Private Van Full-Day
Private Van Full-Day
Maori first discovered this area in the 13th Century and named it "Tauranga" meaning 'the place of rest or anchorage.' The area has grown rapidly in recent years and now shines as a cosmopolitan city with a combined easy-going, friendly atmosphere. A stunning coastal paradise, this region offers a multitude of choices appealing to everyone for entertainment and activities. From the mountains to beaches, world-class culinary to outdoor markets, it will not be difficult to create very special memories when you are here.
Maori are the Tangata Whenua, the indigenous people, of New Zealand. They came here more than 1000 years ago from their mythical Polynesian homeland of Hawaiki. Today Maori make up 14% of the population and their history, language and traditions are central to New Zealand's identity.
After being met at the port area by your friendly, local driver/guide you can determine exactly what you would like to do for your day in port. Your customizable tour will be conducted in a comfortable, luxurious Mercedes Van with cool bottled water, snacks, and complimentary Wi fi. Maximize your day in port and create an itinerary that is suited just for you.
In the city you can view historic buildings like the Elms Mission Station, an 1847 Georgian-style home. Travel over a harbor bridge that connects Tauranga to Mount Maunganui, a beach town with hot saltwater pools and an extinct namesake volcano with winding walking paths.
Some options for your day can also include exploring the wine region and travel to some of the local wineries for wine tastings. Feeling thirsty? Does a locally brewed cider sound delicious, perhaps a craft beer or a glass of fine wine? Discover there are many thirst-quenching choices, all located in the Bay of Plenty.
Getting out on the water is another great choice for the adventurous type. Ever tried river rafting? From a quiet glide through picturesque forest wilderness to a white-knuckled, wide-eyed journey going over rapids, rafting covers the full adventure spectrum.
How about some beach exploration? This region is renowned for white sandy beaches and the choices seem almost endless. The wide, welcoming coastline stretches for 125km (almost 80 miles) where lifeguards patrol most of the popular beaches during summer months so relax and enjoy the surf.
But of course, no trip to this area of the world would be complete with an immersion in the area of Rotorua and the famous geothermal region. New Zealand is located where two tectonic plates of the earth's crust meet causing a large amount of geothermal activity, allowing warm water to bubble up through the earth's crust to form hot pools. These pools often contain minerals dissolved from the rocks they have seeped through. View the gushing geysers and bubbling mud pools in your private group for a more personal and intimate experience. For centuries locals have enjoyed these hot pools, with some believing that sitting in mineral water helps with medical problems. Rotorua, a city built on top of an active volcanic zone, offers a selection of hot pool complexes.
Please Note: The entrance fee to the Maori Village is $35 US per person (not included). Vehicles available for this tour accommodate groups of up to 11 or 14 guests maximum. Groups with more than 14 guests will need to book multiple vehicles. Please consider this information when booking.
Shore Excursions Group was created with one goal in mind: to provide exceptional travel experiences to cruise passengers in the ports they visit around the world. To accomplish this, we have compiled an exceptional array of tours delivered by local experts with decades of experience serving travelers and delivering excellent tours. Our owners and management team are comprised of seasoned travel industry executives who leverage their considerable experience to deliver memorie ...
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