Tauranga – Morning Sightseeing LT57CS

Enjoy a taste of Tauranga! This interesting small-group tour is perfect for those who want to get a feel for how the city and local region ticks, allowing you to see places you won’t be able to explore on your own. Your local guide will ensure you have a truly great morning on this popular shore excursion.

Admire the beautiful harbour and beaches that draw so many tourists to the Bay. See million-dollar beachfront houses overlooking one of New Zealand’s best surf beaches at Mt Maunganui, all while you take your time at the Cenotaph Memorial which explains the significance of our ANZAC Day and role during WW2.

For history buffs, you’ll also travel through the older suburbs of Tauranga and past the Elms Mission Station, known for being Tauranga’s oldest colonial structure. You’ll get to learn about the New Zealand Wars, which was fought between the British forces and local Maori tribes during the 1860s. We pass the old fort of Monmouth Redoubt, before exploring the Gate Pa Battle Site – an important and fascinating part of Tauranga’s history where the British fought the local Maori and came off second best!

Relish the chance to take home some famous Manuka honey when we stop at a local honey shop where you can enjoy honey tastings, see the bees in action, and do some shopping for great locally made souvenirs. Then travel past Kiwifruit and Avocado orchards and alongside the beautiful Wairoa River on your way to a panoramic viewpoint (weather permitting). From the Minden Lookout you will be able to see a full panorama of Tauranga harbour, hundreds of orchards, the offshore islands, and even your ship berthed at the Mount Maunganui wharf far below.

The highlight for many is the final stop at Bobby’s Fresh Fish Market where a Fish and Chip lunch has been included before returning to your ship berthed at port. Alternatively, you can depart the tour here and explore Tauranga city centre on your own, with the shuttles back to the ship just a short walk away.