Top Tauranga Outdoor Activities

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.

On this half-day small-group hiking tour, discover natural hidden gems that most tourists never get to experience. Wander through the Bay of Plenty’s native forests, hiking through dense woodland and along serene lakes. Visit McLaren Falls Park, Te Puna, Puketoki Reserve, and much more, keeping an eye out for local wildlife as you walk.

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. Watch from the boat or swim and snorkel alongside these playful marine mammals if you are a confident swimmer. Hear live commentary and enjoy hot drinks on board. The tour operates during summer months from November to May. Dolphin sightings are not guaranteed; if none are seen, a complimentary return trip is offered.

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.

Get up close to New Zealand’s natural beauty on this scenic Lake McLaren tour by kayak or canoe. Discover wildlife native to the region and gain insight into the ecosystem from your guide—something you'd miss on your own. Gaze up at sheer cliff faces towering overhead and enjoy panoramic views over the dense, sun-dappled bush. Paddle along the lakeshore and through Mangapapa Canyon. Hotel transfers are included for added convenience.

The vibrant blue-green waters of Tauranga Harbour are home to some of the area’s most popular sights. Relax aboard a two-deck boat on this boat cruise as you explore the harbor, taking in ocean views and the area’s beaches, forests, islands, and village settlements, contrasted by scenes of the Grand Kaimai mountain range and Mount Maunganui in the distance.

- Learn to surf at Mount Maunganui, New Zealand’s most iconic and beginner-friendly beach. - Enjoy small group sizes (max 8) for personalised guidance from expert, certified instructors. - Perfect for beginners, with step-by-step lessons in a safe, fun, and supportive environment. - All equipment provided, including surfboard and wetsuit—just bring swimwear and a towel. - Gain ocean awareness and master essential techniques, from paddling to standing on your board. - Create unforgettable memories as you connect with the ocean and ride your first waves. - Experience the thrill of surfing while surrounded by stunning coastal scenery.

- Discounted Family rates. - Small group sizes (max 8) with expert, certified instructors ensuring a safe experience. - Tailored for ages 10+, and all skill levels - making it perfect for beginners and kids alike. - All equipment provided, including boards and wetsuits—just bring swimwear and a towel. - Learn ocean safety and master basics like paddling and standing on the board together. - Bond as a family while creating fun, unforgettable memories in the surf. - Soak in stunning coastal views as you share the joy of catching your first waves. - Widely regarded as the safest place to learn to surf in New Zealand. - Ideally situated right next to the best beach in the area. - Coaches with years of experience.

A half day cruise on our spacious 18 metre vessel with 360° outdoor views. Comfortable fully enclosed seating downstairs and a large open sun-deck for wildlife watching. Some of the best marine diversity in New Zealand. Close-up encounters with seasonal marine wildlife – penguins, seals, dolphins, whales, sunfish, school fish, seabirds, sharks, turtles and orca.
 Onboard commentary and references with facts on the Bay and local marine wildlife. Photos of a lifetime!

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.

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.

Get a close-up view of some of New Zealand’s most beautiful marine life on this half-day dolphin-watching tour from Tauranga. As well as graceful dolphins, you’re likely to spot penguins, seals, whales, sharks, orca, and maybe even turtles. This is an ideal family activity, as the boat is small and your tour personalized. Learn about the marine environment from the crew, and also enjoy views of Mt. Maunganui and Moturiki Island.

This tour visits many of the natural "foodie" delights of The Coastal Bay of Plenty, including the superfoods, kiwifruit & avocados. During the day you also see & walk in a variety of natural environments & scenic areas in the region as well as tasting product & hearing about how those products are produced. This is a small group tour that avoids the anonymity of larger tours.

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.

What sets this SUP Adventure apart is the opportunity to connect with our local Māori instructors and hear stories of our ancestors, their traditions, and how they lived on Mount Maunganui. Guests paddle along the coastline, explore a nearby beach, and take a short guided walk on Mauao while learning about the local environment and our values of caring for the land and sea. This combination of activity, storytelling, and cultural insight creates a personal, meaningful, and memorable coastal adventure.

A half day cruise on our spacious 18 meter vessel with 360° outdoor views. Comfortable fully enclosed seating downstairs and a large open sun-deck for wildlife watching. Some of the best marine diversity in New Zealand. Close-up encounters with seasonal marine wildlife – penguins, seals, dolphins, whales, sunfish, school fish, seabirds, sharks, turtles and orca. Onboard commentary and references with facts on the Bay and local marine wildlife. Photos of a lifetime!

Join the local expert guide to explore the captivating Coromandel Peninsula, a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural history. This popular tour features a gentle walk through the historic paths of an old gold mining town, leading to an old mine, adorned with enchanting glow worms. Discover the rich flora and fauna of the region as the guide shows you artifacts such as Kauri gum, wood, and special rocks. Visit picturesque white sand beaches, dramatic cliffs, and ancient Maori and early European sites. Experience the unique phenomenon of Hot Water Beach (tide permitting), and take an optional stroll to Cathedral Cove. Fun and informative, this tour is perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. - Discover the scenic highlights of the Coromandel Peninsula - Walk through nature to visit an historic gold cave with glow worms - Experience coastal views, caves, European and Maori cultural sites - Learn about local treasures, including gold and crystals, from your guide.

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

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

What sets this Waka Ama Adventure apart is the opportunity to connect with our local Māori instructors and hear stories of our ancestors, their traditions, and the history of Waka Ama and voyaging. Guests paddle together as a crew along the coastline, explore a nearby beach, and take a short guided walk on Mauao while learning about the local environment and our values of caring for the land and sea. This combination of teamwork, activity, storytelling, and cultural insight creates a personal, meaningful, and memorable coastal adventure.

Relax sit back to take in interesting and informative commentary about the harbour, region, local legends and history. The ancient Maori Legend of Mount Maunganui is retold as we cruise past the icons base. See the Statue of Tangaroa as he guards the Harbour entrance & learn of his place in Maori folk law. Cross the entrance of Te Awanui, (Tauranga harbour). Tuck into the picturesque shores of Matakana Island, the third largest island of the north. Continue through Tauranga harbours two inner islands, natural history, and orchards. Through the western channel to Sulphur point, and its relation to our active volcano. Tauranga port and industry working up close, with interesting facts on exports, history and ships.

Join our local driver guides for a fun filled good old Kiwi Day out! Start the day as strangers and end as friends is our motto. We are sure you will have a fabulous day out and get to experience a "taste of Rotorua". Join us in experiencing Te Puia which is home to Pohutu Geyser which erupts multiple times in a day, bubbling mud, the kiwi conservation centre and Maori Arts and Crafts Institute where you will see the craftsmen/women at work weaving, wood and bone/ponamu carving. Dine in Pataka Kai for lunch. Next stop Redwoods Treewalk which is a breathtaking view of our Redwood Forest from above on a 700 metre track suspended amongst the forest. Venture into a breathtaking 70-metre eco cave at Redwoods Glowworms - filled with dramatic rock formations and a dazzling display of over 5,000 glowworms. Lastly a soak at Hells Gate in the mud bath followed by a mineral pool which is great for soothing any aches and pains. We look forward to welcoming you to our little piece of New Zealand.