The 10 Best Private Tours in Bay of Plenty Region, North Island

March 29, 2022 Kelli Reichel

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. Private Shore Excursion Rotorua/ Tauranga Maori culture, Geyser & concert

Tauranga, Tauranga, Bay of Plenty Region, North Island Arrow Tours
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5.0 based on 3 reviews

THESE ARE some ideas to enjoy on a Private Tour ..........Enjoy a fun and informative tour with an experienced local guide showcasing the iconic Mount Maunganui, beautiful sandy beaches and million dollar homes plus many Rotorua and Tauranga's highlights. Also visit Kiwifruit Country Store for a kiwifruit tasting, orchard tour and souvenirs, plus beautiful beaches waterfalls and much more. In Rotorua visit the Geothermal area at either the living Maori Village at Whakarewarewa or Te Puia and immerse yourself in Maori culture. See the bubbling pools and stunning Pohutu Geyser, plus the Maori Cultural performance including the famous "Haka." Other attractions can include soaking in the soothing mineral waters at Polynesian Spa and enjoy breathtaking views and thrill seeking rides at the Skyline Gondola.

Inclusions: GST (Goods and Services Tax), Bottled water, Professional guide, Port pickup, Transport by air-conditioned minivan

Exclusions: Lunch, Gratuities

Reviewed By Claireg2007

We had an amazing day with Arrow tours. We were large getting off the cruise but the new owner Toby drove us to the first stop off point. Kerry was an excellent guide and made sure that we all enjoyed the day. I hope that the recent happenings in the world will clear soon and wish you every success.

2. Private Full-Day Rotorua Tour from Auckland

Legend Tours and Travels Day Tours
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Get ready to explore the amazing Rotorua. Rotorua is New Zealand's ultimate holiday destination for locals and overseas visitors. Roto means lake and Rua means two – together, Rotorua means 'Second Lake'. A dream spot for sightseeing and a region steeped in Māori legend, history, and culture. On this tour, you will visit famous attractions such as the Pikirangi Maori Village, Kiwi House, and the Geothermal Valley. This is a tour including a driver and we can match your ideal itinerary or you can take our suggested. The tour does not include entrance fees. Highlights: - Te Puia - Government Garden - Redwood Forest - Green/Blue Lake - Rotorua Lake - Private tour allows for a flexible itinerary

Inclusions: Light refreshments and bottled water, Transport by private vehicle, Hotel pickup and drop-off

Exclusions: Lunch, Food and drinks, unless specified, Souvenir photos (available to purchase), Entrance Tickets

Reviewed By K7293HPjosephh

Wonderful day trip to the glow worms and the Hobbit farm Driver was the best and took great care of us Long day but worth the expense of a private car

3. Tauranga Shore Excursion: Private Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland and Whakarewarewa Maori Cultural Village

Zealandier Tours
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5.0 based on 5 reviews

Visit two of Rotorua’s most famous sites, Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland and Whakarewarewa (The Living Maori Village), on a private tour with an informative guide when your cruise ship docks in Tauranga. Marvel at geothermal wonders such as steaming volcanic vents, boiling mud ponds and natural hot pools in an otherworldly range of colors. Then learn about Maori culture and history, and see landmarks including the Pohutu and Prince of Wales geysers during your visit to Whakarewarewa village.

Inclusions: Port pickup and drop-off, Driver/guide, Covered by Viator's worry-free policy: guaranteed on-time return to your ship

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities

Reviewed By Sabrina D

They were there at the ship and easy to find .. they were fun and friendly always mindful of the time so that we were never worried about getting back to the ship on time. very informative and even gave us a goodie bag of food so we can see everything.. loved the tour and guide and would do it again with them

4. Private Shore Excursion: Taste of Plenty Food Tour

1 The Mall, Bay of Plenty 3116, New Zealand Cruise Tours Tauranga
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5.0 based on 4 reviews

Join us on a scenic foodie adventure as you taste and sip your way around the Bay of Plenty region, named by the great explorer Captain James Cook.   On this bountiful foodie tour you will get at least 8 tastings which may include: artisan baked goods, local cheeses, seafood, Manuka honey, berries, fruits, famous pies and home made kiwifruit ice cream to name a few. Depending on the day of the tour we may stop at the local farmers market to see the seasonal produce, or it might be a visit to our favourite coffee roaster to learn about the new coffee trends. You will visit kiwi fruit and avocado orchards which dominate agriculture in the region, and I will also take you to one of the most historic and beautiful beaches in New Zealand to taste an iconic kiwi favourite!   If you are foodie you will love this tour!!

