Tauranga, New Zealand 

Tauranga, meaning "shelter" (named by Capt. Cook the Bay of Plenty ), with its population of 103,000, is a modern thriving city supported by the export of lumber and farming. The popular seaside suburb of Mount Maunganui is where your cruise ship will berth at Port of Tauranga , and here you will find beautiful white sandy beaches, hot pools, boutique shopping, waterfront cafes and the mighty Mauao. Mauao (more commonly referred to as ‘the Mount’) features popular walking tracks which will give you spectacular views of the region, the Pacific Ocean and outlying islands.

Rotorua (80km inland from the port of Tauranga ) is a geothermal wonderland. Spectacular erupting geysers, bubbling mud pools, hot springs and clouds of billowing steam are visible at every turn. Rotorua is also the heart of Maori culture in , with an historic living village, carving and weaving displays, and Maori music, singing and dancing performances. The region is an adventure hot spot, with plenty of activities – some of them world firsts - to challenge the adrenalin junkie. Its 16 lakes make Rotorua an aquatic paradise ideal for swimming, fishing and other water options, and its range of spas and spa therapies are the perfect way to end a day of sightseeing.

Your ship will dock at Berth Number 1, Rata Street but some voyages may find the ship at anchor.

Taxis are widely available in Tauranga and Rotorua.

Look for the sheepskin products for which New Zealand is famous. You’ll also find fantastic craftwork and be able to stock up on your favourite New Zealand wines. If you’re on the lookout for Maori arts and crafts, make sure they’re authentic – the better pieces should be accompanied by a trademark toi iho symbol.

The Bay of Plenty is not just a fruit bowl, it’s a produce bowl. To the east, the waters are home to a wide variety of seafood. To the west, north and south are lush farmlands. The rivers are home to trout. You will soon experience how the chefs of Tauranga and the region skilfully make use of the abundant local produce to create mouth-watering culinary treats. In Tauranga, you’ll find lots of restaurants, cafes and bars along The Strand, which fronts the bay.

New Zealand has a maritime climate and the weather around the Bay of Plenty and Tauranga is generally mild. The region hasone of New Zealand’s most enjoyable climates. Inland, it can get cooler.

Tipping in New Zealand is optional. Tips are usually given only for exceptional service. Between five and ten percent of the bill would be reasonable in a good restaurant if the service has been excellent.

Major credit cards and charge cards are widely accepted. Automatic teller machines provide currency to foreign card holders.

Public telephones are available throughout Tauranga and Rotorua.

To make your day ashore as enjoyable as possible, wear comfortable, flat soled shoes, ‘layered’ clothing (to allow for changes in temperature, particularly in autumn and winter) and a hat, SPF30+ or higher factor sunscreen and bottled water. It’s also a good idea to bring an umbrella on overcast days and a warm jacket in winter.

There are a number of tours available for you to really get the most out of your time in and around Tauranga, Rotorua and the Bay of Plenty. Subject to availability, tours may be booked onboard at the Tours Office.

Passengers will meet at a specific location for each tour departure. Please refer to the onboard newsletter for the correct place and time. Your friendly Tour staff will be at that location to assist you.