đ˘Cruise Port Guide to Tauranga, New Zealand
Welcome to Tauranga!
Table of Contents:
* Tauranga Information
* Tauranga Weather
* Tauranga Cruise Terminal
*Â Getting Around Tauranga
* Iconic Tauranga Experiences for First-Time Visitors
*Â Mount Maunganui
*Â Tauranga City Centre (CBD)
*Â Tauranga for Nature Lovers
* Tauranga for Art Lovers
*Â Fun Things to Do in Tauranga with Kids
*Â Where to Shop in Tauranga
* Where to Find Free Wi-Fi in Tauranga
* Supermarkets and Grocery Stores in Tauranga
Tauranga Information
Tauranga is New Zealandâs 5th largest city and a favourite stop for many cruisers. Your ship will dock at Salisbury Wharf in Pilot Bay, putting you within easy walking distance of great beaches, boutique shops, cafes and bars of Mount Manganui.
Tauranga's Name:
Tauranga (pronounced toe-rahng-ah) means 'safe anchorage' or 'resting place for canoes', reflecting the areaâs sheltered harbour that was historically used by MÄori as a safe landing spot for waka (canoes).
Population:
Tauranga's population in 2024 is 161,000 but can double during the holiday season. It's also one of the fastest-growing cities in New Zealand, attracting people for its lifestyle and job opportunities.
History:
Tauranga was settled by MÄori around the 13th century. In the 19th century, European settlers arrived, and Tauranga became a key site during the New Zealand Wars, particularly the Battle of Gate PÄ in 1864. After the wars, the region developed rapidly, becoming an important port for timber and agriculture.
Geography:
Tauranga is located in the Bay of Plenty region on the North Island of New Zealand. It sits on a natural harbour, with a mix of sandy beaches, rolling hills, and volcanic landscapes. Taurangaâs heart lies along the Tauranga Harbour, which separates the city from Mount Maunganui (Mauao).
Currency:
New Zealand Dollar (NZD), Most places accept credit cards.
Language:
English is the primary language in New Zealand, but MÄori is also an official language, and you'll encounter plenty of MÄori place names and cultural references throughout the city.
Time Zone:
New Zealand Standard Time (NZST) and observes daylight saving time.
Emergency Services:
The emergency services number in New Zealand is 111 for police, fire, and medical emergencies.
Tipping:
Tipping is not expected in New Zealand but appreciated for exceptional service.
Tauranga Weather
Tauranga enjoys a mild, subtropical climate. Summers (December to February) are warm and sunny, with temperatures typically ranging between 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F).
It's known for its excellent sunshine hours, making it one of the sunniest places in New Zealand. It typically enjoys around 2,200 to 2,400 hours of sunshine annually.
Tauranga Cruise Terminal
This port stop is fantastic for cruisers as you don't need to worry about a tender or shuttle bus. Salisbury Wharf is right in Pilot Bay, a short stroll from everything you need in Mount Manganui.
Getting Around Tauranga
* Tauranga i-SITE Visitor Centre
There is a pop-up iPORT visitor information and volunteer ambassadors at the port to help you when you disembark. There is also a main isite centre 5 mins from the port in the centre of Mt. Maunganui.
* Walking
The great thing about having Tauranga on your cruise itinerary is that you don't have to worry about tenders or shuttle buses. You'll dock right in the heart of 'The Mount', one of New Zealand's favourite beach towns.
When you leave the port:Â
Turn right to reach Main Beach and the Farmer's Market, boutique shops, bars and restaurants.
Turn left to explore Pilot Bay and the scenic trails (some easy and others moderate or steep) around and up Mauao.
* Hop On Hop Off Bus
A Hop On Hop Off bus that operates on cruise days (large cruise ship over 2000 passengers). Tickets can be purchased from the iport as you disembark.
It takes 90 minutes to do the circuit (if you stay onboard). They leave every 30 minutes from 9am.
