cool shore excursions®
Top activities
Top landmarks
Trip ideas
Nearby places
  • Tours by category
  • Tours by accessibility
  • Tours by feature
  • Tours by time
  • Tours by the numbers
  • Top attractions
  • Tauranga travel guides
  • Tauranga travel calendar
  • Tours in nearby places
  • Explore North Island tours
Language $Currency
Port schedule
Login / Sign up
Bookings
Bookings
Wallet
$0.00
Wishlists
Wishlists
Cool Rewards Rewards
Gift cards
Profile
Help Center
Language
Log out
Start your search
Change your search
Place or activity
Select Dates
You booked this experience
You're departing on
Google Calendar
Apple Calendar
Microsoft Outlook
Make your trip unforgettable

Tauranga History and Culture

21 Reviews 4.95 out of 5 stars Based on 21 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and TripAdvisor |
Recommended by 100% of reviewers
100% of reviewers gave this experience a rating of 4 or higher.
| Tauranga, New Zealand
Book online or call us

from $120.79 per person

Lowest Price Guarantee
Pukehinahina (Gate) Pā
Traditional Marae experience - learning about the ancestry and culture
You will be hosted by your local Māori guide/storyteller
Historic Village stroll and refreshments
Otamataha Pā, following ancient traditions
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 17 (0) days in advance.
5 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
Hotel pickup offered
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English

Overview

Travel Ed is a Māori family operator, steeped in the ancestry of the Tauranga tribal area. With education backgrounds, both international and in Aotearoa (NZ), our experiences are based upon real-life experiences, and tailored to value learning outcomes across cultures.

Your authentic Māori storyteller guide will take you on a journey of cultural discovery, connecting you with significant sites, stories, and ancient tribal customs. Feel the presence of our ancestors as we take you on a journey dating back to 925AD.

This is not just a window to our culture, it's an immersion.

Travel Ed is an experience of a life time. In your small intimate group your friendly and knowledgable guide will ensure you are part of the family by journey’s end. Experiencing our Tauranga Māori cultural tour will provide you with a deep understanding and appreciation of our history. It is a wonderful day of conversation, reflection and learning.

A minimum of 4 guests is required for this tour to proceed.

What's Included

  • Bottled water Locally produced natural Mānuka sparkling water
  • All Fees and Taxes
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Lunch At a multiple New Zealand awards winning bakery or similar you are able to purchase an iconic New Zealand pie.
See 1 more

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup point
Pickup details

If you are not on a cruise ship make your way to Salisbury Wharf and look for your name on a sign held by one of our guides near the flag pole next to the Port of Tauranga offices.

OR
Meeting point

The Mall
Mount Maunganui 3116, New Zealand

Show on Google Maps

Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

What To Expect

Book Online

Our secure website provides real-time availability, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
Read more

Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free

Mount Maunganui (pass by)

As we drive by your local tribal guide will tell you ancient stories of our well known ancestral mountain, Mount Maunganui. You will take in the beauty of the beaches as we make our way to Tauranga, a short 30 minute drive.
Read more

Tauranga

Learn about the arrival of Kupe in 925AD, the first known Polynesian explorer to arrive in Aotearoa (NZ) from our historic homeland of Hawaiiki. You will experience the example of a Polynesian compass (Te Kāpehu) that he used for navigation to these shores. This provided the navigational blueprint for our ancestors arrival in Aotearoa (New Zealand)
Read more

25 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Otamataha Pa (pass by)

A short 10 minute drive will take you on a journey taking you back to the year 1828. The site of inter-tribal conflict, the arrival of settlers, missionries and the British colonial forces. It is here that you will learn of the local Māori tribes
Read more

The Elms | Te Papa (pass by)

A chance to see the Mission House which has relevance for the conflict that was to follow. Situated there also is the oldest free standing library in New Zealand. We stop momentarily.
Read more

Patrick’s Pies Goldstar Bakery Tauranga

A chance experience an icon of New Zealand cullinary delights, the humble pie. Patrick's Pies Gold Star Bakery has been a 9 times New Zealand pies supreme award winning bakery. It is a must to try.
Read more

30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Gate Pa Memorial Reserve

We will walk you through the battle on the site of one of the most significant conflicts between the colonial troops and our local Māori tribes of 1864. Learn about the carvings, the conflict and what it meant to Tauranga and surrounding district. Learn about what came from this conflict that connected with future world conflicts.
Read more

45 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Tahuwhakatiki Marae

Experience a local traditional marae where you will be immersed in the local traditions, connections and stories. You will leave having a greater understanding of the history of the local Māori culture and sense of community.
Read more

40 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Summerhill Mountainbike Park

Awesome views of Tauranga Harbour and coastline from the surrounding hills
Read more

30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Show 7 more stops

Additional Info

  • Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Infant seat may be available on request when booking

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Tauranga History and Culture?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (NZDT). Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

We're here to help.
Activity code: C-383232P1

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.95
21 reviews

Average 4.95 out of 5 stars based on 21 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
20
4 stars
1
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 17 (0) days in advance.
Tauranga Tours
Attractions
Guides
Calendar
View more

Similar Tours & Activities

Tauranga Daytime Scenic Lake McLaren Tour
4.9 (42)

Tauranga Daytime Scenic Lake McLaren Tour

Paddle out to the middle of the wonderfully calm Lake McLaren in a 18 seater canoe if you are from a Cruise Ship, where serenity...

