Tauranga
Tauranga is the urban heart of the Bay of Plenty region, and New Zealand’s fifth largest city, boasting around 125,000 residents. You’ll find natural beauty and adventure in abundance here, hence the reason so many holiday makers flood the area in peak season. Surrounded by clear Pacific Ocean and bathed in vitamin D, Tauranga is the ideal destination for a relaxing break or an active getaway.
What comes to mind when you think of New Zealand? For us, it’s open spaces, nature, marine and wildlife, and of course good coffee. Tauranga combines many amazing parts of Kiwi culture and over recent years has developed into a hub for those seeking an active, healthy and sociable lifestyle. On the East Coast of New Zealand’s North Island, Tauranga sits aside the water’s edge, making it a popular spot for boating, surfing swimming and stand up paddle boarding.
Tauranga can be translated as ‘sheltered waters’, a name that pays homage to the indigenous Maori people who have inhabited the area for around 600 years. They originally settled in the area for its pleasant climate, fertile lands and welcoming harbour.
Although we may be biased, we cannot speak highly enough of Tauranga and the Bay of Plenty Region. Whether you’re a native holiday-maker, or you’re travelling from further afield, new and exciting experiences are plentiful. You won’t regret visiting Tauranga!
Book Your Adventure
Come join us on the water to experience the BEST DAY EVER in the Bay of Plenty! Use our easy online booking system to secure your spot now!
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