celebrity cruises shore excursions tauranga

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Excursions & Tours

Rotorua Geothermal Wonderland & Maori Cultural Excursion

Half Day Tauranga Sightseeing

Private Van Full-Day

Tauranga shore excursions & rotorua tours to new zealand.

Shore Excursion: The Ultimate Hobbiton and Lord of the Rings Movie Set Tour

• Tauranga shore excursion: Hobbiton Movie Set tour
• Discover Bag End, the Green Dragon Inn, and more
• Port pickup and drop-off by an experienced professional
• Includes admission and air-conditioned transport for extra ease
• See itinerary
• Experienced, professional and friendly driver/guide
• Port pickup and drop-off
• A tankard of Hobbit ale or cider at the Green Dragon Pub (non-alcoholic option available)
• Air conditioned transport
• Entry/Admission - Hobbiton Movie Set
• Please meet the Shore Trips and Tours representative at the Shore Trips and Tours sign board situated just outside the port gates. Walk through the information marquee and out through the gates - a short walk from your ship.
• Port of Tauranga Ltd, 2 Salisbury Avenue, Mount Maunganui 3116, New Zealand
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Hobbiton is open to the elements, and tours operate in all weather conditions (sun protection is recommended). Umbrellas are available for rain and shine.
• A moderate amount of walking is involved. Due to uneven surfaces and some steep inclines this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair. Please check with us before booking if you are unsure if the tour will be suitable.
• The vehicle size is usually 24-35 seats (smaller than the cruise lines), although smaller minivans are often used. Having 24-34 customers allows us to (usually) book a tour guide at Hobbiton just for us! This avoids the masses on the public tours that other companies use.
• Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
• This tour runs with a minimum of 4 fare paying passengers. We will advise on the day if the minimum hasn't been met, and offer alternative options if necessary
• Please purchase a ticket for all travelers in your group - including 'purchasing' a ticket for all infants. NZ transport law requires us to count all heads on board. One child or infant max per adult ticket.
• This tour is for passengers arriving on a cruise ship into the Port of Tauranga
• This is a Pre Booked Tour Only!
• No sales on the Day of this Tour!
• 10am is the regular tour start time. This may be adjusted for early/late arriving cruise ships. We will advise any time change at the time of booking
• Please ensure you provide a contact phone number and/or email address that you will have with you and/or checking whilst on holiday so any last minute tour time changes can be notified
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 35 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• You'll get picked up See departure details
• 1 Hobbiton Movie Set Stop: 5 hours - Admission included Escape into the enchanting world of JRR Tolkein’s imagination – on a trip to the Hobbiton Movie Set and farm. Intricately recreated after being used as a film set for both the Lord of The Rings and The Hobbit trilogies, this tour will take you to another world set deep in New Zealand farming countryside. Whether you have read the books, seen the movies, or neither at all - this is one day you won’t forget. Our expert guide will set the scene as we leave the Bay of Plenty region and climb over the Kaimai Ranges. Admire the amazing scenery before arriving at 'The Shire's Rest' visitors centre where your Hobbiton experience begins. Hobbiton Highlights: • Explore 44 Hobbit holes set across 12 acres of lush pasture and manicured gardens. You can even get pop inside a doorway for a souvenir photo. • Learn inside tips from your specialist guide and get wrapped up in the fascinating stories they tell. • Make a visit to Bag End, the Party Tree, Gandalf’s Cutting, The Mill House and more. For you movie buffs there are recognisable landmarks at every turn! • Cap off your tour with a complimentary ale, cider or ginger beer in the Green Dragon Inn…where you can sit by the fire, admire the expert craftsmanship and imagine life as a hobbit! This tour is provided by Tauranga's best Shore Excursion team. Also included on the itinerary is a stop at a local honey shop (with FREE tastings of fresh NZ honey and FREE honey ice cream), and a visit to a kiwifruit orchard to see how this quintessential New Zealand icon is grown.  About us: Our team has been delivering world-class Shore Excursions for over 16 years. It all started with owner Ian - one man and a beloved Rolls Royce car. Today, the number of vehicles and tours has changed, but the philosophy hasn’t – every customer is treated like one of the family, and we will make sure you have an unforgettable day. We have over 100 years combined tour guiding experience so you know you are in capable hands (and if you’re lucky you may even get to travel with Ian – he still loves to get behind the wheel!). Travel in a modern, air conditioned vehicle with a passionate local as your host. We specialise in smaller groups to allow an intimate and personalised experience. Every tour is guided and commentated from start to finish - our guides delight in showing off our little corner of the world. And, we guarantee to have you back to the ship on time! Read more
• You'll return to the starting point