3 hours 30 minutes Free Cancellation
4.9 (42)
from
$102
Tauranga Shore Excursion: History & Kiwifruit Tasting – 4 Hours
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.8 (169)

Tauranga Shore Excursion: History & Kiwifruit Tasting – 4 Hours

Discover the stories, flavours, and scenic beauty of Tauranga on this immersive four-hour journey combining coastal highlights, fascinating history, and local food experiences. RUNS SEPTEMBER...

4 hours Free Cancellation
4.8 (169)
from
$56
4hr Tauranga Scenic History and Tasting Tour FREE Kiwifruit Tasting
4.9 (20)

4hr Tauranga Scenic History and Tasting Tour FREE Kiwifruit Tasting

Discover the stories, flavours, and scenic beauty of Tauranga on this immersive four-hour journey combining coastal highlights, fascinating history, and local food experiences. RUNS SEPTEMBER...

4 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
4.9 (20)
from
$56
Ports of Tauranga/Rotorua/Tga - 6 Hours Rotorua Highlights Tour
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.7 (40)

Ports of Tauranga/Rotorua/Tga - 6 Hours Rotorua Highlights Tour

Pick up from Ports of Tauranga and travel 40 mins to Okere Falls. Walk down through our native forest to the waterfall that is on...

7 hours Free Cancellation
4.7 (40)
from
$144
Tauranga Daytime Scenic Lake McLaren Tour

Paddle out to the middle of the wonderfully calm Lake McLaren in a 18 seater canoe if you are from a Cruise Ship, where serenity …More

4.9 (42)

Tauranga Daytime Scenic Lake McLaren Tour

4.9 (42)

Paddle out to the middle of the wonderfully calm Lake McLaren in a 18 seater canoe if you are from a Cruise Ship, where serenity...

3 hours 30 minutes Free Cancellation
4.9 (42)
from
$102
Tauranga Shore Excursion: History & Kiwifruit Tasting – 4 Hours

Discover the stories, flavours, and scenic beauty of Tauranga on this immersive four-hour journey combining coastal highlights, fascinating history, and local food experiences. RUNS SEPTEMBER …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.8 (169)

Tauranga Shore Excursion: History & Kiwifruit Tasting – 4 Hours

4.8 (169)

Discover the stories, flavours, and scenic beauty of Tauranga on this immersive four-hour journey combining coastal highlights, fascinating history, and local food experiences. RUNS SEPTEMBER...

4 hours Free Cancellation
4.8 (169)
from
$56
4hr Tauranga Scenic History and Tasting Tour FREE Kiwifruit Tasting

Discover the stories, flavours, and scenic beauty of Tauranga on this immersive four-hour journey combining coastal highlights, fascinating history, and local food experiences. RUNS SEPTEMBER …More

4.9 (20)

4hr Tauranga Scenic History and Tasting Tour FREE Kiwifruit Tasting

4.9 (20)

Discover the stories, flavours, and scenic beauty of Tauranga on this immersive four-hour journey combining coastal highlights, fascinating history, and local food experiences. RUNS SEPTEMBER...

4 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
4.9 (20)
from
$56
Ports of Tauranga/Rotorua/Tga - 6 Hours Rotorua Highlights Tour

Pick up from Ports of Tauranga and travel 40 mins to Okere Falls. Walk down through our native forest to the waterfall that is on …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.7 (40)

Ports of Tauranga/Rotorua/Tga - 6 Hours Rotorua Highlights Tour

4.7 (40)

Pick up from Ports of Tauranga and travel 40 mins to Okere Falls. Walk down through our native forest to the waterfall that is on...

7 hours Free Cancellation
4.7 (40)
from
$144

Travelers Who Bought This Tour Also Bought

White Water Rafting - Kaituna Cascades, The Originals
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
5.0 (1,363)

White Water Rafting - Kaituna Cascades, The Originals

Kaituna Cascades was the original company to explore and start rafting the Kaituna River, and is still locally owned and operated by two current raft...

2 hours Free Cancellation
5.0 (1,363)
from
$77
Hobbiton Movie Set Shore Excursion from Tauranga (6 Hours)
4.9 (363)

Hobbiton Movie Set Shore Excursion from Tauranga (6 Hours)

Enjoy a magical 6-6.5 hour tour to the Hobbiton Movie set, used for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film series, which has...

