The Best of Tauranga Private Walking Tour

Tauranga , New Zealand

The Best of Tauranga Private Walking Tour

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About this experience

Enjoy a private, exclusive tour with your own local guide. With a professional guide, you will visit the most charming places in the city. You will have a chance to explore the city while hearing fascinating facts and legends. Why is Tauranga known as a lifestyle and tourism destination? Tauranga has many outlying islands and reefs, which make it a notable tourist destination for traveling scuba divers and marine enthusiasts. You will be surprised how many stories are in hidden streets, buildings, and corners of Tauranga. Your charming guide will tell you what is special and unique about living in this city. It is perfect for people visiting the city for the first time and who want to get the most out of it.

* A local and charismatic guide will guide you.
* You will hear the stories and legends of the city.
* You will visit charming places.

Available options

The Best of Tauranga Private Walking Tour

What's included

Professional local guide services

Detailed itinerary

The elms is one of the oldest heritage sites in Tauranga and located in the historical city centre. In one hectare property, you will see listed heritage buildings, and nationally significant collections all set within a diverse and tranquil garden setting. It is a must-see destination of the region because for generations it was used as a place for the community to gather and learn-this tradition continues today and you will see expensive grounds of the Elms area, historical house, and library.

The Art Lounge NZ is an exciting and vibrant fine art gallery and sophisticated events venue in downtown Tauranga. At the gallery, you will see exhibitions and events that aim to inspire, encourage, educate and entertain while recognizing excellence in the visual arts.

The Tauranga Art Gallery opened in 2017 and was designed to meet modern art gallery standards. A key focus of the gallery is education and aligning the exhibitions and events are taking place there to fit in with the national education curriculum. The gallery holds exhibitions of historical and contemporary art and these include a mix touring exhibitions from other institutions and individual artist projects.

It is a Victorian-style square villa built in 1881 that has high cultural significance and is one of the last six surviving single-family homes in New Zealand with the original contents predominantly intact and functions as a house museum.

What's not included

The Elms Admission fee

Brain Watkins House Museum (Tauranga Historical Society) Admission fee

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

About Tauranga

Tauranga is a picturesque coastal city in New Zealand's North Island, known for its stunning beaches, lush parks, and vibrant waterfront. It offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and relaxed coastal living, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and excitement.

Top Attractions

Mount Maunganui

Mount Maunganui, also known as Mauao, is an iconic volcanic mountain with stunning views of the Bay of Plenty. It's a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the beautiful coastline.

Nature 2-3 hours for a round trip hike Free

Tauranga Art Gallery

The Tauranga Art Gallery showcases a diverse collection of contemporary and historical artworks, including works by local, national, and international artists.

Museum 1-2 hours Free entry, donations welcome

McLaren Falls Park

McLaren Falls Park is a beautiful park with a large lake, walking trails, and a variety of wildlife. It's a popular spot for picnics, fishing, and water sports.

Nature Half-day or full-day visit Free entry, fees may apply for some activities

Tauranga Waterfront

The Tauranga Waterfront is a beautiful area with a mix of sandy beaches, parks, and cafes. It's a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the scenic views of the Bay of Plenty.

Beach Half-day or full-day visit Free

Waimarino Adventure Park

Waimarino Adventure Park offers a range of outdoor activities, including kayaking, mountain biking, and zip-lining. It's a great spot for families and adventure seekers alike.

Adventure Half-day or full-day visit Fees apply for activities, ranging from NZD 10-50 depending on the activity

Must-Try Local Dishes

Seafood Chowder

A creamy and flavorful soup made with a variety of fresh seafood, including fish, mussels, and prawns. It's a popular dish in Tauranga and a must-try for seafood lovers.

Dinner Contains seafood and dairy

Hangi

A traditional Maori method of cooking food in an earth oven, using heated rocks and steam. Hangi is a unique and delicious dining experience, featuring a variety of meats and vegetables cooked to perfection.

Dinner Contains meat and may not be suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Pavlova

A popular New Zealand dessert made with a crispy meringue base, topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit. It's a sweet and refreshing treat, perfect for enjoying after a meal or as a snack.

Dessert Contains dairy and may not be suitable for those with dietary restrictions

Popular Activities

Hiking Mountain biking Kayaking Surfing Zip-lining Beach visits Spa and wellness treatments Picnics in the park

Best Time to Visit

December to February

This is the summer season, perfect for beach activities, water sports, and outdoor adventures. The weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for exploring the city's natural attractions.

20-25°C 68-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Maori
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Time Zone

GMT+12

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Tauranga is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in tourist areas, so it's important to keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings. It's also recommended to avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated or poorly lit areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air

Tauranga Airport • 10 km from city center
Auckland Airport • 170 km from Tauranga

By bus

Tauranga Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The BayBus system is reliable and user-friendly, with frequent services and clear signage. Fares are affordable, and daily passes are available for frequent travelers.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

The Mount (Mount Maunganui) Downtown Tauranga Pyes Pa Ohauiti

Day trips

Rotorua

60 km from Tauranga • Full day

Rotorua is a popular destination for its geothermal activity, Maori culture, and outdoor adventures. It's home to a variety of geothermal attractions, including geysers, hot springs, and mud pools, as well as a rich Maori heritage and a range of adventure activities.

Hobbiton Movie Set

90 km from Tauranga • Full day

The Hobbiton Movie Set is a must-visit destination for fans of the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies. It's a fully immersive experience, with guided tours taking visitors through the Shire, including Hobbit holes, the Party Tree, and the Green Dragon Inn.

Mount Ngongotaha

40 km from Tauranga • Half day

Mount Ngongotaha is a popular destination for hiking, mountain biking, and scenic views. It's home to a variety of walking and biking trails, as well as a historic lookout tower and a scenic chairlift.

Festivals

Tauranga Arts Festival • February Bay of Plenty Food and Wine Festival • October Matariki Festival • June or July (depending on the lunar calendar)

Pro tips

Visit Mount Maunganui for stunning views and outdoor activities, such as hiking, surfing, and picnicking
Explore the Tauranga Art Gallery and other cultural attractions to learn about the region's history and heritage
Try local seafood dishes, such as fish and chips, seafood chowder, and hangi, for a taste of the region's culinary delights
Take a day trip to nearby destinations, such as Rotorua, Hobbiton, or Waihi Beach, for a more immersive and diverse experience
Support local businesses and communities by purchasing locally-made products and services, such as kiwifruit, honey, and craft beer