* Uber and Local Taxis
You won't really need to go anywhere on this port stop but if you do there are taxis and Ubers available.
* Pepi Toot Express
The cute little Pepi Toot Beach Express operates tours on cruise days. Cost is NZD$35 or $NZD60 for 2 people (at 2024). The tour is one hour long, and it departs 100m to the right as you come out of the port. Â
* V8 Trike Tour
You can enjoy a V8 Trike Tour around Tauranga on the back of an V8 Chevy!
* Bay Hopper Bus Information
Day Saver Tickets: Unlimited trips for one day. Purchase from the Port i-SITE or Mount i-SITE using credit card or cash, or from the bus driver with NZ cash only.Â
Bus Schedule
Bus 5: To Tauranga City Centre, departs every 15 minutes on weekdays (excluding public holidays) and every 30 minutes on weekends and public holidays.
Bus 21: To Bayfair Shopping Centre and Papamoa, runs every hour, Monday to Sunday, including public holidays.
Iconic Tauranga Experiences for First-Time Visitors
* Hiking Mauao (Mount Maunganui)
Mauao (Mount Maunganui) is believed to be around 2-3 million years old, formed from volcanic activity. Now dormant, itâs an iconic part of the skyline and you can walk to the summit or take the scenic base track for stunning views of the Bay of Plenty.
* Rotorua
Rotorua is about 1 hour by car from Tauranga and is known for its geothermal activity and MÄori culture. You can visit bubbling mud pools, geysers, hot springs, and enjoy cultural performances at places like Te Puia or Tamaki MÄori Village. Rotorua also offers spa experiences in natural hot springs, such as at Polynesian Spa.
* Hobbiton
For those of you who love movies, you can travel to middle-earth to the Hobbiton Movie Set. Just over an hour from Tauranga, you can take a guided tour of the famous movie set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films. The tour includes a visit to the Hobbit Holes, The Green Dragon Inn, and other iconic locations on the lush farmland.
Mount Maunganui (Mauao)
* Mount Maunganui (Mauao)
Mauao is an extinct volcanic cone, last active around 2 million years ago, and holds sacred significance for MÄori. Its name means 'caught by the light of day,' reflecting its cultural importance and role as a landmark. A popular climb, Mauao once hosted a MÄori fortified village, and on clear days, the summit offers views up to 60 kilometres, including over the Bay of Plenty, Tauranga Harbour, and Mount Ruapehu.
There are several tracks to the summit:
Summit Track: There are several tracks to take you to the summit, some with stairs or the track from Pilot Bay is a gradual climb. There are parts that are quite steep but definitely worth it for the views.
Base Track: For a more leisurely walk, you can take the Base Track, which circles the base of the mountain and offers great views without the climb.
To avoid the midday heat and crowds, you will want to start your climb early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Don't be like some other cruisers and try and walk it in jeans! And don't forget a water bottle. Remember that you're close enough to be able to walk this and then return to the ship to change into other clothes and then go and explore the rest of the Mount.
* Mount Maunganui Beach
Mount Maunganui Beach is one of New Zealandâs most iconic beaches. There are lifeguards on duty during the summer months. Itâs also a favoured spot for surfers of all levels, with consistent waves and reliable surf.Â
* Mount Hot Pools
The Mount Hot Pools are at the base of Mount Maunganui with views of the mountain and the nearby beach. The pools are filled with naturally heated mineral water, sourced from underground springs.
* Maunganui Road
Maunganui Road is the main street of Mount Maunganui and serves as the hub of the areaâs shopping, dining, and entertainment activities. Explore boutique shops, cafĂŠs, and restaurants along Maunganui Road.
* Pilot Bay
Unlike the surf beach on the opposite side of Mount Maunganui, Pilot Bay features calm, sheltered waters ideal for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. There are a few cafÊs and eateries nearby where you can grab a bite to eat or a drink while enjoying views of the bay.