• M772GOelizabethj 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles You won’t regret booking with Shore Trips & Tours We went on two tours/excursions with Shore Trips & Tours; Hobbiton Express out of the Tauranga port and a Helicopter Ride around the Bay of Islands. Both of them were fantastic! Directions off our ship were clear, the vans were easy to locate and the information provided by the tour guide/helicopter pilot was very informative. We made it back to our ship well before the ship sailed. Even if you’re not a die hard LOTR fan, you’ll enjoy the Hobbiton Movie Set. The views are gorgeous. The helicopter tour around the Bay of Islands is the best way to see most of the 144 islands. Shore Trips & Tours are highly recommendedx Read more Written February 24, 2024
• scfamily 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fabulous tour of Rotorua and Te Pua We were picked up quickly in a comfortable air conditioned bus. We were warned the drive was about 75 minutes, but it didn’t seem that long. Our driver, Brian, gave us an excellent commentary the whole way there. We had a tour of the Māori cultural legacy, saw how they helped the Kiwi birds, saw the geothermal area, and watched a Māori show. On the way out he showed us some special places in Rotorua and the Redwoods that grow there. Read more Written February 18, 2024
• Traemersa 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Christchurch Sightseeing booked through Shore Trips and Tours We booked and did the Christchurch Sightseeing tour through Shore Trips and Tours. Using their site was great to be able to key in our Cruise and have all the ports of call come up with their times and dates and options. The site was very easy to use. The tour itself was wonderful. Our driver and tour guide was John who was totally professional. Even though he had challenges on the day – there was a triathlon in progress – he was a very competent and courteous driver. He concentrated on driving when he needed to and offered commentary when it was appropriate. We thoroughly enjoyed our tour with John. He visited all the points referred to in the itinerary and was very knowledgeable about Christchurch. His breadth of knowledge about the earthquakes and the damage and rebuilding was amazing. We would not hesitate to recommend this tour to others. Read more Written February 9, 2024
• hrs314 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us- The Fellowship of the Ring. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us- The Fellowship of the Ring. The Hobbiton Movie Tours sell out especially in the summer, so a reservation is strongly recommended. I used Shore Tours & Trips. They were so professional and great with communication, especially as our time in port was exceptionally tight with the Norwegian Spirit. Our guide, Gary, was great. Met him right next to the cruise port at Tauranga and he gave so much information about the local area on our 45-minute drive. So interesting to learn so much about the harbor, the industry and economics of the area. Amazing visit to Hobbiton. Gary split us up into two groups and made sure that we were early for our tour. So much fun exploring the movie set with our very enthusiastic guide, Ben. Walking through The Shire was so beautiful. Winding trails, Hobbit Holes, The Mill, The Green Dragon Inn, Bag End. Easy to see why Peter Jackson fell in love with the beauty of this location to create Middle-earth. Go behind the doors of a Hobbit Hole to explore how a typical Hobbit family would live. So cool. The Hobbit homes on Bagshot Row just recently opened for guests to visit. Even if you are not a fan, it is so much fun to enter through the winding hole in the earth and then go from room to room. Warm up by the roaring fireplace in the living room. Sit on the couch. Check out the hobbit-sized bunkbeds. Take a quick nap in the master, but no shoes on the bed. Check out the pantry. Bake a blueberry pie or stir the pot of soup. Read the guide to mushrooms. Something is always cooking for the seven meals a day! Go past The Mill to reach the Green Dragon Inn to enjoy a frogmorton ginger beer, a sackville apple cider or a pint of ale. These brews are locally brewed and only available at the inn. Fun fact: The Party Tree was almost cut down prior to Peter Jackson scouting sites for Lord of the Rings. The enormous pine tree was disruptive to the flow of sheep. Mr. Alexander had sent for someone to cut down this magnificent tree, but the blade was too small so the job was never started....fortunately. Also, when the scouts first approached Mr. Alexander to view his sheep farm, he was engrossed in watching a football game and asked them to come back. How is that for Middle-earth karma. Read more Written February 3, 2024
• marymJ6630BR 0 contributions 2.0 of 5 bubbles Te Puia cultural centre and georthermals The tour was meant to be from 9am till 4pm, but we didn't leave until 920 and we were back by 330 - so dudded out of almost an hour and we were rushed through Te Puia for no apparent reason. Two of the seats in the small coaster style bus (seats 15) were mega uncomfortable due to the wheel hump. Half the time we couldn't hear the tour commentary because rather than speakers in the bus they rely on a headset/mike worn by the driver. As I said the visit to the centre was rushed and if I hadn't reminded the centre guide we would not have seen the mud pools at all. We did get to see two kiwis, which was great. Can't say I would recommend the tour as for $219 each it really didn't represent good value for money. Read more Written February 1, 2024
• Gawne67 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Cruise NZ. You can't go wrong booking with shoretripsandtours. Getting two amazing sites into one day trip sold it for us. Rotorua Maori Village and Hobbiton in one tour, with Hungi pie ,corn and a beer at the Green Dragon, along with a great tour guide in Peter. Dont be afraid to book when on your next cruise to NZ. We went as a group of 5 and loved it. best part of the cruise so far. Read more Written January 10, 2024
