Guided Māori History and Culture Tour to Rotorua and Tauranga
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Your hosts are a Māori family business, steeped in the ancestry of the Tauranga and Bay of Plenty tribes. With education backgrounds, both international and in Aotearoa (NZ), our experiences are based upon real-life experiences, and tailored to value learning outcomes across cultures.
Your authentic Māori guide is a storyteller, geared to take you on a journey of cultural discovery, connecting you with culturally signigficant sites, stories, and ancient tribal customs. Feel the presence of our ancestors as we take you on a journey dating back to 925AD.
This is not just a window to our culture, it's an immersion.
This is an experience of a life time. In your small van group, your warm friendly, knowledgable guide will ensure you are part of the family by journey’s end. This tour will provide you with a deep understanding and appreciation of our history. It is a wonderful day of conversation, reflection and learning.
A minimum of 4 guests is required for this tour to proceed.
Available options
Unique Māori History & Culture
Small group: To ensure a personal experience this tour is restricted to a maximum of 9 manuhiri (guests) <br/>Duration: 6 hours: The tour will take approximately 6 hrs including drive time between stops at places of significance. <br/>Local food and drink: Locally produced water infused with traditional mānuka honey. Optional stop at a popular Māori/Japanese fusion eatery<br/>Tauranga and Rotorua: Travel through the forests to Rotorua returning through kiwifruit growing region to the port gates<br/>Small van: Comfortable and spacious fully air conditioned van <br/>Personal Experience: Each guest becomes a part of our whānau whānui (extended family). Your guide will embrace you as part of our community.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Locally produced natural sparkling water
All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle
Local Māori Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
As we drive by your local tribal guide will tell you ancient stories of our well known ancestral mountain, Mount Maunganui.. You will take in the beauty of the beaches as we make our way to Tauranga, a short 20 minute drive.
2
Ancient Māori navigational compass. Hear the ancient stories of the arrival of our Māori ancestors from 925AD. Learn where they came from and their subsequent settlement in Aotearoa
3
We will walk you through the battle on the site of one of the most significant conflicts between the colonial troops and our local Māori tribes of 1864. Learn about the carvings, the conflict and what it meant to Tauranga and surrounding district. Learn about what came from this conflict that connected with future world conflicts.
4
Lunch is served. Enjoy the taste of an iconic New Zealand pie. These pies have won the best pie awards for many years. The best pies in New Zealand! Patrick’s Pies has won the Bakers New Zealand Supreme Pie Award almost every year since 2011. If pies are not your thing they do offer a range of excellent bakery food to choose from
5
Stop 5
Arriving at the thermal valley after traveling through the forests to Rotorua you will experience the stories and cultural performance of our internationally recognised Māori cultural group
6
Experience a local traditional marae where you will be immersed in the local traditions, connections and stories. You will leave having a greater understanding of the history of the local Māori culture and sense of community.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
15 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
5 reviews
5★
5
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Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Travel time is included on the total tour duration.
Could be challenging for those who find walking for 20 minutes or more
Meeting point
Flagpole area outside the port gates. Find the tourism desk as you walk from the ship towards the Port gates. A representative will meet you there. Be there at least 15 mins prior to departure.
Important notes
Look for the Travel Ed desk at the tourist booths as you leave the ship and walk to the port gates. Ask the tourism ambassadors who will be visible if in doubt.
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