6 hours Free Cancellation
4.9 (363)
from
$199
Tauranga Shore Excursion: History & Kiwifruit Tasting – 4 Hours
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.8 (169)

Tauranga Shore Excursion: History & Kiwifruit Tasting – 4 Hours

Discover the stories, flavours, and scenic beauty of Tauranga on this immersive four-hour journey combining coastal highlights, fascinating history, and local food experiences. RUNS SEPTEMBER...

4 hours Free Cancellation
4.8 (169)
from
$56
Tauranga Harbour Scenic 90 Minute Historical Boat Cruise
4.7 (53)

Tauranga Harbour Scenic 90 Minute Historical Boat Cruise

Discover Tauranga Harbour aboard the iconic KEWPIE — a relaxing, great‑value scenic cruise showcasing one of New Zealand’s most beautiful coastal environments. Enjoy a laid‑back...

1 hour 30 minutes Free Cancellation
4.7 (53)
from
$28
White Water Rafting - Kaituna Cascades, The Originals

Kaituna Cascades was the original company to explore and start rafting the Kaituna River, and is still locally owned and operated by two current raft …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
5.0 (1,363)

White Water Rafting - Kaituna Cascades, The Originals

5.0 (1,363)

Kaituna Cascades was the original company to explore and start rafting the Kaituna River, and is still locally owned and operated by two current raft...

2 hours Free Cancellation
5.0 (1,363)
from
$77
Hobbiton Movie Set Shore Excursion from Tauranga (6 Hours)

Enjoy a magical 6-6.5 hour tour to the Hobbiton Movie set, used for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film series, which has …More

4.9 (363)

Hobbiton Movie Set Shore Excursion from Tauranga (6 Hours)

4.9 (363)

Enjoy a magical 6-6.5 hour tour to the Hobbiton Movie set, used for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film series, which has...

6 hours Free Cancellation
4.9 (363)
from
$199
Tauranga Shore Excursion: History & Kiwifruit Tasting – 4 Hours

Discover the stories, flavours, and scenic beauty of Tauranga on this immersive four-hour journey combining coastal highlights, fascinating history, and local food experiences. RUNS SEPTEMBER …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.8 (169)

Tauranga Shore Excursion: History & Kiwifruit Tasting – 4 Hours

4.8 (169)

Discover the stories, flavours, and scenic beauty of Tauranga on this immersive four-hour journey combining coastal highlights, fascinating history, and local food experiences. RUNS SEPTEMBER...

4 hours Free Cancellation
4.8 (169)
from
$56
Tauranga Harbour Scenic 90 Minute Historical Boat Cruise

Discover Tauranga Harbour aboard the iconic KEWPIE — a relaxing, great‑value scenic cruise showcasing one of New Zealand’s most beautiful coastal environments. Enjoy a laid‑back …More

4.7 (53)

Tauranga Harbour Scenic 90 Minute Historical Boat Cruise

4.7 (53)

Discover Tauranga Harbour aboard the iconic KEWPIE — a relaxing, great‑value scenic cruise showcasing one of New Zealand’s most beautiful coastal environments. Enjoy a laid‑back...

1 hour 30 minutes Free Cancellation
4.7 (53)
from
$28

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Activity name

The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Cool Shore Excursions customers.

Filter by:

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Tauranga History and Culture?
A:
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.
  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (NZDT).
Apr 2025
Q: What's included in the price?
A:
The following is included:
  • Bottled water. Locally produced natural Mānuka sparkling water.
  • All Fees and Taxes.
  • Air-conditioned vehicle.
The following is NOT included:
  • Lunch. At a multiple New Zealand awards winning bakery or similar you are able to purchase an iconic New Zealand pie.
Apr 2025
Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:

The minimum age to participate is 3. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..

Apr 2025
Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:

If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

Apr 2025
Q: Is this an accessible tour?
A:

Accessibility information for the Tauranga History and Culture is as follows:

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Could be challenging for those who find walking for 20 minutes or more
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Apr 2025
Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Tauranga History and Culture will be included in your confirmation email from Cool Shore Excursions. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

 

 

Mar 2024
Q: How long does a refund take to reach my card, and can I get it faster?
A:

Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.

Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.

If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.

Oct 2026

What's Included

Activity name

  • Bottled waterLocally produced natural Mānuka sparkling water
  • All Fees and Taxes
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • LunchAt a multiple New Zealand awards winning bakery or similar you are able to purchase an iconic New Zealand pie.

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Could be challenging for those who find walking for 20 minutes or more
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Infant seat may be available on request when booking
  • Travel time is included on the total tour duration.
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 9 travelers

Report Product Issue

Activity name