• chrishT2495QA 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Day trip to Hobbiton We journeyed to Hobbiton from Mount Maunganui (Tauranga 27th Dec) with Keith, our driver. Our coach was clean and on time. Shore Trips and Tours staff were organised, polite and friendly. Keith is a knowledgeable and safe driver who kept us entertained and on time. This tour of Hobbiton took advantage of the newly opened "hobbit hole" which features just before the Green Dragon Inn. A great day with a slightly different route back to the ship to take advantage of panoramas of Tauranga. At the time this tour was not available to be booked via the ship, which can be of concern to if you are late getting back to the ship for whatever reason. However Keith kept an eye on the clock and we were shipside not before time, but with plenty of time to spare. Read more Written January 5, 2024
• meganlF3997QD 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Gary is Top-notch We just finished the most amazing day at Hobbiton. Shore Trips & Tours was able to accommodate our group of 14 to pick us up from our cruise harbor and take us to Hobbiton and return us back safely at our harbor. We were so fortunate to have Gary as our driver and guide. He was kind, informative, efficient, generous and overall just the best. I wish every tour could be this easy and lovely. Thank you Gary for one of our best days in New Zealand! Read more Written January 2, 2024
• salt-life-0 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A great shore excursion to Hobbiton We stopped in Tauranga during a cruise and booked the Shore Trips & Tours excursion to Hobbiton, the film set for some of the Lord of the Rings movies. We couldn’t be happier with that choice. We were met right at the port exit and enjoyed an entertaining and informative drive with Keith (excellent driver) to Hobbiton. The organization of our Hobbiton visit itself was flawless. Shore Trips & Tours even booked a seat on the Hobbiton golf cart for me as I am walking impaired. The Hobbiton movie set is simply amazing. They now also have hobbit houses with the ability to tour the inside. An experience better than expected. We would book with Shore Trips & Tours again and highly recommend them. Read more Written January 1, 2024
• philg719 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Hobbiton Movie Set Tour Outstanding tour from Tauranga port, very informative, funny and professional tour guide (Keith), an excellent driver. Hobbiton Movie set was such an amazing experience which started from the time you get on the big green bus. The tour guide on the set, was so helpful in taking photos, as well as his knowledge. It was a nice touch to finish at the Green Dragon with an ale. I can totally recommend this Excursion by Shore Trips and Tours a very enjoyable day. Read more Written November 27, 2023
• lk1915 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Highly Recommend Shore Trips and Tours for ANY New Zealand Travel!! We used Shore Trips and Tours for ALL of our New Zealand tours with our New Zealand Cruise. We signed up on their site, determined which ones we wanted as they became available and signed up. The detail on where to meet the guides was excellent and exact. There was never a problem. Even when times changed on the cruise and I reached out during the cruise by e-mail, I had a quick response reassuring me of times. Shore Trips and Tours conducted the tour in Taraunga to Hobbiton, guide was Gary who went above and beyond to show us not only a great day but sharing information on everything we were seeing in the city and countryside all the way. The other locations, Shore Trips and Tours arranged with other excelled tour companies that were just as wonderful. I highly recommend turning all your on shore trips over to Shore Trips and Tours in New Zealand. Coming from the U.S. we wanted to see as much of New Zealand as possible, as cost effectively as possible (much less than the ships cost) with no problems. We got it all with Shore Trips and Tours. Thank you for making our trip perfect!! Read more Written November 22, 2023
• patkU2384RU 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Magical Hobbiton My wife and I did the Hobbiton tour. Hobbiton transports you to a magical land filled with lovely flowers, thousands of fluttering butterflies, lush green landscapes and towering trees. The tour guide ITiberius) was friendly and humorous. The entire experience was enchanting. Highly Recommended. Pat & Candida from the USA Read more Written March 19, 2023
• chapmanm30 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Refunds due to covid Recently had to cancel two tours with Shore Trips and Tours after contracting covid on the cruise around new Zealand. My refund was back in my bank for both tours before I arrived home. Will definitely be using Shore trips and Tours again Read more Written March 10, 2023
• Stoneylisa 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Super tour company I booked 2 tours first A tour of Christchurch with Kevin. Very informative & a great guide. Showed us Christchurch, punting on the Avon River, hoppy tram ride & Christchurch gondola. In all very impressed. Did The Hobbiton Express with Keith. Wonderful day, waited near on 10 years to go. Worth every penny. Read more Written March 10, 2023
• Fran M 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Rotorua Highlights Te Puia Culture and Geothermals A fantastic day from Tauranga to Rotorua. Brian led the the group .. he was a virtual encyclopaedia and the trip went like clockwork. The geysers were spectacular and we learned a lot about Māori. Read more Written February 24, 2023

