What to expect

Find out what you are likely to encounter when you first step ashore in Tauranga. Information about our temperatures, port facilities, tour departures and local customs are available here. To help you prepare for your day ahead in the Bay of Plenty we have summarised some key things you might need to know.

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WHERE AM I?

Tauranga is the largest city in the Bay of Plenty and your ship will berth at Mount Maunganui (Tauranga’s largest suburb). Mount Maunganui is a bustling peninsular with the Pacific Ocean on one side and Tauranga’s sheltered harbour on the other. There are plenty of cafés, restaurants, shops and attractions here at ‘The Mount’. Tauranga’s CBD is a 10-minute drive away, over the harbour bridge.

 

HOW CAN I REACH DOWNTOWN TAURANGA?

A Hop On Hop Off bus is provided for cruise ship passengers. Tickets can be purchased from the iport, Mount Maunganui or Tauranga i-SITE visitor centres.

The bus departs from the port where your ship is berthed. The first trip starts at 9am, and further HOHO buses service the route every 30 minutes throughout the day. The full return loop takes 90 minutes if you want to sightsee and don't want to disembark from the bus at the attractions along the way. 

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WHERE CAN I GET LOCAL INFORMATION?

Our i-SITE Visitor Information Centres know all the best things to do, places to stay and they can even help you make the bookings and find the best way to get there! The i-SITE team are travel experts for the Coastal Bay of Plenty region so you’ll be in safe hands when you stop in to see them. There is a pop up i-SITE operating within the Port for all larger ship arrivals. You are able to purchase shore excursions, hire cars and get local information from this Port based i-SITE. Additionally, there are local i-Sites. Click here to find out how our staff can help you.

 

WHERE WILL MY TOUR DEPART?

All tours you may have pre-booked or booked locally on the day will depart from right outside the port gates. Tours will be clearly signposted for you.

 

WHAT SHOULD I TAKE WITH ME?

Good footwear is essential so you can comfortably walk around. Sunscreen and hats are important in spring and summer. Take a jacket or extra layer with you in spring, autumn and winter, especially if your tour is inland to Rotorua or Hobbiton.

Bay of Plenty Beaches

CAN I WALK ON AND OFF THE SHIP?

Yes. You can return to your ship as often as you wish during the day. Just remember to take your photo ID with you (such as your passport or driver’s licence) so that you can pass the port security on your return.

 

HOW WARM IS IT?

Temperatures vary depending on the time of year. Click here for seasonal information. Spring and autumn can be windy and/or cool, so take a light jacket or extra layer with you. Sunscreen is essential in spring, summer and early autumn.

 

IS WI-FI AVAILABLE?

Several cafés 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 device’s Wi-Fi options for ‘EOL’.

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HOW SAFE IS THIS CITY?

Pickpockets and serious crime are not major issues here. But be sensible with your belongings; don’t leave valuables on display or unattended, and always lock your vehicle.

 

DO I NEED TO TIP?

No. Tipping is not expected or required anywhere within New Zealand. All prices already include our 15% Goods and Services Tax (GST).

 

WHERE CAN I GO TO A PLACE OF WORSHIP?

There are many places of worship around Mount Maunganui and Tauranga which hold services. Please ask our staff at the Cruise Visitor Information Centre for directions and details.