Things to do in Tauranga
The word Tauranga is the maori name given to the region meaning “safe anchorage” Geographically Tauranga sits within the central North island of New Zealand, Tauranga encompasses many small towns in including the famous Mount Maunganui township. It is also conveniently situated on the coast of the Bay of Plenty, New Zealand. This makes it a perfect playground for anyone wanting sun, sand and surf which it is most famously known.
As a destination it offers so much more than just being the number one beach in New Zealand and a top ten beach of the world. Awesome activities and attractions are available, some are world class. Now lets add some real cool activities.
Top Activities & Accomodation
Lets start with the best activities and attractions. We will categorise them as best as possible and we will also suggest a days itinerary that you could follow if only in the area for a limited time.
Bay Explorer (Number #1 Boat activity in Tauranga)
Dolphin and Wildlife Cruise. Offers an award winning marine wildlife experience that suits all age groups. Every cruise out customers bring back memories. Dolphins, and seasonal Seals, Orca, Whales, Sharks, Fish, Birds and even exotic visitors like Sunfish and giant leatherback Turtles can be found. This is more than a boat cruise, its entertaining, you get involved and you will learn so much about the ocean, the islands, reefs, currents, species and how nature can set you free.
Easily bookable on-line
Kewpie Cruises
The “iconic” boat. known as the peoples boat of Tauranga. Ideal for families visiting the Mount. Departures are from the equally “iconic” Mauao (Mount Maunganui Mountain). You can book the Scenic Harbour Tour which runs 5 times a day from the Pilot wharf at the base of Mauao. Its a beautiful harbour Kewpie visits the shores of Matakana island and New Zealands largest export port, the Port of Tauranga. Great short activity with a great commentary about the region and the harbours history. Te Awanui is the maori name given to this place.
Book or enquire
Waimarino Kayaks Tours
Crazy how the smallest things in Tauranga are perhaps the biggest attraction about. If your into nature at night this is for you. Glow-worms in a beautiful setting only accessible by kayak. Start your Evening Glow Worm tour nestled amongst the trees at Lake McLaren Falls Park. Appreciate fine New Zealand wines and delicious cheeses while watching the sunset over the rolling hills. At dusk our guides will lead you into the calm waters to discover the magic of the enchanting glow worm canyon. the narrow high-sided canyon that you enter feels like your surrounded in stars. departures are just before sunset. All this with food, wine and professional guides.
Get more info and the scoop on departures
Tauranga Sky Dive
Recognised as the best skydive in the north island. Yes your adventure starts with a 20-minute scenic flight with views of Mount Maunganui and the beaches expanding along the coast. As you ascend higher up, you will see offshore islands, White Island, Tuhua (Mayor) island, Motiti island, Karewa island, even Mount Ruapehu and the Rotorua Lakes, possibly the Coromandel and even Mount Taranaki. If that doesn’t take your breath away, free-falling back towards Tauranga at 200km/h on a tandem skydive will!
Wanderlust Backpackers
Come in and explore Tauranga’s 5 Star Qualmark hostel and waterfront accommodation, it’s more than just a place to stay, their renovated historic building, is the preferred stop for travellers and young adventurers wanting high quality, affordable rooms, from backpacker hostel style dorms to upmarket double ensuites. A sister hostel to the multiple award winning Pacific Coast Lodge and Backpackers, this high quality offering of accommodation in Tauranga, has a great vibe and million-dollar harbour views – for great value. Come and make your destination part of your journey too
Keep an eye out too for our next write up about “Free things to do in Tauranga”
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
Ph: 021 605 968
Intnl: +64 21 605 968
Accredited by QUALMARK Tourism New Zealand’s proud mark of excellence. 
Endorsed by Department of Conservation New Zealand to interact with marine wildlife.
Check out Bay Explorers reviews on Trip Advisor New Zealand!