Top Tauranga Culture

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

DEPARTS TAURANGA - Experience a slice of the Bay of Plenty and Rotorua on this scenic six-hour journey filled with coastal beauty, towering forests, geothermal parks, and local hidden gems. PLEASE NOTE: This tour does enter the geothermal valley for the geyser eruption. If you would like to see this please book the Rotorua Geothermal Wonderland Tour

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.

Discover the dramatic volcanic history and breathtaking geothermal landscapes of Rotorua on this unforgettable full-day journey through one of New Zealand’s most extraordinary natural environments.

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 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.

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.

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.

Join us and experience the magic of New Zealand’s most distinctive geothermal destination. Relax in rejuvenating mud baths and soothing sulphur spas on an unforgettable journey to Hell's Gate Geothermal Park. Witness the awe-inspiring sight of the Southern Hemisphere’s largest hot waterfall. Steeped in ancient myths and legends this extraordinary land has been a source of healing and wonder for generations. * Times may vary or alter to suit the arrival of the cruise ship * Gold Qualmark ***** Tour Operator * Full refund if ship doesn't make it into port * Minimum of 6 passengers required to enable this trip to go ahead

Join us for our over 16 years of age tour Private guided walking tour through Ohinemutu, a living Māori geothermal village situated on the shores of Lake Rotorua. After the Māori Village tour we head to Waiariki Spa (adults only). Nestled on the shores of Lake Rotorua a world class spa awaits. Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa is a luxury Māori cultural wellness thermal retreat for adults. Wai Ariki is owned by Ngāti Whakaue and is built on their legacy of cultural traditions, healing practices and manaakitanga (warm hospitality). Wai Ariki meaning 'Chiefly Waters' is architecturally stunning and culturally authentic specialising in holistic health and wellbeing. The 2-hour Restorative Journey - Wai Whakaora is a 7-step multisensory experience blending Māori culture, traditional healing practices with the healing elements of geothermal heat, water, mud, and steam. The Journey is unique in the world and has been purposefully curated to relax and rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul.

Join us on an epic day of culture, history and nature! See the best geyser in the southern hemisphere shooting 30M high, explore the Living Maori Village and enjoy a top quality cultural show, witness the majestic Redwoods Forest from the forest floor or high up in the trees! Enjoy a stunning bush walk to witness different levels of the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world! Entry to the Redwoods Forest and Okere Falls is included. Treetop Walk upgrade is possible on the day. Entry into Whakarewarewa Maori Living Village including Cultural Show and Village tour is included. Water, juice, NZ Made Lemon and Paeora drink, brownie, muesli bars and a gift of traditional NZ sweets included.

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 the stunning landscapes of New Zealand on a guided eco tour from Whangamatā to Hauturu, renowned for its breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage. This low tide crossing allows you to engage with the island’s unique ecosystem while learning about its ancient origins. Experience the thrill of climbing nature’s staircase for panoramic views of the Coromandel Peninsula and contribute to the preservation of these pristine environments on the ecology track. This adventure promises not only a connection with nature but also a deeper understanding of the region’s history and future. - Guided eco tour from Whangamatā to Hauturu during low tide - Climb stunning nature trails for sweeping views of the Coromandel Peninsula - Tread lightly when walking the ecology track on this predator proof island - Learn about the ancient origins and cultural significance of Whangamatā - Take a breath at 'windows', share gratitude with the Tipuna Tree and marvel at historical feats along the way

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.

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.

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.

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.

Explore the thermal wonderland of Wai-O-Tapu on this full-day private Tauranga shore excursion to the Rotorua region. Witness colorful thermal springs, hissing steam vents, and bubbling mud pools as your guide details the area’s geothermal activity, then discover. Port pickup and drop-off by private vehicle included.