More to explore in Tauranga

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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Shore Excursion: The Ultimate Hobbiton and Lord of the Rings Movie Set Tour provided by Shore Trips & Tours

• Rotorua Geothermal Geysers Tour
• Full-Day Small-Group Rotorua Shore Excursion From Tauranga
• Te Puia Maori Cultural Centre and Rotorua Sightseeing
• Lord of the Rings Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
• Tauranga Shore Excursion with Hobbiton and Rotorua Geyser
• Hobbiton & Tauranga Highlights Shore Excursion
• From Tauranga - Magical Hobbiton Movie Set - Private Shore Excursion
• Private Tour Tauranga Highlights Shore Excursion up to 8 passengers
• From Tauranga: Whaka Living Maori Village - Rotorua
• Waitomo Caves & The Kiwi House Exclusive Tour
• Private Tour Rotorua Shore Excursion
• The Best of Tauranga and Rotorua Highlights Tour
• Rotorua White Water Rafting
• Rotorua Tour including Gondola Ride and Luge
• 15,000ft Tandem Skydive in Bay of Plenty
• 4hr Shore Excursion - History and Tasting Tour FREE Kiwifruit Tasting
• Shore Excursion: Local Tasting Tour from Tauranga
• 2 hours sightseeing Minibus Tour of Tauranga City and surrounding Shores
• V8 TRIKE - 1.5 hour Tauranga & Mt Maunganui City Tour
• Small-Group Bay of Plenty and Tauranga Tour

Hobbiton Movie Set Tours

Cruises to Tauranga

About Cruising to Tauranga

A cruise ship visit to Tauranga (pronounced "Tao-ronger") is like getting three port calls for the price of one: Tauranga, Mount Maunganui and Rotorua. Situated in the Bay of Plenty, Tauranga deserves a half-day or more of exploration. The busy city has several historical highlights (like the Elms Mission Station, said to be the oldest building in the Bay of Plenty), interesting architecture (check out the Brain Watkins House, built with local kauri wood) and tasty seafood-focused dining at the restaurants and pubs along the revitalized waterfront.

Cruise ships actually dock in the nearby town of Mount Maunganui, which is also worth visiting. There, visitors can embrace nature and the outdoors at the surfing hotspot of Mount Beach, with easy to strenuous hiking at Mount Maunganui, and in soothingly hot or warm saltwater pools at the mountain's base. Urbanites can also find lots of shopping and restaurants on busy Maunganui Road.

Finally, there's a third option that's also quite popular as a shore excursion: the town and region of Rotorua, about 75 minutes from the port. The area is a center for geothermal activity (including historic thermal baths) and Maori culture. Shore excursions to Rotorua will typically visit a geothermal park like Te Whakarewarea, Hells Gate or Waiotapu, which features the Lady Knox geyser, a natural phenomenon that erupts every day at 10:15 a.m. Other highlights may include bubbling mud pools, steaming springs, more geysers, spas, waterfalls, visits to one of the region's dozen pretty lakes, and the city of Rotorua proper. The trip is not for the nasally sensitive, as the hot springs and geysers are often accompanied by an ever-present sulphurous "rotten egg" smell.

Sadly, cruise travelers usually do not have enough time to visit all three destinations in one port call. Most choose to either stay in the neighboring Tauranga and Mount Maunganui or take the long shore excursion to the Rotorua area. Whichever way you go, you will not be disappointed.

More about Tauranga

Why cruise to tauranga, tauranga cruise port facilities.

We found you 196 cruise s

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A beachside town with nearby mountains, thermal pools, geysers and waterfalls

With so many options for things to do, passengers are only limited by time

Rotorua mud pools are a fascinating excursion, but Tauranga is a lovely place to admire the Bay of Plenty

There is a helpful i-SITE tourist office just 150 feet or so from the dock where visitors can pick up information, book tours or be directed to a nearby bus to Tauranga's center. Another 150 feet away is the center of Mount Maunganui, which also features shopping, dining, ATM's, post offices and a host of typical city amenities.

Good to Know?

Uber-friendly locals will stop to ask anyone perusing a city map if they need help, so don't be afraid to take advantage of their assistance. Also, remember that New Zealanders drive on the left side of the road, an important safety note when crossing the street.

Getting Around?

On Foot: All of Mount Maunganui's attractions are within a 10-minute walk of the port.

By Bus: Although some lines arrange for free buses, the only option on our visit was a city bus with direct service from Mount Maunganui to Tauranga. Leaving relatively frequently from the i-SITE office at the port, the bus costs a few New Zealand dollars per person one-way, and it takes 20 minutes to get to the middle of the commercial district of Tauranga. The bus drops passengers off at the convenient Tauranga i-SITE office and, from there, all of Tauranga's top attractions, shopping and dining options are within a 15-minute walk.

By Taxi: Taxis are available at the i-SITE office at the port, but if you are just heading into Tauranga, the city bus is the way to go. If you are going to Rotorua, a taxi or shore excursion would be your best bet.

