Top 10 City Tours in Bay of Plenty Region, North Island

December 31, 2021 Roseanne Arnett

The Bay of Plenty (Māori: Te Moana-a-Toi) is a large bight in the northern coast of New Zealand's North Island. It stretches from the Coromandel Peninsula in the west to Cape Runaway in the east, a wide stretch of some 259 km of open coastline. The Bay of Plenty Region is situated around this body of water, also incorporating several large islands in the bay. The bay was named by James Cook after he noticed the abundant food supplies at several Māori villages there, in stark contrast to the earlier observations he had made in Poverty Bay.
Restaurants in Bay of Plenty Region

1. Auckland to Waitomo Caves, Hobbiton & Rotorua 2-Day Private Tour

Victoria St West opp Sky Tower, Auckland 1010, New Zealand TIME Unlimited Tours
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Pass through the beautiful NZ countryside on your way to see the world-famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves, then experience what the unique town of Rotorua has to offer from thermal hot mud pools, geysers and our Maori cultural centre of New Zealand. Choose to incorporate Hobbiton Movie Set into your tour. Experience all of this in two wonderful days on a private tour in a Mercedes luxury vehicle just for you. Pick-up in Auckland and drop-off in Auckland or Rotorua.

Inclusions: Fully guided Private Tour in Mercedes luxury vehicle., Pick-up/drop-off in Auckland incl airport/cruise terminal., Tour times flexible to work in with your requirements., Complimentary snacks & water., All guide expenses (e.g. guide accommodation & meals)., All tours support local eco-cultural initiatives.

Exclusions: Entry fees., Guest accommodation and meals., Anything not specifically mentioned in the itinerary.

Reviewed By AylaS171

I had the best experience with Time Unlimited Tours, they were so prompt with their service. I had a group of 70 people getting transported from one venue to another. It was absolutely hassle free and my guests were very impressed! They were on time, so kind and helpful. Neill and Ceillhe are the loviest people and I just can't recommend their service enough!! 10/10 across the board. I would use this company again, ANY day of the week!

2. 3hr Tauranga Sun-downer History Tour COMPLIMENTARY Wine or Beer

Wicked Wanders
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Departs 2:00pm Winter 3:00pm Summer. A tour of Tauranga city taking in the sights of early european settlements, the battle of Gate Pa, views of the harbour, local history and how Tauranga grew to be the city it is today. Finishes with a complimentary glass of wine or beer at The Clarence boutique hotel.

Inclusions: 11 seater modern, clean air conditioned minivan for your comfort and safety, Live commentary on board, Local driver/guide, Tauranga CBD accomodation pickup and drop-off, Bottled water

Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified, Gratuities

Reviewed By NZcitz

We had beautiful weather. This is a must to be able to experience the best views. Our guide was good and informative. Downside for anyone unable to walk unaided, not for wheelchair, steps quite steep. Pushchair can manage, money we'll spent. PS: I have both knees reconstructed but able to get around the hilly terrain.

3. 4hr Shore Excursion - History and Tasting Tour FREE Kiwifruit Ice Cream

Wicked Wanders
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4.9 based on 63 reviews

Departs 10:00am (Subject to cruise ship docking times). Enjoy this 4 Hour boutique tour of Tauranga. Picking you up from right outside the Tauranga port gates the local guide accompaning you will serve as your expert, connecting you with the natural beauty, history, culture, industry and people of Tauranga. See amazing views, beautiful beaches, historical sites, orchards and experience the taste of our world-renowned Manuka Honey, Kiwifruit and Avocado industries. At the completion of the tour your guide will transport you back to the port gates. - RUNS OCTOBER TO APRIL ONLY

Inclusions: Bottled water, Manuka Honey, Kiwifruit and Avocado oil tastings, Local driver/guide, Live commentary on board, Port pickup and drop-off, Air-conditioned vehicle, Free Locally made Kiwifruit Ice cream

Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified, Gratuities

Reviewed By NZcitz

We had beautiful weather. This is a must to be able to experience the best views. Our guide was good and informative. Downside for anyone unable to walk unaided, not for wheelchair, steps quite steep. Pushchair can manage, money we'll spent. PS: I have both knees reconstructed but able to get around the hilly terrain.

4. 4hr Tauranga Scenic History and Tasting Tour FREE Kiwifruit Ice Cream

1 The Mall, Bay of Plenty 3116, New Zealand Wicked Wanders
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4.8 based on 6 reviews

Departs 10:00am. Enjoy this 4 Hour boutique tour of Tauranga. Picking you up from right outside the Tauranga port gates the local guide accompaning you will serve as your expert, connecting you with the natural beauty, history, culture, industry and people of Tauranga. See amazing views, beautiful beaches, historical sites, orchards and experience the taste of our world-renowned Manuka Honey, Kiwifruit and Avocado industries. At the completion of the tour your guide will transport you back to the port gates. 

Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, Live commentary on board, Local driver/guide, Manuka Honey, Kiwifruit and Avocado oil tastings, Port pickup and drop-off, Bottled water, Free Locally made Kiwifruit Ice cream

Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified, Gratuities

Reviewed By NZcitz

We had beautiful weather. This is a must to be able to experience the best views. Our guide was good and informative. Downside for anyone unable to walk unaided, not for wheelchair, steps quite steep. Pushchair can manage, money we'll spent. PS: I have both knees reconstructed but able to get around the hilly terrain.

5. Best of Rotorua Tour

The Mall, Mount Maunganui 3116, New Zealand Royale Coachlines
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4.7 based on 3 reviews

On our comfortable and modern Mercedes vehicles with experienced guides, we will take you to the best sights of Rotorua. Visit Te Puia, New Zealand’s living Maori cultural and geothermal centre and experience the stunning Pohutu Geyser, boiling mudpools and Maori arts. Then take a  scenic drive via Government Gardens, Rachel's Pool, Rotorua Lakefront, Redwood Forest and coast.   Tour Highlights • Te Puia • Maori Culture Concert • Geothermal Geysers • Government Gardens • Lakefront Views • Redwood Forest • Kiwifruit Country

Inclusions: Driver/guide, Headsets to hear the guide clearly, Live commentary on board, Local guide, Professional guide, Transport by air-conditioned minivan

Exclusions: Food and drinks

Reviewed By deho67

too much time in the van and except for the kiwi farm, not enough time at the wonderful venues we visited: literally 2 mins at the lookout, no time at the honey farm & restaurant to browse or buy an ice cream. while our tour guide was very knowledgeable, he was difficult to hear as we had NO headsets as mentioned in the tour description.When asked to turn the A/C up, it was meant with a grumbled reply 'I can only do so much'. unfortunately, would not recommend.

6. Private Tour: 8-Day North Island Tour from Auckland Including Rotorua and Wellington

The Road Trip New Zealand
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4.5 based on 4 reviews

Venture from Auckland to the North Island on this private 8-day tour that takes you by private, luxury vehicle to Coromandel, Whitianga, Rotorua, Tongariro National Park and Wellington. Take guided sightseeing tours, discover natural hot springs, witness amazing geothermal activity, enjoy scenic nature walks through kauri tree forests, and admire views of majestic volcanoes and beautiful beaches, with plenty of free time to explore more on your own. Your private guide will teach you about Maori culture, as well as the history, geography and wildlife of New Zealand. You’ll experience North Island’s highlights as well as hidden gems not seen on normal coach tours. The service that we provide is a private luxury tour service, not a large group tour. Other than our friendly tour staff you will not be sharing your tour with anyone outside of your own party so you can rest assured that this is your tour and we’ll do exactly what you want to make it your perfect trip.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Dinner, Dinner, Dinner, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Private tour, Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner), Live commentary on board, Professional tour guide (who is also the driver) , Transport by private vehicle including fuel , Hotel pickup and drop-off, Sightseeing tours of Auckland and Wellington, 7 nights accommodation in your selected category of hotel

Exclusions: Gratuities, Optional activities, Personal expenses, Food and drinks, not specified in the itinerary (lunch and dinner)

Reviewed By Pipnruss

Fiordland Lodge and Doubtful Sound. Fantastic ferry ride across Lake Manapouri and bus ride over the Wilmot Pass to board the Fiordland Navigator for 2 nights. 3 sunny, calm days to relax on board, spoiled by the chef's lovely food and Courtney's very knowledgeable commentary about the Sounds, history, wildlife, birdlife and little things like having complete silence in the Sound to enjoy the peace and look at the amazing mountains and their reflections in the calm water. An unexpected run out into the Tasman Sea was a bonus. The Fiordland Lodge is an American style Lodge built with lots of logs and wood and stone, very spacious. Friendly helpful staff. Located 6km from Te Anau. Our only concern was the lack of food choice for dinner, on a 3 course meal was offered, no light meals. The breakfast (included) was lovely, as was all the food, some interesting variations in tastes.

7. 5-Day New Zealand North and South Island Highlights Tour

Leisure Tours
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3.3 based on 8 reviews

Journey through the North Island of New Zealand and explore Waitomo, Rotorua and Lake Taupo, and discover the natural beauty of Kaikoura and Christchurch on this 5-day trip from Auckland to Christchurch or vice versa. See the glow worms at Waitomo Caves, relax at Rotorua's geothermal wonderland, see Giant Sperm Whales where mountains meet sea and be mesmerized by the natural beauty of New Zealand. This 5-day tour will have you travelling by coach, train and ferry with plenty of time at leisure to make this holiday truly magical.