Inclusions: Private small group tour, Professional guide, Beverages, Light lunch with a glass of wine, Live commentary on board, Food tastings, All taxes, fees and handling charges, Port pickup and drop-off, Snacks, Alcoholic Beverages

Exclusions: Optional food products to take home, Personal expenses

Reviewed By NoPassportRequiredFL

Visited Rotorua Village and the Geothermal valley on the same day I think it was part of the glow worm tour (which i don't recommend). The village tour was okay. They dance and sing and its very traditional. I liked the Geothermal Valley. Really cool.

5. Shore Excursion Port Tauranga to Rotorua

Port of Tauranga Ltd, 2 Salisbury Avenue, Mount Maunganui, Tauranga 3116, New Zealand Cruise Tauranga
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

This tour is ideal for family groups or friends travelling together who may want to do different things in Rotorua or be free to visit other venues such as the famous Waitomo Glow Worm caves. Maximum vehicle size for groups is 15. Your tour departs from the end of the wharf and you will be dropped of there at the end of the day in plenty of time to board your ship. Languages outside of English are subject to availability, please contact us beforehand.

Inclusions: GST (Goods and Services Tax), Local taxes, Driver/guide, Live commentary on board, Local guide, Pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points, Port pickup, Private tour, Transport by air-conditioned minivan

Exclusions: Drinks, Food and drinks, Gratuities

Reviewed By Bob H

My wife and I were on a tour and visited the various locations. The Glow-worm caves and Pohutu Geyser were very impressive as were the Hot Springs.

6. From Tauranga. Private Day Tour. Wia-O-Tapu Wonderland & Te Puia Geysers

1 The Mall, Bay of Plenty 3116, New Zealand Tauranga Cruise and Tour
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5.0 based on 2 reviews

Two of New Zealand's most spectacular Geothermal Parks. Small Groups, Max 8 people. Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Wonderland ... A self-guided tour following demarcated tracks through a stunning variety of volcanic phenomena. You’ll see fantastic naturally colored hot and cold pools, the world-famous Champagne Pool, massive craters and New Zealand’s largest boiling mud pool; Wai-O-Tapu was formed over thousands of years of continuous volcanic activity. Te Puia Geysers ... Heartland of Rotorua's geothermal activity & Maori culture. See and experience 'Pohutu' geyser the largest active geyser in the Southern Hemisphere in action rumbling away as it erupts boiling water and steam up to 100 feet. An awesome sight. See & smell boiling mud pools, hot water pools, steam vents, a steaming volcanic landscape.

Inclusions: Bottled water, Air-conditioned vehicle, Professional local kiwi tour guide/driver, Full audio commentary

Exclusions: Admission fees & lunch excluded

Reviewed By Tourist808

We booked the Private Waitomo Caves and Hobbitton with Tauranga Scenic Tours. Both tours are must dos! I’m a Lord of the Rings fan, so I really enjoyed Hobbitton. Patrick told us how the kiwi fruit is grown, and pulled off the road so we could see a plant for ourselves, We were lucky enough to see cherry blossoms in full bloom, and Patrick found some excellent trees for us to stop and take photos with. That was an unexpected surprise - how many cherry blossom trees are on the route to Waitomo. We were a little pressed for time between our bookings for Waitomo Caves and Hobbitton, but we also spent more time in the gift shops than Patrick probably figured. Patrick got us his discounted tour ticket rates and let us decide how to pay. He was very accommodating. I would use him again if I were to return to Tauranga.

7. From Tauranga. Private Day Tour. Rotorua Geysers and Hobbiton Movie Set.

1 The Mall, Bay of Plenty 3116, New Zealand Tauranga Cruise and Tour
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

See two world-famous attractions in one day. Small-Group, Max 8 People. Te Puia Geysers ... Heartland of Rotorua's geothermal activity & Maori culture. See and experience 'Pohutu' geyser the largest active geyser in the Southern Hemisphere in action rumbling away as it erupts boiling water and steam up to 100 feet. An awesome sight. See & smell boiling mud pools, hot water pools, steam vents, a steaming volcanic landscape. HOBBITON ... A Visit to Middle Earth - Escape into the enchanting world of JRR Tolkien’s famous stories. A world of enduring fantasy where the amazing films were brought to life. Set across the 12 acres Hobbit Village. See Bilbo’s house, The Water Mill, Green Dragon Inn, the Arched Bridge, 44 Hobbit houses, gardens, wandering pathways, The Party Tree, lakes. If you haven’t read the books or seen the movies you will still love it.

Inclusions: Bottled water, Air-conditioned vehicle, Professional Kiwi Tour Guide, Full audio commentary

Exclusions: Lunch, Excludes entry fees to Te Puia & Hobbiton

Reviewed By jasoncuray

I had a wonderful tour off the cruise with this wonderful guy, Pat! The trip was full of information, he'll be there to pick you up, our trip started with the drive to Rotorua and we had a wonderful time there and it is such a fascinating experience to witness Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal, HUGE KiwiFruit farm, and beautiful sceneries(falls, rivers, mountain) on our side trips(For Instagram lol)! The Living Maori Village experience is unforgettable, you get to sing and dance with them and witness the famous "Haka". The Maori people are just like all New Zealanders(Kiwis) and the most friendly and inviting people I have been around. You will appreciate going around with Pat, such an amazing guy I would say. Worth it!!!

