Tauranga Cruise Port Guide: Top Things to Do at Mount Maunganui & Bay of Plenty See description
December 6, 2025
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Welcome back to Travel Cruise Feast!
Discover the best things to do in Tauranga, New Zealand, one of the sunniest and most beautiful cruise ports in the Bay of Plenty. From the iconic Mount Maunganui (Mauao) to golden beaches, Māori culture, kiwifruit orchards, and easy day trips to Rotorua and Hobbiton, Tauranga is a must-visit stop on any New Zealand cruise. Walk off your cruise ship and explore beaches, wildlife, local food, dolphin tours, and unforgettable panoramic views.
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Today we’re exploring Tauranga, one of the sunniest, most beautiful coastal cities in New Zealand. With a population of around 162,000, Tauranga is famous for Mount Maunganui, golden beaches, year-round sunshine, rich Māori culture, fresh kiwifruit, and one of the busiest cruise ports in the Bay of Plenty.
When your cruise ship docks in Tauranga, the first thing you’ll see is Mount Maunganui — Mauao — rising above the harbour. It’s the city’s most iconic landmark, and whether you’re walking the base track or hiking to the summit, the views over the Bay of Plenty are absolutely breathtaking.
Tauranga is also the perfect gateway to New Zealand’s top attractions. From here, you can take a shore excursion to Rotorua to see powerful geysers, steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and world-class Māori cultural performances. Or you can head inland to the Hobbiton Movie Set, just a short and easy drive from the port.
But if you decide to stay local, there’s still plenty to enjoy right off the ship. You can stroll the waterfront, join a dolphin-watching cruise, or sample fresh regional produce — especially from the orchards that grow most of New Zealand’s kiwifruit.
And of course, just beneath Mauao, you’ll find Main Beach — a long sweep of golden sand perfect for swimming, relaxing, or catching a few waves.
Tauranga truly has it all: beaches, culture, wildlife, iconic landmarks, and easy day trips. It’s no surprise this vibrant port is a highlight on so many New Zealand cruise itineraries.
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