Currency & Best Way to Get Money?

The local currency is the New Zealand dollar. ATM's and banks are plentiful in both Tauranga and Mount Maunganui and are usually the cheapest way to get New Zealand dollars. Credit cards are widely accepted most everywhere.

English, with a distinct Kiwi accent, is the predominant language in Tauranga and all of New Zealand, although you may hear some Maori being spoken there.

Many British-isms have found their way into the language -- like "brilliant" or "loo." However, the most unusual is the local use of "sweet as" -- meaning good or cool. It's generally used when something pleases the speaker, such as a local responding, "It's sweet as," when asked about a particular hike, wine or local beer.

Where You're Docked?

Ships dock at Salisbury Wharf at the Port of Tauranga, which is actually in the town of Mount Maunganui.

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Tauranga, New, Zealand Shore Excursions

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Celebrity Solstice New Zealand Shore Excursions - Tauranga/Akaroa/Bay of Islands

By ELISHAMAREE89 , September 11, 2017 in Australia & New Zealand Cruisers

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ELISHAMAREE89

I am new to this forum, so I may be posing this in the wrong section?!

Just hoping for some advice from anyone that has cruised around New Zealand regarding Shore Excursions.

We are confused as to what tours to choose in Tauranga, Akaoroa and Bay of Islands (we have selected tours in other ports already)

We will be booking the tours through the cruise-line as we prefer the peace of mind.

I have listed the tours we are leaning towards below..but we are open to suggestions. I am concerned that as there are so many different tours on offer we may choose the wrong one and be disappointed that we missed seeing a particular place in each of the ports. Obviously we cant do or see everything in such limited time!

We are in late 20's and have cruised before with Celebrity (Mediterranean cruise last year) and we booked most shore excursions for that cruise through the ship.We were very happy with them and the amount we saw in each port, so we are hoping for the same experiences this time.

TAURANGA: Jet boat and mud pools (Hells Gate) - Includes bathing in mudpools and swimming in hot pools after.

Hells Gate tour (not including mudpools/hotpools)

AKAROA: Akaroa jet boat and then explore town on our own.

Christchurch on your own (Transfer to Christchurch then we have free time to explore - we were hoping to go to the gondola and perhaps punting on the avon and explore the city.

Christchurch punting on the Avon and gondola - All included in the tour but will have limited free time to explore on our own.

BAY OF ISLANDS: Not sure what we should do in this port as we will see alot of the islands on the way in on the ship. As we are from Australia and we live by the beach dolphins and boat trips are something we see/do alot, so we are not really interested in the dolphin tours or boat trips.

Any advice is greatly appreciated :-)

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We did a tour to Arthur's Pass a few years back with Princess.

https://www.princess.com/excursion/exDetails.do?tourCode=AK1-110

If Celebrity do anything similar I would highly recommend. This was one of the reasons we have flown back to NZ twice since for almost 2 months to see more.

https://www.celebritycruises.com/spa/#/pcp-excursions/single-detail?itemID=100000002432655243 seems to cover some of the same parts.

Can only suggest you sample what you can and fly back later to see in more detail.

From reading your post it looks like you like to be organised. We have cruised NZ 3 times and enjoyed the ports on our own. Cruise is all about ports. You will not see New Zealand on a cruise. Ports are the highlights. Why travel distance just to soak in the mud. New Zealand deserves proper land holiday.with car hire and time,

In Bay of islands we took free bus to Paihia, looked around town and markets then walked back, stopped at Maori Marae then to Maori Museum, Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Maori War canoes, Maori meeting house with show. Fantastic day on our own.

Akaroa is nice little town to walk on your own. We have seen groups walking following the flag. We love our freedom.. To the right is lighthouse and monument. To the left is nice town to admire and stop for a meal and beer. A wonderful day.

Tauranga.port is located near Mount Maunganui. We walked over the Mount Maunganui for wonderful views and down to Maunganui waterfront.. Another time we took helicopter ride for $35 when it was available..

Aus Traveller

From Tauranga I recommend a trip to Rotorua. A tour can be bought on the dock or you can travel by hire car.

Akaroa - I advise against going to Christchurch. The centre of the city is still devastated after the earthquake so there is not a log of exploring to do in the city. It is a long way to drive just to go punting on the Avon. From Akaroa you can take a dolphin cruise.

Bay of Islands - take the ferry over the Russell and wander around. There is usually a market near where the ship's tender will drop you off (town of Pahia).

Have a look at Hinterland Tours. My wife and granddaughter used them when on Diamond Princess in NZ, January 2016. Very impressive tour operator and as usual a bit better pricing than ship's shorex.

MicCanberra

Welcome to cruise critic, Bay of islands is a fairly easy port to do on your own if you wish. The tenders take you to the marina wharf right by the Waitangi treaty grounds.

