where ancient volcanic activity shaped the coastline, offshore reefs and rocky formations you see today. Keep watch for seabirds and marine life as you cruise past Hauturu Island and explore this unique coasta. Along the way, enjoy locally sourced kawakawa tea while learning how geology, nature, culture and the ocean have shaped Whangamatā. A small-group experience combining spectacular scenery, local stories, wildlife and the fascinating volcanic history of the Coromandel.