Top Tauranga Art & Culture

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.

Learn about early European settlements and gorgeous nature on this evening sundown tour of Tauranga. Drive through the hills of Mount Maunganui while admiring gorgeous beaches and viewing the township from above. Visit some of the oldest buildings in New Zealand and develop your understanding of the New Zealand Land Wars and their relationship with the indigenous Māori people. Finish at The Clarence Hotel to enjoy a complimentary beverage.

This day experience takes visitors to the famous geothermal sites of New Zealand, departing from Mount Maunganui and travelling to Rotorua, before returning to the former when the tour is over. Pass by Tauranga and the Harbour Bridge before stopping at the Pohutu Geyser and Okere Falls in Rotorua.

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.

Discover the history, scenery and delicious food produce of Tauranga on this guided tour. Take in stunning views of the area’s natural beauty, from Mount Maunganui to the sandy beaches. Visit important historical sites and discover the area’s rich local industries including kiwifruit and avocado produce. Taste delicious, locally grown fruit and meet the people behind these world-renowned industries.

Make the most of your time on land in Tauranga with a full-day tour to Rotorua, stopping at scenic points of interest en route. In Rotorua, see geothermal hot pools and the Pohutu Geyser at Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley, and enjoy a Māori cultural performance. Sample New Zealand kiwifruit and visit highlights including Lake Rotorua, Mt. Tarawera, and Government Gardens throughout the day.

Working within the Cruise Ship schedule, we shall meet you at the Port of Tauranga and look to commence our journey at a pre-arranged time. As we embark on the journey along the Mount Maunganui Coast we shall visit a Kiwifruit Orchard on the way to Rotorua. With official stop at the renowned Redwood Forest. It is here that you shall embark on the canopy tree walk which really is a step into paradise with Californian Redwoods and some of our local fauna. The second stop shall be at one of the longest running tourist destinations in the region. Whakarewarewa boasts thermal activity, mud pools and the largest Geyser in the Southern Hemisphere. A guided tour and cultural performance is included and followed by a light lunch cooked in traditional Maori fashion. Specializing in small group tours in Mercedes vehicles or similar. We provide refreshments and snacks plus Wi-Fi throughout your journey with us. This is a family friendly day tour of approximately 6.5 hours duration.

A day of excitement, culture and connection awaits… Approx a 1-1.5hr drive, during this time enjoy an array of our (all inclusive) snacks & water while you sit back and take in the beautiful scenic views. Te Puia is Rotorua’s world-class guided experience and cultural performance centre. Experience a leading cultural performance in a beautifully carved meeting house. It will include a Traditional Māori Welcome, Song, traditional chant and Poi and Haka. Come face to face with the biggest, naturally active geyser in the Southern Hemisphere Pōhutu Geyser, and enjoy the up-close experience with the New Zealand Kiwi, in the Kiwi Conservation Centre. We will make a stop so you can purchase lunch in Rotorua. TIME PERMITTING WE WILL MAKE VARIOUS OTHER STOPS AT LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS On our journey back to your ship, sit back & enjoy the memories you made today while you were exploring “our backyard”. We will have you back at your ship at the Port of Tauranga well prior to your sailing time.

Experience the magic of our orchard and see firsthand how seasonal practices keep our avocados at their best. Uncover why this superfood has such a devoted following and treat yourself to a tasting of inventive avocado dishes that highlight its unique flavor. Ideal for avocado lovers and those keen to dive into local food culture, this adventure promises excitement and discovery for visitors of all ages.

Travel Ed is a Māori family operator, steeped in the ancestry of the Tauranga tribal area. With education backgrounds, both international and in Aotearoa (NZ), our experiences are based upon real-life experiences, and tailored to value learning outcomes across cultures. Your authentic Māori storyteller guide will take you on a journey of cultural discovery, connecting you with significant sites, stories, and ancient tribal customs. Feel the presence of our ancestors as we take you on a journey dating back to 925AD. This is not just a window to our culture, it's an immersion. Travel Ed is an experience of a life time. In your small intimate group your friendly and knowledgable guide will ensure you are part of the family by journey’s end. Experiencing our Tauranga Māori cultural tour will provide you with a deep understanding and appreciation of our history. It is a wonderful day of conversation, reflection and learning. A minimum of 4 guests is required for this tour to proceed.

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.

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.

