Top Tauranga How to Get Around in 2026

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.

Make the most of a day on land without driving yourself on a full-day private shore excursion from Tauranga to Rotorua. Sample kiwifruit en route, then travel past native forests, shimmering lakes, and rolling farmland. Be immersed in Māori culture and marvel at the geothermal activity at Whakarewarewa in Rotorua. If time allows, stop at Okere Falls and the Redwood Forest. The itinerary is customizable to suit your needs.

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

Paddling a Waka Ama (Outrigger Canoe) along the beautiful Pilot Bay beach, and taking a 90 minute guided walk through with local Maori. Guests are bonded through collaboration on the water, experiencing paddling in unison to make the waka (canoe) glide. Then on to experience the local area 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.

Immerse yourself into the heart of New Zealand with a one of a kind experience visiting Whakarewarewa, a living Maori village. As you make your way to Rotorua, you will smell it before you see it, a geothermal wonderland that is still home to Tuhourangi and Ngati Wahiao people. Wander the trail network circling around bubbling mud pots and spouting geysers while learning about the heritage of those that have inhabited the area and lived off its features for over 200 years. We recommend the optional Cultural Performancel to see the famous Haka live! We will also visit The Redwoods & Whakarewarewa Forest, one of Rotorua’s most spectacular natural assets and one of the city’s greatest treasures. Important to have comfortable shoes, sunhats, swimming gears, drinking water. You will head back to sea with a new appreciation for the land and a smile on your face!

Take a walk around Tauranga and see the city’s landmarks and attractions on this self-guided audio tour. Instead of getting crammed into a stifling hot tour bus or waiting for other travellers, stroll along the waterfront at your own pace while learning about the history of local iwi (Māori tribe) Te Arawa, then visit significant sites like the Strand, The Elms Mission House and the old cannon at Monmouth Redoubt.

Let us take you on a tour to remember (up to 15-18 pax). We can offer some highlights to visit and you can add to or choose your own agenda for the day. You may like to visit the gondola and go for a luge ride or maybe a cultural performance. Many options available so let's talk and make it a day to remember. We will have you back at your ship at the Port of Tauranga well prior to your sailing time.

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.

Enjoy a private, exclusive tour with your own local guide. With a professional guide, you will visit the most charming places in the city. You will have a chance to explore the city while hearing fascinating facts and legends. Why is Tauranga known as a lifestyle and tourism destination? Tauranga has many outlying islands and reefs, which make it a notable tourist destination for traveling scuba divers and marine enthusiasts. You will be surprised how many stories are in hidden streets, buildings, and corners of Tauranga. Your charming guide will tell you what is special and unique about living in this city. It is perfect for people visiting the city for the first time and who want to get the most out of it. * A local and charismatic guide will guide you. * You will hear the stories and legends of the city. * You will visit charming places.

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.

Heading inland from Tauranga, you will pass through the beachside town of Mount Maunganui on your way to a 12 acre sheep farm in Matamata. This farm is one that Peter Jackson fell in love with, and we now know as Middle Earth. The Lord of the Rings director picked a spot of lush, rolling, green hills to create the Hobbiton set. Enjoy a guided tour through the hobbit holes, Bagshot Row, the Mill, the famous bridge and finish up the tour with a beverage at the Green Dragon Inn. Even if you are not a Lord of the Rings fan, the landscape of the area is magical enough, and you will get to see a working New Zealand sheep and beef farm. Soak up the atmosphere of the Kaimai Ranges and don't forget to grab some movie set souvenirs on your way out. The remaining hours of the total hour duration of the tour is allotted to travel time.

our tour guide has 16years experience and you will travel in a luxury vehicle. your tour will also be much more enjoyable as it is a private tour this will result in you getting more time for sightseeing. we can guide and recommend you various Tourist Destinations and help you to choose the places of your interest and take you over there,

Discover Rotorua’s geothermal marvels on this exclusive full-day Private Shore Tour. From bubbling mud pools and steaming vents to lush forests and crystal lakes, this journey reveals the natural forces that shape New Zealand. Enjoy personalized commentary, scenic stops, and a rich blend of culture, nature, and adventure. Your tour begins directly at Tauranga Cruise Port, where your private guide welcomes you for an unforgettable day exploring the region’s iconic landscapes, kiwifruit orchards, waterfalls, redwood forests, and Rotorua’s famous geothermal valley.

This unique walking tour allows guests to enjoy their experience by learning about the ancient history of Mount Maunganui dating back to the arrival period of our Māori ancestors to current day. A highlight is the ancient pohutukawa tree that was used in tribal rituals. This tree is believed to be one of the oldest in New Zealand. The stories told at the locations are not well-known by many locals, and definitely not by visitors to our community. The stories told are generally from the ancient Māori tribal perspective which leaves guests with a greater understanding of this city. Min of 3 guests for tour to proceed.

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.

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.

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!

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.

The Wai-O-Tapu & Champagne Pool Geothermal Explorer combines coastal scenery, volcanic landscapes, native forest, and unforgettable geothermal wonders into one remarkable Bay of Plenty experience.

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.

The focus of this historical and cultural self-guided audio tour is the tales and myths that surround Mount Maunganui, also known as The Mount, including the arrival of the Maori in New Zealand. Perfectly suited for discovery on foot, our self-guided audio tour allows you to set the pace and explore at your leisure as you uncover the stories of this exciting city. Wander along white sand beaches while listening to the stories of the natives’ past. Learn about the battles that took place between the Maori and the European settlers, and the lore that brings the mountain to life. To discover this wonderful city in your own time and at your own pace just download this self-guided audio tour, pop in your headphones, open the map that comes with your download and start walking. The tour will take approximately two hours, but you can pause the audio guide when needed. Grab a bite to eat or do some shopping along the way. Please note that this tour is only available in English.