Why choose this tour ?

Travel Ed is a Māori whānau (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 guide is a storyteller, who 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 warm 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. Minimum of 3 passengers to operate.



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What makes Tauranga History and Culture a unique experience ?

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.

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)

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Awesome views of Tauranga Harbour and coastline from the surrounding hills

Tour Description & Additional Info:

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infant seat may be available on request when booking
  • Travel time is included on the total tour duration.
  • Could be challenging for those who find walking for 20 minutes or more


Options To Choose for Your Trip:

  • Tauranga Māori History and Culture
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    Small group: To ensure a personal experience this tour is restricted to a maximum of 9 manuhiri (guests)
    Duration: 5 hours: The tour will take approximately 5.5 hrs including drive time between stops at places of significance.
    Local food and drink: Locally produced water infused with traditional mānuka honey. Optional stop at a popular Māori/Japanese fusion eatery
    Mount Maunganui & Tauranga: Guests will go around the harbour from Mount Maunganui to Tauranga and Papamoa, including through kiwifruit growing region
    Small van: Comfortable and spacious fully air conditioned van
    Personal Experience: Each guest becomes a part of our whānau whānui (extended family). Your guide will embrace you as part of our community.
    Pickup included

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Special Instructions:

    Please be advised..

  • This Tour is Provided by Travel Ed t/a Mana Māori Experiences.
  • Tour Timezone & Starts at Pacific/Auckland.
  • Mobile or paper ticket accepted.
  • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
  • This Tour is Rated 5 Stars based on 15 valid reviews on VIATOR.
  • Minimum 1 Travelers is required to book.
  • Maximum 9 Travelers is accepted for booking.