Leaving Tauranga you head south through rolling farmland and forestry, past Lake Rotorua and on to the magical Waimangu Valley where your guide will take you through the world’s youngest geothermal valley. Starting at the head of the valley you will wind your way down the 4 klm walk, passing a range of geothermal activity, hot springs, volcanic craters, and wildlife. Some highlights to look out for include the world's largest hot spring, and the brilliant blue Inferno Crater. The trails ultimately lead you down to the lake, where you’ll enjoy a relaxing 45 minute cruise around the tranquil waters of Lake Rotomahana. On the cruise, you'll encounter stunning geothermal activity only accessible by boat, as well as rare native birdlife, and stunning views across the lake at the imposing Mount Tarawera. You can also listen to the onboard commentary of the historic stories of the lake, and hear about the 1886 Mount Tarawera eruption that covered and destroyed the pink and white terraces.

Discover famous sites from Middle-earth on this Hobbiton™ Movie Set shore excursion from Port of Tauranga. Enjoy a guided tour of Hobbiton™, which featured in screen adaptations of Tolkien's epic novels. Also explore some natural highlights of the area, including McLaren Falls Park, Kaimai Mamaku Conservation Park, and a kiwifruit orchard—something that other Hobbiton™ tours miss out on.

Standard tour times 10:00am - 4:00pm (we will confirm with you prior). Sculptured out of volcanic activity and thousands of years in the making, Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland is considered to be New Zealand’s most colourful and diverse geothermal sightseeing attraction. You are introduced to a uniquely different natural landscape – the key to what you see lies below the surface – one of the most extensive geothermal systems in New Zealand, extending over 18-sq. km. TIME PERMITTING WE WILL MAKE VARIOUS OTHER STOPS AT LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS

Exclusive tour taking you to a private Kiwifruit and Avocado orchard. We provide you with a VIP experience, including modern European vehicles with snacks and refreshments during the day. We explore some of the best Tauranga destinations, offering a truly unique, informative, and special journey for all our guests. Visiting an organic orchard is unique alone; however, this orchard is operated by one of the industry leaders in the New Zealand growers network. A picturesque setting with our local 190 Hectare Park and a visit to our historical village make this day a special Tauranga excursion with the best bits on offer.

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.

Get up close to wild dolphins in their natural habitat during a half-day dolphin cruise from Tauranga. You can watch from the boat or interact with these playful marine mammals as you swim and snorkel alongside them in the water. Hear informative live commentary and enjoy hot drinks on board. The tour operates during the summer months from November to May.

Discover the Health Benefits of Pure Mineral Hot Pools in a Natural Oasis Bathe in Pure Mineral Waters Amidst Spectacular Native Bush Scenery Experience the Serenity of Natural, Chemical-Free Hot Pools in a Tranquil Setting. Pools are drained and refilled every day. Hot Pools in a Tranquil Setting

Experience all that the Hobbiton Movie Set has to offer free of time pressures on this full-day tour. Learn how “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” were created, and see one of the few film sets maintained long after shooting has finished. This tour is great for both diehard fans and those who just want to enjoy a unique day out. The tour departs from Tauranga.

An exclusive Private tour for all the romantics of the world! Together with the professional local guide, you will visit the most romantic places in the city. Did you know The lush parks and golden beaches of Tauranga make a popular destination for lovers? You will feel spellbound in a charming atmosphere. What is considered as one of the best places to have a date in the city? Where can you make lovely photos? You will be surprised how many historical love stories are hidden in the streets, buildings, parks of the city. From heartbreaking and tragic, to the hilarious or spicy ones. What is so special about the mount of Maunganui? Why is it considered a favorite spot for couples? Tauranga has a good mix of modern amenities and nature, making it a favourable place to explore with your loved one. Many festivities take place on and around the main beach in the north of the suburb. This tour is especially recommended in the Saint Valentine period!

Make the most of your time in port at Tauranga. This full-day tour takes you past the beautiful beaches and mansions at Mt. Maunganui, inland to the North Island’s pastoral and geothermal center of Rotorua. Admire natural wonders such as Okere Falls and Wai-O-Tapu, walk through native bush, and see the mighty Mt. Tarawera. Fit a lot into just one day and still make it back to your ship in good time.

Standard tour times 10:00am - 4:00pm. If your cruise ship arrives after 10.00am, we will depart approximately 60 minutes after the ship has docked. (we will confirm with you prior). On arrival into Port of Tauranga, a day of sightseeing, story telling & cultural connection awaits... Bound for Rotorua (appx 1.5hr), enjoy an array of our all inclusive snacks & bottled water, sit back and take in the many beautiful scenic views. We begin with a visit to the Government Gardens, you'll see the Whangapipiro Rachel Pool known for its therapeutic water. Come face to face with the big Californian Redwoods at Whakarewarewa Forest, over 55,000 hectares. Take a walk at Kuirau Park, discover hissing, roaring & bubbling geothermal activity. Take off your shoes & enjoy a warm foot spa in one of the foot pools (towels provided). Next stop Lake Tarawera, meaning burnt spear, one of the largest lakes in New Zealand. Time permitting, we may stop at Te Puia for souvenir shopping.