There is also the shuttle to take you to Pahia. Then you can take the ferry from Pahia to Russell, which is easy and Russell is an interesting historic area with some nice points of interest to see.

Welcome to cruise critic, Bay of islands is a fairly easy port to do on your own if you wish. The tenders take you to the marina wharf right by the Waitangi treaty grounds. There is also the shuttle to take you to Pahia. Then you can take the ferry from Pahia to Russell, which is easy and Russell is an interesting historic area with some nice points of interest to see.

Maybe different ships take their tenders to different wharfs. We have only tendered into Pahia. A ferry goes from there to Russell near the Waitangi Treaty grounds (entry fee applies!).

Not sure where in Pahia they took you as they generally cannot use the ferry wharf.

But we have always gone to the little wharf at Waitangi (by the bridge) which is just down from the Waitangi treaty grounds.

Not sure where in Pahia they took you as they generally cannot use the ferry wharf. But we have always gone to the little wharf at Waitangi (by the bridge) which is just down from the Waitangi treaty grounds.

We have been to Bay of Islands a few times with Princess and have tendered to a jetty near the ferry wharf. Immediately 'inland' is the park with a craft market.

We were on the Solstice and stopped at these places in 2016

We walked to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds at the Bay of Islands. It took 5 minutes to walk and I use a walking stick. On the jetty we were given a pass? that gave us a discount when we payed at the entrance. We did exactly the same tour as the ship's passengers and it ended up costing us for two people almost half what the ship was charging for one. The Treaty grounds had the best show of traditional Maori dancing that we have seen in several trips to New Zealand.

At Tauranga - look at the thermal pools, the geysers etc I'm assuming this is the Hells Gate tour? If you decide to do a private tour instead you can often go in a small minivan for half the cost of ships tour.

At Akaroa I have done the Punting on Avon and Gondola Tour. It was a long quiet day but very interesting. More aimed at those that are older. Is the Antarctic Centre on the list? I took my 18 yo to that a several months ago. He found looking at Christchurch fascinating and sad and the Antarctic Centre with the ride in an Antarctic vehicle one of the highlights of his day. My husband took our 27yo and his fiance on a trip on the bay and exploring Akaroa itself. They enjoyed that too. Because of earthquake activity in NZ especially around Christchurch and the distance from there to Akaroa it is one that I happily paid for a Ship's Tour for at least the first visit.

We did a tour to Arthur's Pass a few years back with Princess. https://www.princess.com/excursion/exDetails.do?tourCode=AK1-110 If Celebrity do anything similar I would highly recommend. This was one of the reasons we have flown back to NZ twice since for almost 2 months to see more. https://www.celebritycruises.com/spa/#/pcp-excursions/single-detail?itemID=100000002432655243 seems to cover some of the same parts. Can only suggest you sample what you can and fly back later to see in more detail.

Thankyou for your reply. I have looked at that tour although it was quiet expensive so wasn't sure if it was worth it.

Did you do the jet boat component aswell?

We are definitely wanting to see more of the interior and countryside as opposed to the cities so this might be the way to go. Appreciate your help.

We were on the Solstice and stopped at these places in 2016 We walked to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds at the Bay of Islands. It took 5 minutes to walk and I use a walking stick. On the jetty we were given a pass? that gave us a discount when we payed at the entrance. We did exactly the same tour as the ship's passengers and it ended up costing us for two people almost half what the ship was charging for one. The Treaty grounds had the best show of traditional Maori dancing that we have seen in several trips to New Zealand.   At Tauranga - look at the thermal pools, the geysers etc I'm assuming this is the Hells Gate tour? If you decide to do a private tour instead you can often go in a small minivan for half the cost of ships tour.   At Akaroa I have done the Punting on Avon and Gondola Tour. It was a long quiet day but very interesting. More aimed at those that are older. Is the Antarctic Centre on the list? I took my 18 yo to that a several months ago. He found looking at Christchurch fascinating and sad and the Antarctic Centre with the ride in an Antarctic vehicle one of the highlights of his day. My husband took our 27yo and his fiance on a trip on the bay and exploring Akaroa itself. They enjoyed that too. Because of earthquake activity in NZ especially around Christchurch and the distance from there to Akaroa it is one that I happily paid for a Ship's Tour for at least the first visit.

Thankyou for your help Suzi. There are so many options! The bus ride from Akaroa to Christchurch is very long so I am thinking we might skip Christchurch and do one of the tours that show more of the countryside. The hell's gate tour in Tauranga includes entry into the thermal park to look at the geysers etc aswell.

From Tauranga I recommend a trip to Rotorua. A tour can be bought on the dock or you can travel by hire car.   Akaroa - I advise against going to Christchurch. The centre of the city is still devastated after the earthquake so there is not a log of exploring to do in the city. It is a long way to drive just to go punting on the Avon. From Akaroa you can take a dolphin cruise.   Bay of Islands - take the ferry over the Russell and wander around. There is usually a market near where the ship's tender will drop you off (town of Pahia).

