Volcanic History
New Zealand has a strong presence of volcanos, geysers, volcanic lakes and hot springs, making it home to some of the world’s most fascinating geothermal activity. Many of these features are clustered around the North Island, and particularly the Taupo Volcanic Zone, where the Earth’s crust is thought to be as little as 16km thick. A lot of New Zealand’s landscape can be attributed to past volcanic eruptions and these draw in many tourists each year. The Taupo Volcanic Zone extends from the centre of the Bay of Plenty region northwards to the White Island and the area is dotted with geological fault lines, geothermal activity and volcanos.
The White Island is one of the world’s most accessible live volcanos, and can be found just 49km off the coast of Whakatane, in eastern Bay of Plenty. The White Island’s peak reaches 321m above sea level, however this is just the tip of a much grander submarine mountain, with 70% of the volcano’s mass rising from the seafloor deep below.
This unique structure allows visitors a direct look into the crater complex, without the usual steep mountain climb first. Visitors look on in awe at the hot volcanic streams, gassy mud pits and lake of steaming acidic activity. The White Island volcano illuminates the skies around with the most remarkable colour display from its discharge of sulphur, rock and minerals. It’s a wonder on our doorstep and we recommend taking advantage of its accessibility and grandeur.
Tahua – Major Island
Even closer, and just 35km north beyond the shores of Tauranga, an impressive dormant shield volcano ‘Tuhua’ or Mayor Island can be found. Thankfully its last eruption was over 6,000 years ago but this past volcanic activity has shaped the earth into fascinating land formations.
The most striking feature of Tuhua is its natural glass coating, which was formed by a rapid cooling of silica-rich lava. This is called the black obsidian, which was highly valued by early Maori for its usefulness in creating cutting tools and weapons. The island is surrounded by marine reserve – a popular spot for divers exploring the reef and its many subtropical visitors like kingfish and pink and blue maomao.
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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