Top Activities on the Ground in Tauranga

On this full-day tour from Tauranga, take a journey deep into Middle Earth—to the Hobbiton™ Movie Set—without the stress of driving yourself on unfamiliar rural roads. Be driven from Tauranga into the heart of the Waikato with a group and guide. Also spend some time in the secluded New Zealand bush at McLaren Falls Park and see the striking waterfall of the same name.

This day experience takes visitors to the famous geothermal sites of New Zealand, departing from Mount Maunganui and travelling to Rotorua, before returning to the former when the tour is over. Pass by Tauranga and the Harbour Bridge before stopping at the Pohutu Geyser and Okere Falls in Rotorua.

Get up close to New Zealand’s natural beauty on this scenic 3.5-hour Lake McLaren kayak tour. Paddle out onto the calm waters of Lake McLaren with your guide. Discover wildlife native to the region and gain insight into the habitat it calls home. Gaze up at sheer cliff faces towering overhead and enjoy panoramic views over the dense, sun-dappled woodland. Paddle along the tranquil lakeshore and through Mangapapa Canyon, where the water is as deep as the cliffs are high and the dense shrub forms caves along the water’s edge.

See the highlights of Rotorua on a full-day shore excursion from Tauranga. You’ll travel to one of New Zealand’s famed regions in the North Island, observing otherworldly landscapes and Pohutu Geyser at Whakarewarewa’s thermal springs. Visit Okere Falls at the Bay of Plenty; receive a traditional welcome at an authentic Maori village where you’ll watch a 'haka' (war dance); and view the Government Gardens, a historic bath house and more in Rotorua.

Discover Tauranga and Mount Maunganui through the eyes of a local with our short tour. In just two hours, we'll unveil the hidden treasures often overlooked by tourists. Our journey kicks off with a scenic drive around the Mount area, crossing the iconic Harbour Bridge and passing by historic landmarks like the Elms Mission House and the Old Post Office nestled in Tauranga's city centre.  Immerse yourself in the lush landscapes as we drive you past the Kiwi & Avocado orchards (time permitting a brief stop) before ascending to the breathtaking Scenic Lookout. From there, soak in the sweeping panoramic views of the Coromandel, with the distant silhouette of Whakaari / White Island completing the scene. On your return lies the charming township of Mount Maunganui, beckoning you to explore its delightful array of shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants. Take a stroll around Mauao, the bay, or the picturesque Mount Main Beach.

Get up close to wild dolphins in their natural habitat during a half-day dolphin cruise from Tauranga. You can watch from the boat or interact with these playful marine mammals as you swim and snorkel alongside them in the water. Hear informative live commentary and enjoy hot drinks on board. The tour operates during the summer months from November to May.

If you’d like to experience something really unique, very special and only available in Rotorua, New Zealand – then let us guide you on an amazing journey to Hell’s Gate Geothermal Park. Combine all three of Hell’s Gate most popular experiences with this 3 hour package. Take advantage of the self-guided interactive geothermal walk (map is provided on arrival) before indulging in the geothermal mud and sulphur waters, experiencing the healing properties local Māori have been using for centuries. It’s a Rotorua experience you’ll never forget! * 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 *

When your cruise ship docks in the Port of Tauranga, explore Rotorua, Te Puia, and the surrounding countryside, and see the best of the North Island’s geothermal landscapes with ease. With round-trip travel from the Port of Tauranga included, hit top attractions including the Government Gardens, Mt. Maunganui, and the Pohutu geyser. Along the way, watch a traditional Maori cultural performance, and learn of New Zealand’s rich native culture and heritage.

New Zealand’s well known for adventure tourism, but it can be difficult to find exciting locations that are fun for the whole family. Adrenalin Forest solves that problem – located in the heart of the Bay of Plenty, surrounded by pine forest and native ferns, it has over 100 challenges ranging from the child-friendly to the ultra-challenging. Book in advance to avoid getting shut out by group bookings.