Thankyour for your advice. I think we are going to give Christchurch a miss and instead opt for the tranzalpine shore excursion.

Great, thankyou. I will check them out!

Thankyou for your reply. I have looked at that tour although it was quiet expensive so wasn't sure if it was worth it.   Did you do the jet boat component aswell?   We are definitely wanting to see more of the interior and countryside as opposed to the cities so this might be the way to go. Appreciate your help.

No, we did the jet boat (Skippers Canyon, check their site and YouTube) on a later tour. Interesting bus ride. [emoji12]

I'm sure a land tour won't disappoint.

Swissmiss6253

I loved the Akaroa dolphin cruise. It is short and easy to organise yourself. My kids where there for the dogs who spot the dolphins

https://www.akaroadolphins.co.nz/contact/book-now/?gclid=CMPFlrDdt9YCFZ0HKgodPAcE7w

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Tauranga Shore Excursions: Maori Culture and History Comes Alive

Exploring foreign lands on a cruise vacation is the ultimate opportunity for individuals to learn about a new culture and country. Recent years have seen New Zealand emerge as one of the world's premiere destinations for cultural discovery and natural beauty, and few cities in the region are as accommodating and fun as the North Island metropolis you get to explore on Tauranga excursions.

As the most heavily populated city in the Bay of Plenty Region,   Tauranga   is a modern destination with classic appeal. The city is located at the head of its eponymous harbor, meaning that the presence of the sea can be felt throughout. This harbor is also protected by Matakana   Island, explaining how   Tauranga   earned its name, which is Maori for "a sheltered anchorage."

While the city is the sixth largest urban center in the country, most of the area surrounding Tauranga   is horticultural land that is used to grow much of the produce sold in and exported from the country. This includes the popular tangelos and kiwifruit that the region is known for.

Tauranga   shore excursions offer you a tour through the natural wonders of the   Rotorua   area and its many the   Pohutu   geyser. There is also a national carving and weaving school that displays the work of local craftsmen.

The natural beauty abounds at Rainbow Springs, a 22-acre preserve that is a "must-see" on Tauranga shore excursions. From the trout pools and native birds to the 135 different species of tree, this is a great destination for hikers and natural tourists.

Of course, natural relaxation is easy to find in the area as well. Particularly at the Polynesian Day Spa, a facility that features spa and massage therapies, and offers dips in the natural hot spring pools found in the region.

Explore all these great destinations on Tauranga shore excursions through Princess Cruises.

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Cruises to Tauranga, New Zealand

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Tauranga New Zealand Port Guide

There’s plenty to see and do in the Bay of Plenty, as this part of New Zealand is so aptly named. In Tauranga, a mix of quirky sites and extraordinary natural attractions make it easy to spend the day here and get a sense of the town’s completely unique personality. The harbor and port town make for a popular beach resort by the name of Mount Maunganui. On your New Zealand cruise , you’ll find out why Tauranga is the Bay of Plenty’s shining gem.

Waterfront restaurants and cafes give Tauranga a sense of glamour. Aside from that, it’s hard not to feel swept up in the flurry of activities travelers can do here, like taking a dip in a hot mud bath. Like Auckland, Tauranga’s food scene offers cuisines of every variety. Of course, Tauranga doesn’t forget its Maori history, and you can tour traditional villages to learn about their ancient and contemporary Polynesian culture.

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Top sights & attractions for cruises to tauranga, elms mission house.

As one of the oldest buildings in New Zealand, the pretty Elms Mission House and its garden is of important cultural significance for Tauranga. Tour the Elms Mission House for a detailed understanding of missionary settlement and efforts in the Tauranga area. A leisurely walk through the grounds and the extensive library is a thrill for history buffs.

Mount Maunganui

Mount Maunganui, nicknamed “the Mount” is a must-do activity while in Tauranga. The Mount watches over Tauranga Harbor, close to the cruise port. According to Maori legend, the mountain, named Mauao, is a sacred place with healing properties. From the base, it’s only a 45-minute walk to get up to a lookout point for wide views across the harbour and back to sea.

Go swimming in the sheltered waters of Pilot Bay near Mount Maunganui, where you can spot and may even find yourself swimming alongside wild dolphins. The beaches in New Zealand attract thousands of surfers and swimmers each year. You can rent equipment for surfing or snorkeling, or simply spend the day lounging beachside.

Learn More About Tauranga Shore Excursions

Top things to do in tauranga, take a geothermal mud bath.

Neighboring Rotorua, is a major center for Maori culture and geothermal wonders like Hell’s Gate, where you can walk through an active landscape steaming and bubbling with underground activity. If you’re craving some natural relaxation during your time in New Zealand you could take a dip in a mud bath, fed by the largest geothermal mud volcano in New Zealand, or check out the magnificent hot waterfall.

