Driving across Tauranga’s harbour bridge, it’s easy to overlook the massive operation happening right before your eyes. As New Zealand’s largest port, the Port of Tauranga handled a staggering 23.6 million tonnes of cargo in the 2023/2024 financial year. Once upon a time, locals could wander freely along the wharves, even casting a line to fish. But as the port has grown and health and safety regulations have tightened, public access has become restricted.
Thankfully, the Port of Tauranga still offers a rare glimpse behind the scenes through its popular community tours. These guided bus tours take visitors on an exclusive journey from the cruise ship docks through the bustling logging wharves and container yards, where cranes, forklifts, and straddle carriers work in perfect sync to move cargo.
With more than 1,400 ship visits a year, it’s guaranteed you’ll see plenty of action as the port continuously pieces together and dismantles a massive logistical puzzle.
Beyond its vital role in trade, the Port of Tauranga is also a haven for local wildlife, providing sanctuary to penguins, godwits, and dotterels. But its commitment to the community doesn’t stop there—the port generously supports numerous charities and organisations across Tauranga, including Waipuna Hospice. For many years, all proceeds from tour ticket sales have been donated to Waipuna Hospice, helping to fund essential palliative care services. Through the tours and other fundraising efforts, the Port of Tauranga has contributed over $42,000 to Waipuna Hospice over the years, an incredible show of generosity!
With tickets priced at just $5, it’s no surprise that the two weeks of tours offered each January sell out quickly. But for those who haven’t yet had the chance to experience “a day on the port,” there’s good news! The Port of Tauranga will be running its next week of tours during the July school holidays.
Bookings open in June. To book your spot, call 07 572 8899 or visit the Port of Tauranga Facebook page.