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Tauranga, New Zealand is a thriving city built on lumber exports and farming, and is overflowing with stunning natural attractions - and a P&O New Zealand cruise can take you there! See stunning beaches, bushland and hot spring pools - and while you’re at it, why not pay a visit to the famous Lord of the Rings film location of Hobbiton?
The iconic peak guarding the harbour, mighty Mauao, holds special significance for local Maoris. Discover brilliant tracks for hiking with unsurpassed views of the Pacific. Rejuvenate inside a thermal hot pool or take in the views on a gondola ride – before you luge back down. Have a look at the wide range of P&O shore tours available in Tauranga:
Glorious Bay of Plenty: Rich Land, Rich Culture shore tour explores the incredible abundance and productivity of the aptly named Bay of Plenty. Meet descendants of the Maoris who arrived on the first ocean-going canoes from central Polynesia more than 650 years ago. Enjoy an exclusive visit to the stunning coastal headland site of a centuries-old Maori fortification with 360-degree panoramic views. Its strategic location has been ardently contested by neighbouring Maori tribes.
The magical Hobbiton Movie Set shore tour takes you to New Zealand’s top attraction - the rolling green hills of Hobbiton. Even if you haven’t seen the movies, it’s an amazing sight. Join this fascinating tour to Hobbiton near Matamata and step back in time to JRR Tolkien’s Middle Earth. The set was built in 1999 for the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Enjoy strolling around the home of the hobbits, including Bag End where Bilbo Baggins lived. See the Party Tree, the restored bridge and the old pub.
Just minutes away from Rotorura’s city centre, the Skyline Gondola & Luge shore tour will stun you with amazing panoramic views of Rotorua city, lake, and the beautiful surrounds. Travel 487 metres above sea level to a fun park environment. Try your skills on the luge, a fun-filled gravity ride on a three-wheel cart. Three separate sealed tracks wind down through incredible redwood trees and your day out includes a ride on a track of your choice.
P&O cruises to New Zealand from either Sydney or Melbourne. To visit Tauranga, choose our Kiwi Adventure cruise.
Population
103,632 (2006 census)
Language
English and Te Reo Maori
Government
Parliamentary Democracy
Currency
New Zealand Dollar
Guest favourites, the most booked Shore Tours at this port
Our handpicked Shore Tours are a must for any guest.
One hour south of Tauranga is Rotorua, one of New Zealand’s most famous cities. This fascinating place gets it effervescence (literally) from the region’s thermal wonders. Steam, boiling mud, hot springs and geysers pulsate from cracks in rocks. This remarkable thermal activity draws travellers from all over the world. Trout fishing, white water rafting, mountain biking and bushwalking are other popular pursuits.
A traditional meeting house (marae) is the focal point of Maori communities. Tauranga is the ideal place to visit an urban marae and learn about the fascinating Maori culture and how the modern Maori keep it alive.
The Mount Maunganui Hot Salt Water Pools are only a short 15-minute walk from the port gate. Many people choose to enjoy one of the stunning walkways up or around the mountain before taking a dip in the naturally heated springs. You will need your swimsuit. Towels can be hired from reception. Afterwards, enjoy a treat from one of the famous ice cream parlous, or indulge in some boutique shopping on your walk back to the ship.
Your ship will dock at Berth Number One at the Mount Maunganui Wharves.
Taxis are widely available in Tauranga and Rotorua. Mount Maunganui is within short walking distance.
The Bay of Plenty is not just a fruit bowl, it’s a produce bowl. To the east the waters are home to a variety of seafood. To the west, north and south are lush farmlands. The rivers also boast a healthy supply of trout. Sample creations by local chefs who skilfully make use of this abundant local produce to create mouth-watering culinary treats. You’ll find an array of restaurants, bars and cafes located along The Strand, which fronts the bay.
Quarantine authorities do not generally allow food such as fruit and vegetables, dairy and meat products and sandwiches to be taken off the ship however commercially packaged confectionery, chips and bottled drinking water are allowed subject to inspection.
Look for sheepskin products, for which New Zealand is famous. You’ll also find fantastic craftwork and local 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. There are three main shopping areas in Tauranga City. Mainstreet Mount Maunganui is an easy walk (one city block) from the port gate. Bayfair Shopping Centre is an indoor option featuring well-known brands (take a taxi or local bus). Downtown Tauranga features boutique and well known brands (take a taxi or shuttle).
Weather around the Bay of Plenty and Tauranga is generally mild. Inland it can get cooler.
Major credit cards and charge cards are widely accepted. Automatic teller machines are capable of providing currency to foreign card holders.
Public telephones and Internet cafe’s are available throughout Tauranga and Rotorua. Mobile coverage is generally available as long as global roaming is selected prior to leaving home.
To make your day ashore as enjoyable as possible, please wear comfortable flat soled shoes, layered clothing (to allow for changes in temperature) and a hat. You are also advised to bring sunscreen, bottled water, a warm jacket in winter, and an umbrella on overcast days.
There are a range of tours available for you to really get the most out of your time in Tauranga. Tours can be booked onboard at the shore tours desk and are subject to availability. Passengers are required to meet at a specific location for each shore tour departure. Please refer to your tour ticket for the correct time and place.
Please dispose of your rubbish thoughtfully.