Things to do in Tauranga

Step aboard a specially designed dolphin-viewing vessel and embark on a wild encounter with the ocean's most captivating creatures. Upon meeting the experienced crew at the marina, you'll venture into the open ocean in search of common dolphins and other wildlife. The knowledgeable crew will provide safety briefings and share fascinating facts about the marine environment throughout the entire day, ensuring an informative and enjoyable experience. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the common dolphins thriving in their natural habitat. The Bay of Plenty, home to a diverse range of marine life including dolphins, whales, turtles, and New Zealand fur seals, promises an unforgettable adventure out on the open ocean. With our expert crew on board, you have a great chance of encountering and respectfully observing various marine life forms in their element. Join us for an unforgettable experience in the wild, where the wonders of the sea come to life.

As the evening unfolds, begin your journey with a short scenic drive through rolling countryside, you’ll arrive at the breath taking Lake McLaren. Here, you’ll be welcomed with “Te Reka O Te Whenua- the Taste of the Land” a curated tasting session featuring flavours unique to Aotearoa. Savour the flavours of New Zealand Cheeses, sweet RewaRewa honey, and other artisanal delights, perfectly paired with locally brewed kombucha. In the cooler months, sip on warm, spiced 0% mulled wine to keep you warm. As the sun starts to set, your guides will lead you onto the calm lake, where the journey into the heart of Aotearoa’s natural beauty begins. Glide gently through still waters towards the Mangapapa Canyon a hidden part of the lake where thousands of Glowworms illuminate the area. Your guide will also share the fascinating science behind these bioluminescent wonders. Upon your return, paddle under the star filled sky, hear the whispers of the land through Māori legends, and listen to stories of the night sky This is an experience of nature’s finest luxuries: pristine waters, cultural stories, and a starlit sky reflected in the stillness below.

Meet at the Tauranga waterfront jetty and board your vessel. Relax as you leave the city behind and spend the cruise exploring the pristine Bay of Plenty waters. Encounter wild Dolphins swimming beneath your feet, with seasonal seabirds, penguins, seals, whales, sunfish, school fish, sharks, orca, and even turtles being additional regulars. Passenger numbers are limited for comfort and to enable a more personal experience. The large spacious custom built boat is also ideal for families. The Captain and experienced crew will be more than happy to share their marine knowledge with you and will provide fascinating commentary and point out all that they see so you won’t miss a thing. You can also enjoy a drink from the onboard bar as you relax and soak up the sun. Don’t forget your camera as you are able to get up close to wildlife, making it a photographers dream for those once in a lifetime snaps. You will return to Tauranga by 1 to 2pm, giving you the rest of the day to explore this beautiful region. Rest assured, we are Qualmark acredited, with silver status.

Are you ready to soar over waterfalls, zoom through pristine native forests, and be enlightened through a hands-on cultural and ecological experience in Okere Falls, Rotorua? If so, then Rotorua Ziplines has you covered. Suitable for a wide range of ages and abilities, a network of ziplines, swing bridges, and boardwalks will have you in awe for 2.5 hours as you fly, walk and gaze at the stunning taiao (Environment) that is Ōkere. Born through an intimate connection with the Ōkere Awa (Kaituna River), this joint venture between Ngāti Hinerangi and Rotorua Rafting’s Ōkere Falls born and bred, Sam Sutton, has been created to showcase its mauri (spirit) and importance with Aotearoa’s soon to be premier zipline experience. End the experience with a tree in your name as the Rotorua Ziplines reforestation project plant it's way towards 100,000 native trees by the end of 2025 to see Ōkere Falls thrive for generations to come.

Explore Tauranga Harbour on a sightseeing cruise of New Zealand's largest natural harbor. Marvel at views of Mount Maunganui, search for NZ fur seals and sea birds and enjoy a beach visit on Matakanka Island. Board The Kewpie, a 70-year-old ferry made from native Kauri trees, The Kewpie which boasts an interesting history in New Zealand waters. The 52ft boat has two levels and a licensed bar for a comfortable cruise around Tauranga Harbour. While cruising look out for the Statue of Tangaroa, untouched white sandy beaches, lush green forests, and islands, contrasted by the massive developed port infrastructure. Keep on the lookout for seasonal wildlife on your harbor cruise such as blue penguins, sea birds, or adorable NZ fur seals. Stay on board or disembark to explore Matakana Island. The island's white sandy beach is a favorite spot for beach walks, fishing, swimming, and picnics.