Inclusions: Driver/Guides, Live commentary on board, Air-conditioned vehicle, Hotel pickup and drop-off, 4 nights accommodation, Waitomo Glow Worm Caves tour, Rotorua Activities, Ferry between Wellington and Picton, TranzCoastal train journey between Picton and Kaikoura (only from 01 October to 30 April), Kaikoura Whale Watch Tour

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities (Optional)

Reviewed By ClosesOnTour

Graham from Leisure Tours picked four of us up from our hotel for a half day wine tour, visiting four wineries with lunch included. He was friendly, very knowledgeable and pointed out places of interest as he drove us to the Waipara Valley. We were very comfortable in his people mover with plenty of room for us all. Lunch at Waipara Springs Winery was delicious and the staff were friendly and helpful. The three other wineries had knowledgeable and friendly staff telling us all about their wines. We tasted several varieties and they were delicious. Graham had a good rapport with each winery and took us into each of the tasting rooms. We would certainly recommend this tour. We look forward to visiting Christchurch again and would contact Leisure Tours regarding the other tours they offer.

8. 3-Day Wellington to Auckland Tour

Leisure Tours
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2.5 based on 2 reviews

This is an independent three day tour departing Wellington daily with two nights in a 4 - 4.5 star accommodation in Rotorua prior to your tour concluding in Auckland on day 3. The tour includes a full day in Rotorua with admission and tours of the Agrodome, Rainbow Springs and Te Puia. On day three the tour travels to Auckland via Waitomo where you will experience a guided tour of the glowworm caves. Hotel pick-ups and drop-offs are included for all transfers and activities listed.

Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, Hotel pickup and drop-off for Wellington, Rotorua, and Auckland, Commentary by local guide, 2-nights accommodation in the Rotorua, Admission fees and all transport/tour fees listed in itinerary

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities (optional)

Reviewed By ClosesOnTour

Graham from Leisure Tours picked four of us up from our hotel for a half day wine tour, visiting four wineries with lunch included. He was friendly, very knowledgeable and pointed out places of interest as he drove us to the Waipara Valley. We were very comfortable in his people mover with plenty of room for us all. Lunch at Waipara Springs Winery was delicious and the staff were friendly and helpful. The three other wineries had knowledgeable and friendly staff telling us all about their wines. We tasted several varieties and they were delicious. Graham had a good rapport with each winery and took us into each of the tasting rooms. We would certainly recommend this tour. We look forward to visiting Christchurch again and would contact Leisure Tours regarding the other tours they offer.

9. 3-Day Auckland to Wellington Tour

Leisure Tours
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1.0 based on 1 reviews

An independent three day tour departing Auckland daily with two nights 4 - 4.5 star accommodation in Rotorua prior to your tour concluding in Wellington on day 3. The tour includes a full day in Rotorua with admission and tours of the Agrodome, Rainbow Springs and Te Puia. On day one the tour travels to Rotorua via Waitomo where you will experience a guided tour of the glowworm caves. Hotel pick-ups and drop-offs are included for all transfers and activities listed.

Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, Hotel pickup and drop-off for Auckland, Rotorua and Wellington, Commentary by local guide, 2-nights accommodation in the Rotorua, Admission fees and all transport/tour fees listed in itinerary

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities (optional)

Reviewed By ClosesOnTour

Graham from Leisure Tours picked four of us up from our hotel for a half day wine tour, visiting four wineries with lunch included. He was friendly, very knowledgeable and pointed out places of interest as he drove us to the Waipara Valley. We were very comfortable in his people mover with plenty of room for us all. Lunch at Waipara Springs Winery was delicious and the staff were friendly and helpful. The three other wineries had knowledgeable and friendly staff telling us all about their wines. We tasted several varieties and they were delicious. Graham had a good rapport with each winery and took us into each of the tasting rooms. We would certainly recommend this tour. We look forward to visiting Christchurch again and would contact Leisure Tours regarding the other tours they offer.

10. Auckland to Wellington via Rotorua and Taupo 7 Day Private Tour

Sky Tower, Victoria Street West, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand TIME Unlimited Tours

Experience the diverse and stunning natural landscapes that the North Island of New Zealand has to offer. There are plenty of adventure filled and relaxing activities for you to choose from so you can do as little or as much as you like. Enjoy learning about the interesting history and culture of New Zealand topped off with some beautiful views combined with unique experiences for memories to last a lifetime.

Inclusions: Fully guided Private Tour in Mercedes luxury vehicle., Pick-up/drop-off in Auckland incl airport/cruise terminal., Tour times flexible to work in with your requirements., Complimentary snacks & water., All guide expenses (e.g. guide accommodation & meals)., All tours support local eco-cultural initiatives.

Exclusions: Potential entry fees., Guest accommodation and meals., Anything not specifically mentioned in the itinerary.

Reviewed By AylaS171

I had the best experience with Time Unlimited Tours, they were so prompt with their service. I had a group of 70 people getting transported from one venue to another. It was absolutely hassle free and my guests were very impressed! They were on time, so kind and helpful. Neill and Ceillhe are the loviest people and I just can't recommend their service enough!! 10/10 across the board. I would use this company again, ANY day of the week!

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