Lakes forests and Whakarewarewa Living Maori Village

Tauranga , New Zealand

Lakes forests and Whakarewarewa Living Maori Village

Active

8h - 9h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Join us on this epic day of culture, history and natural beauty, as we explore the hinterland and lakes area, and experience daily life in a living Maori village!
Visit the mighty Lake Tarawera! View ancient Maori Rock Art, and enjoy a swim, or just chill out at the cafe by the lake.
Next we head to the famous Whakarewarewa Living Maori Village. We believe this is the absolute best option in New Zealand to really experience and learn about our indigenous people and their lifestyle and history. Enjoy a cultural show and then a fully guided tour of the village. See the active geothermal springs and geysers and learn about the incredible connection between this and other volcanic areas across the globe.
Next we head to the famous Redwoods Treetop Walk. Traverse the swing bridges and walkways high in the forest, and learn about this unique ecosystem. This is an outstanding activity, and one of our absolute favourites in the region.

Available options

Lakes forests and Whakarewarewa Living Maori Village

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Entrance to Lake Tarawera and the Redwoods Forest Park is included.

Snacks

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Join us on this epic day of culture, history and natural beauty, as we explore the hinterland and lakes area, and experience daily life in a living Maori village! We drive past the Blue and Green Lakes (so stunning in their own right) before arriving at the “main event"! The mighty Lake Tarawera! View ancient Maori Rock Art, and enjoy a swim, or just chill out at the cafe by the lake. Make sure you take your camera, as this is a truly spectacular location. Learn about the history of the world famous Pink and White Terraces, and the tragic Tarawera eruption which reshaped this area forever.

Stop 2

Next we head to the famous Whakarewarewa Living Maori Village. We believe this is the absolute best option in New Zealand to really experience and learn about our indigenous people and their lifestyle and history, from real descendants of this important tribe. Enjoy a top quality cultural show and then a fully guided tour of the village. See up close, the active geothermal springs and geysers, watch a cooking demonstration and learn about the incredible connection between this and other volcanic areas across the globe.

Head to the famous Redwoods Treetop Walk. Traverse the swing bridges and walkways high in the forest, and learn about this unique ecosystem. Breathe in the cool and clean air high up in the forest, and look out for native birdlife as you explore the many walkways and bridges. This is an outstanding activity, and one of our absolute favourites in the region. Alternatively, if you're not one for heights, take part in a free ground walk through the forest with your guide.

What's not included

Whakarewarewa Living Maori Village Tour and Show NZD47.50 per Child or

Redwoods Treetop Walk NZD26 Per Child or

Available languages

Written guide

DE CMN JA IT FR ES

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

We will be standing by the flagpole just outside the Cruise Port Exit. We will have a sign with "A Day in the Bay" and your name on it. Please be there 20 mins prior to the trip leaving.
Our tours are all tailored for cruise passengers, and we will meet you at the port. We time our trips to fit your docking time, and will have you back with plenty of time to spare.
We provide a fully guided experience and use only luxury Mercedes vans with panoramic windows.

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