Tauranga City Centre (CBD)
Taurangaâs CBD lies along the Tauranga Harbour, which separates the city from Mount Maunganui (Mauao). It's about a 10-15 minute drive from the port to get here. Unless you've already been to Mount Maunganui, Hobbiton and Rotorua, you probably won't venture into the city centre.
* The Strand
Stroll along The Strand, the promenade that runs the length of the waterfront with restaurants, bars, shops and a playground.
Note:Â The Strand is currently under redevelopment and not accessible.
* Historic Village
The Historic Village on 17th Avenue showcases a collection of restored and recreated heritage buildings. Walk through early 20th-century-style shops, galleries, and gardens, and participate in events and workshops celebrating Taurangaâs past.
* The Elms | Te Papa
The Elms Mission Station is a heritage site showcasing early European missionary life. Explore the historic mission house, library, and beautiful gardens. The site also provides insight into Taurangaâs colonial history and interactions with local MÄori.
Tauranga for Nature Lovers
*Â Harbour Sightseeing Cruise
* Swim With Dolphins
* Surfing
There are several surf schools along the beach.Â
Tauranga for Art Lovers
* Tauranga Art Gallery
The gallery showcases a wide range of New Zealand and international art, including painting, sculpture, photography, and multimedia installations.
Note: The Tauranga Art Gallery is currently closed for redevelopment. It's due to reopen early-mid 2025.
* City Art Walk
This Art Walk is a fun self-guided tour of some of the artworks around Tauranga.
Fun Things to Do in Tauranga with Kids
Tauranga is a family-friendly port stop with plenty of activities that kids will love.Â
* Waimarino Adventure Park
Waimarino Adventure Park is on the Wairoa River. The park offers kayaking, paddleboarding, a water trampoline, water slides, a floating climbing wall, and a Tarzan swing. Thereâs also a Warm Water Pool and Kidsâ Canoe Club for younger children.
* Hairy Maclary & Friends
The bronze sculptures Hairy Maclary, Scarface Claw, Slinky Malinki, Hercules Morse, Muffin McLay, Bottomley Potts, Schnitzel von Krumm, Bitzer Maloney and Zachary Quack are installed on Tauranga's redeveloped waterfront.
Note: This area is currently under redevelopment and closed.
* Marshalls Animal Park
Children can feed and pet the animals, including llamas, deer, goats, pigs, and more. A great spot for a family picnic or walk, and the nearby waterfall is a great place to visit. Located at McLaren Falls Park.
Where to Shop in Tauranga
*Â Maunganui Road
Maunganui Road ('Main Street') is the main shopping and dining street in Mount Maunganui, offering a selection of shops, cafes, restaurants, and boutique stores. It's a lively hub especially when the cruise ships are docked.
Start at Sisters & Co. When you come out of the port turn right and it's on the corner. There are shops all the way down to Pacific Avenue.
* Bayfair Shopping Centre
Over 140 stores and restaurants., it's the Bay's largest shopping Centre. Take Bay Hopper Bus 21 which leaves Monday to Sunday including public Holidays every hour.
* Tauranga Farmer's Market
Just to the right of the cruise port, this Farmer's Market run every Saturday morning from 7:45 AM to 12 noon. It's definitely worth a wander through and has many stalls with interesting products.
Other Useful Information
* Where to Find Free Wi-Fi in Tauranga
Several cafĂŠs offer Wi-Fi hotspots around Mount Maunganui and downtown Tauranga. Public service provider EOL also offers free Wi-Fi along The Strand in Tauranga; simply search your deviceâs Wi-Fi options for âEOLâ.
* Supermarket and Grocery Store
Was this Tauranga guide helpful?
Hopefully, this guide saves you hours of planning and helps you make the most of your visit to Tauranga!
If you have any feedback, suggestions or questions, feel free to reach out.
Happy cruising to Tauranga!
Anna @ New Zealand Cruises
www.new-zealand-cruises.com
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