Experience Maori Culture at Rotorua

No Tauranga cruise is complete without experiencing and honoring the Maori culture that has shaped this region. Take a trip to Te Puia Maori cultural centre or stop in and meet Maori residents at Whakarewarewa village, where locals will show you how they live alongside the geothermal springs and use their unique properties to power their daily routines. Sample Maori cuisine and see a show featuring traditional music and dance including the famous haka.

Tour a Kiwifruit Orchard

Most of the world’s kiwifruit comes from New Zealand. During your Tauranga cruise, you can tour a kiwifruit orchard, pick your own kiwifruit, and learn about the growth, production, and trading of this native fruit.

Top Food and Drink Spots Near the Tauranga Cruise Port

Satori Lounge

Address: 309 Maunganui Road, Tauranga, NZ

Fresh sushi and Japanese fusion are the specialties at Satori Lounge, whether you’re a sashimi or eel lover or you prefer the slightly more familiar California roll. In fact, Satori has nine different spins on a California roll to choose from. They offer dairy-free cream cheese and gluten-free tempura or panko which is a huge win for those with dietary restrictions on a Tauranga cruise.

Harbourside

Address: Old Yacht Club Building 150 The Strand, Tauranga, New Zealand

Harbourside has the waterfront views and the generous mains you need during a big day of exploration, whether that’s beer-battered fish and chips or a pan-roasted chicken breast with delicious, creamy pancetta pasta. Fresh seafood done up in clever ways are staples on the menu, and you’re promised the freshest catch of the day here. Lunch is served from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM, and the place opens back up for dinner each day at 5 PM.  

Le Petit Four Cafe & Patisserie

Address: 65 Chapel Street, Tauranga, NZ

To indulge your sweet tooth after a day of hiking or swimming in Tauranga, try Le Petit Four Cafe & Patisserie, which specializes in beautiful cakes, freshly baked bread, and pastries, plus breakfast favorites and sandwiches for the lunchtime crowd. Vegetarian-friendly options are a huge draw, too. It’s a good spot to grab a morning or early afternoon coffee before continuing on with your tour of Tauranga.

Johney’s Dumpling House

Address: 107 Newton St, Mount Maunganui, Tauranga, New Zealand

Craving dumplings in a cozy, no-frills atmosphere? Johney’s is the spot in Tauranga for that. The dumplings here consistently receive rave reviews and come in all sorts of flavors. The cocktails warrant a try, too.

Culture & History of the Tauranga Cruise Port

In the Maori language, the word “Tauranga” means “resting place,” which perfectly describes this beach resort town with its easy-going spirit. The  early Maori settlers arrived on the Takitimu, an ocean-going canoe known as a waka, and settled in the area as early as the 1100s. Later, this part of New Zealand was aptly named the “Bay of Plenty” by English explorer Captain James Cook in the 18th century. Missionaries and European settlers started flocking to Tauranga as early as the 1830s. The status of Tauranga as a port city and a hub for trade brought jobs and economic development to the area in the mid-20th century. Today, Tauranga has immense respect for its past and pays homage to its Maori culture through events and programming as the city continues to grow and evolve into a business hub for New Zealand.

Tauranga Port Facilities & Location

Cruise ships will dock at Mount Maunganui at the Salisbury Wharf. Both the beach and the Mount Maunganui main street area are just a short walk for travelers who wish to stretch their legs after time at sea. You can also take a shuttle further into Tauranga from the port. The waterfront is beautiful, and travelers can continue onto their shore excursions or break off on their own itineraries from there.

Transportation in Tauranga

Taxis are common in the area, and you can book ahead or call if you have the contact details for a local taxi provider. You can even catch an Uber. There’s a shuttle for cruise passengers from the port to Mount Maunganui every half hour, six days a week (not available on Sundays). An excursion with Celebrity will take care of any transportation needs you may have getting to and from your excursion. Of course, you can also rent a car to get around for the day if you wish to get behind the wheel and see Tauranga via car.

Shopping Near the Tauranga Cruise Port

The main street of the beachside resort suburb called Mount Maunganui features plenty of fashion boutiques and clothing stores for an interesting afternoon of shopping. Pohutukawa Gallery sells indigenous arts and handmade pottery if you’re looking for a souvenir that was made by locals. Plus, bars and cafes line main street, so you won’t have difficulty grabbing a bite to eat, either.

Local Currency & Tipping Customs

Use the New Zealand dollar (NZD) while stopped on cruises to Tauranga and other cities in New Zealand. Tipping isn’t customary here, so you don’t have to worry about leaving a tip for taxi drivers, servers, or bartenders. You can exchange currency at banks and ATMs across the area. When you’re shopping, taxes will already be included in the total price, and you’ll quickly notice that credit cards are commonly accepted almost everywhere in New Zealand.

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