Adventure and Cultural Tours Bay of Plenty are offering an Exclusive Best of Tauranga Tour for our Cruise Ship Passengers. Starting from the Port of Tauranga just a couple minutes' walk from your Cruise Ship, we shall be meeting at a designated time of approximately 1 hour after your docking or 9.30am (to be confirmed upon booking). Your journey shall be in a small group setting with a Tour Guide in a modern vehicle, with refreshments available throughout the day. Starting with a drive along the beautiful Mt Maunganui beach local information shall be provided to you and where possible opportunity for a photo stop. Things shall continue with a pleasant drive to rural setting in the Tauranga hills. Here you shall visit a Private Kiwifruit and Avocado Orchard. This orchard is an excellent example of our largest fruit export from New Zealand. With an increase in the demand for organically grown fruit, you can see where it all starts and from here could soon be on your supermarket shelf on the other side of the world. Details and imagery shall be provided as to the fruit growth cycle, when in season you will also be able to see Green and Gold Kiwi on the vine. Your day is far from over as we make our way to the wonderful natural setting of McLaren Falls Park. This 190 Hectare park boasts a large lake, 2 waterfalls and a delightful easy to moderate bush walk. With a visit to the Tauranga Historic Village set on 5.5 Hectares you have the freedom to self-explore. There is a variety of niche and general shopping experiences. All set with replica and original historic homes your Tauranga adventure shall be one of a timeless encounter and modern offering. As your day draws to an end the return journey shall take you back to the Port of Tauranga. This day tour encompasses the best of the Tauranga region, providing you with a VIP small group experience. Overall journey shall be round 4.5 hours with up to 18 people in our Luxury Mini-Coach. Refreshments may change with seasonal availabilities. Bottled water is provided for all guests. GF and other Dietaries are catered to with prior notification. Our tour has been upgraded to provide all our guests with an even more exclusive offering for the 2025 Cruise Season.

Start your adventure with a flight capturing the breathtaking views of Mount Maunganui and its golden beaches expanding as far as the eye can see. Higher up, you'll be able to see White Island, Mount Ruapehu, the Rotorua Lakes, The Coromandel, and Mount Taranaki. The flight will last 20-25 minutes, so there is plenty of time to take it all in. Once at 12,000 or 15,000 feet in the sky, jump out of the plane on a tandem skydive, falling to the earth at over 200km/hour. After some time to feel the adrenaline as you freefall, enjoy a peaceful parachute ride back to base. Please let us know your preferred jump time, and we will do our best to accommodate your request.

Head to the Waimarino Adventure Park on the banks of the Wairoa River and take advantage of the numerous fun activities available here for the ultimate day of fun for the whole family. An on-site café offers refreshments, the perfect spot to refuel with a cold drink or a bite to eat. Take to the water on a family-friendly pedalo and work as a team to navigate your way along the Wairoa River. Or make use of the unlimited kayak and paddleboard hire included with the supreme pass entry tickets to explore the tranquil waters of the Wairoa River at leisure. For the more adventurous at heart, "The Blob" and "The UFO" promise a rush of exhilaration, while the thrills continue with a plunge down New Zealand's only kayak slide. Or step onto the Gladiator's pole and engage in a bit of friendly competition with a battle of balance and strength. A rock-climbing wall, beach volleyball, and Waimarino's low ropes course offer guests a chance to engage in more athletic activities. And if relaxation is more your pace, never fear. Let the shade of palm trees envelop you as you bask in the warmth of the sun.

Step aboard our purpose built vessel Bay Explorer as we showcase the extensive Tauranga harbour. Our on-board commentary will give you insights to the city, port, islands, culture, history and ancient legends. Relax on our upper or lower deck as our intimate cruise takes you through the Tauranga inner harbour, the Stella Passage, and then west into a spectacular watery setting nestled by the islands Matakana, Rangiwhaea and Motuhoa, surrounded by the grand Kaimai range. Special highlights include. Experience the ancient Maori Legend of Mount Maunganui, retold as we cruise past the icons base. See historic remains of the Pa site as it remains today and learn its history. Pass the Statue of Tangaroa as he guards the harbour entrance and learn of his place in Maori folk law. Cross the entrance of Te Awanui with commentary on Karewa Island, and why it’s referred to as Tauranga’s very own Jurassic Park. Tuck into the picturesque shores of Matakana Island, the third largest island of the north, to hear its special connection to the harbour. Learn about, and witness the beauty of the harbours inner islands, natural history, wildlife and orchards. Witness New Zealand’s largest port and industry working up close, with interesting facts on exports, history and ships. With our friendly, professional marine Biologist crew pointing out wildlife along the way. Our harbour is regarded as the Bay of Plenty gateway to the Pacific Ocean, and the entrance to New Zealand’s largest Port. It features our best diversity of landscapes from untouched white sandy beaches, lush green forests, to small village settlements and in contrast the massive highly developed port infrastructure. Considered the most beautiful Harbour in the North Island of New Zealand. Explore it fully on our premier excursion.

A region of extreme contrasts and diversity – come and be part of a small group of adventurers as we guide you through the North Island’s beautifully carved Maori maraes, active volcanoes, spectacular caves, thick native forests, awesome waterfalls, verdant valleys, long sandy beaches, soaring snowcapped peaks, stunning lakes, and vibrant cities bursting with interesting arts, culture and architecture…not to mention bloody good coffee! ZigZag’s ‘Great Northern Road Trip’ visits every corner of this photogenic piece of paradise - from New Zealand’s buzzing capital city of Wellington to the Martinborough wine district, the volcanic Central Plateau (with two days to complete the incredible Tongariro Crossing), the rugged and remote ‘Forgotten Highway’ region, Mt Taranaki and the rarely-visited central west, the surfing meccas of Raglan and Mount Maunganui, the adventure capitals of Taupo and Rotorua, the world-famous art-deco and wine capital of Napier/Hastings, State Highway 35’s astonishingly beautiful coastlines, maraes, and views of steaming White Island, the Hobbiton movie set, Cathedral Cove and the astonishingly beautiful Coromandel Peninsula, Mangawhai Head’s lagoon, the Bay of Islands, the beaches of the Far North, Cape Reinga, and the kauri forests of Northland’s west coast, before driving back down to Auckland, where we finish our tour.