Tauranga in a Snapshot: Culture, Coastlines and Kiwifruit
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Hassle-free
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4.5 hours (approx.)
Small Group Tour
Overview
Are you wondering what to do while your cruise ship is in port at Tauranga?
Perhaps you are looking for a relaxed, shorter tour that allows you to experience the heartbeat of the region, while still leaving time to browse local shops or enjoy lunch back on board.
Maybe you have already visited Rotorua on a previous cruise and would love to discover something new.
Step off your ship and join us for a scenic and informative journey showcasing the highlights that make Tauranga and the Bay of Plenty such a special destination.
This carefully curated tour offers an enjoyable mix of pristine beaches, history, culture, and natural beauty, perfectly suited for cruise passengers.
The coastal Bay of Plenty was aptly named by Captain James Cook during his first voyage to New Zealand. With Tauranga at its heart, the region truly offers something for everyone and remains one of New Zealand’s best-kept secrets.
We meet you just outside the port’s main pedestrian gates and begin by driving along the pristine inner harbour toward an impressive volcanic lava dome formed by the upwelling of rhyolite lava over millions of years.
Commonly known as “The Mount,” and officially named Mauao, this iconic landmark holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for local Maori tribes.
Maori are the indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand, arriving in several canoe voyages between 1250 and 1300. Mauao was home to early Maori settlers and remains a place of great importance today.
We then traverse the narrow isthmus to the main beaches of Mount Maunganui, a prestigious seaside resort.
Here, the vast Pacific Ocean stretches before you, 22 kilometres of white sandy beaches, rolling surf, and stunning coastal properties make this an unforgettable highlight.
Leaving the ocean behind, we cross the harbour bridge into Tauranga City.
Officially designated a city in 1963, Tauranga is now the fifth-largest urban area in New Zealand, with a population of approximately 137,900.
It is one of the country’s fastest-growing cities and home to the Port of Tauranga, New Zealand’s largest and most efficient export port.
Along the way, you will be introduced to the city’s arts, culture, and historic sites, reflecting both Maori heritage and early European settlement.
Next, we introduce you to one of New Zealand’s most famous exports, kiwifruit.
Enjoy a brief stop where you can get up close to the vines, taste the fruit, and sample the nectar (juice).
You will also have the opportunity to taste Manuka honey, another renowned local product originating from this region and prized worldwide for its medicinal properties.
Our journey then takes us westward into the Kaimai Ranges to visit McLaren Falls Park, an area rich in native bush, birdlife, and diverse tree species.
Here you may enjoy a gentle walk through the forest to a beautiful waterfall.
If time permits, we continue through rolling farmland to a scenic lookout offering sweeping, unobstructed views of the Bay of Plenty coastline, including Tauranga, surrounding suburbs, farmland, and your cruise ship in port.
Finally, we return to Tauranga City, travelling through local suburbs and along the inner harbour past fishing boats and marina views.
We cross the busy harbour bridge and pass the port area before returning you comfortably to your ship, concluding your Tauranga sightseeing adventure.
What's Included
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English Speaking Guide
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Air Conditioned Transportation
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Interesting City Centre
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Idyllic Seaside Resort
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Historic Landmarks – The Elms Mission station
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Maori Battle Grounds
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Taste Local Honey, kiwifruit and Ice-Cream
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Walk in Native Rainforest
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Interesting Waterfalls
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Impressive Photo Opportunities
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Cottage Cafe for Freshly Baked Muffins and a Cuppa
Considerations
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Gratuities/Tips are not included in your tour, if you would like to leave a tip, please bring cash
Special Instructions
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Wear comfortable clothes and a light Jacket
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Bring your sunglasses, sunhat, and water bottle
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Wear comfortable walking shoes
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This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or motorized scooters
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Minimum number of guests per group is 4 guests
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Maximum number of guests per group is 22 guests
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Bring cash and/or credit card for any additional purchases on the day
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Bring your camera to capture wonderful memories of your time ashore!
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup and Dropoff at the Cruise Port Included.
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