8. Private Tour Rotorua Shore Excursion up to 8 Passengers

4 Salisbury Avenue, Bay of Plenty 3116, New Zealand Independent Tours Tauranga
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5.0 based on 11 reviews

Take a tour in your own private minivan with an experienced local guide. This Private tour is for a group of up to 8 people. Your day will vary from stunning white sandy beaches, to boiling mud pools and beautiful forests. There is so much to see and experience in this stunning part of New Zealand. Choose an attraction to visit or enjoy all the "Freebies" this area offers. I can customise your day. Do as much or as little as you choose. Its "Your Day Your Way". Have a great day out with your own Private guide. "FREEBIES": - Sandy Beaches and beautiful countryside - Honey and Kiwi fruit tasting and orchard visit - Lake Rotorua and the Redwood Forest - Rotorua City Government Gardens - Kuirau Park Geothermal area with bubbling mud, hot springs and a footbath OPTIONAL EXTRAS: - Whakarewarewa Living Maori Village - Te Puia Geotherrmal Park and NZ Maori Atrs & Craft Institiute - Skyline Gondola & luge - Agrodome Sheep show - Waiotapu

Inclusions: Private transportation, GST (Goods and Services Tax)

Exclusions: Entrance fees to attractions as specified, We will stop at a local cafe., Snacks

Reviewed By MYSPACE-71

Wendy is a wonderful guide - friendly and informative. There's lots to see and do around Tauranga. Highly recommended.

9. Private Tour Tauranga Highlights Shore Excursion up to 8 passengers

Salisbury Wharf, 1 The Mall, Mount Maunganui, Tauranga 3116, New Zealand Independent Tours Tauranga
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5.0 based on 2 reviews

Take a tour in your own private minivan with an experienced local guide. This Private tour is for a group of up to 8 people. Your day will vary from stunning white sandy beaches, to rainforest walks and stunning waterfalls. There is so much to see and experience in this stunning part of New Zealand. Choose an attraction to visit or enjoy all the "Freebies" this area offers. I can customise your day. Do as much or as little as you choose. Its "Your Day Your Way". Have a great day out with your own Private guide. "FREEBIES": - Sandy Beaches and beautiful countryside - Honey and Kiwi fruit tasting and orchard visit - McLaren Falls Park and bushwalks - Tauranga Harbourfront - Hairy McLary Bronze sculptures OPTIONAL EXTRAS: - The Elms Mission House Tauranga

Inclusions: GST (Goods and Services Tax), Private transportation

Exclusions: Entrance fees to attractions as specified, We will stop at a local cafe., Snacks

Reviewed By mackels2018

We arranged the tour online and Wendy met as at our cruise boat dock, perfectly on schedule. It was delightful to spend a wonderful day touring the countryside and visiting Hobbiton. She took care of everything and all we did was show up. As an added bonus we stopped by a honey store for a sample and view of active bees. Wendy is great company and knows the area well. She provided insightful commentary and is very pleasant to be with. Look forward to a return visit.

10. Tauranga Shore Excursion: Hobbiton + Waitomo Glowworm Caves Private Tour

Port of Tauranga Ltd, 2 Salisbury Avenue, Mount Maunganui 3116, New Zealand New Zealand Discovery Tours
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4.9 based on 14 reviews

Shore Excursion from Tauranga Port. Deluxe Private Small Group Tour. Two of New Zealand's most popular attractions, transport in a luxury vehicle. Begin with a drive through the lush countryside heading to Waitomo Caves where you will travel by boat along an underground river through the mesmerising Glowworm Grotto. You'll gently glide through the impressive underground caverns in silent darkness amid the beauty of twinkling glowworms overhead. The Hobbiton Movie Set you will be taken on an offical fully guided tour of the Hobbiton movie set, which was created in impressive detail for the filming of the hobbit films! And where Bilbo Baggins and Frodo live! Learn the movie secrets of how this movie came to life. Then enjoy a complementary drink in the World famous Green Dragon inn.

Inclusions: Transport by small mini van with air-conditioning, Professional Hobbiton guide to guide you around Hobbiton, Professional Guide to Waitomo Glowworms caves including a boat ride, Port pickup and drop-off

Exclusions: Personal expenses, Lunch, Souvenir photos (available to purchase)

Reviewed By Kerry G

Amazing scenery, friendly staff. Very well laid out facility and so clean. Everyone that visits Rotorua should visit this place.

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