Statue of Tangaroa
The statue of Tangaroa – bronze in colour – represents the Tangaroa, God of the Sea in Maori culture, whose duty is to protect the sea and all of its inhabitants. Sculpturist Frank Szirmay erected the statue in 1976, where it stood grasping a taiaha (a long club fighting staff) and watching proudly over the sea for decades. In recent years, with the blessing of local Kaumatua Morehu Ngatoko and Kihi Ngatai, the statue of Tangaroa has been moved to face harbour visitors, to determine whether their intentions are friendly.
Frank Szirmay portrayed Tangaroa as a crouching warrior, performing the Wero, a traditional Maori challenge given during the welcome ceremony to test the visitors’ intentions. In accordance with Maori legend, Tangaroa was son of Rangi, the sky father, and Papatuanuku, the earth mother. The statue was a gift to the people of Tauranga by one of the former mayors – Sir Bob Owens, to celebrate the centennial of the Ports of Tauranga. The area is drenched in traditional Maori culture with interesting finds with fascinating backstories at every turn.
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Since returning home to take the helm at Bay Explorer, Emily has focused on creating responsible and sustainable marine wildlife experiences. Guests can explore scenic harbour cruises in Tauranga Harbour, eco-friendly wildlife tours, and trips to Matakana Island, all designed to be educational, safe, and unforgettable. Her private charters remain a popular choice for corporate events, birthday parties, and special group experiences, offering a flexible and personalised way to enjoy Tauranga dolphin encounters and up-close wildlife sightings.
Over the years, Emily has introduced thousands of visitors to New Zealand’s marine environment, fostering awareness, respect, and conservation of marine wildlife. She also works alongside Kewpie Cruises in Mount Maunganui, Tauranga, an iconic tour business running daily scenic harbour cruises and Matakana Island trips, making it one of the area’s most-loved Tauranga tourist activities
With her experience and passion, Emily has introduced thousands of visitors to New Zealand’s marine environment. Her mission is to foster awareness, respect, and conservation of marine wildlife, providing unforgettable wildlife experiences for families, friends, and corporate groups alike.
BAY EXPLORER also operates alongside KEWPIE CRUISES www.kewpiecruises.co.nz in Mount Maunganui, Tauranga. It's an icon tour business in Tauranga now, taking passengers daily on scenic harbour cruises in Tauranga harbour and to Matakana Island.
“Its now part of the local pride in the area, the best of Tauranga tourist activities”. An ideal option if you are limited for time and looking for activities in Mt Maunganui.
Bay Explorer
Bay Explorer are local boat tour specialists who are passionate about all our region has to offer. We are proudly Kiwi owned and operated, with plenty of experience running day trips from Tauranga.
Departure Point
Corner of Wharf Street & The Strand
Tauranga
New Zealand 3110