Shore Excursion From Tauranga: Helicopter Flight To Active Volcano And Kiwifruit Orchard Cart Tour

Join us on a once in a lifetime opportunity to land and walk in the crater of New Zealand’s most active volcano. We start your tour at the Port of Tauranga, where we will meet you at the port gates. From here we first take you on a sightseeing tour of Mount Manuaganui the area where your ship has docked. Take in the beautiful surrounding, from bustling coffee shops, small designer boutiques, white sandy beaches and not forgetting the famous Mount, which the area is named after.

A short drive later and we will arrive at your first attraction, after a safety briefing from your pilot you will then board your helicopter. During the flight, keep your eyes peeled for sea life such as schools of fish and dolphins. Soak up the aerial views above the crater before landing on its lunar-like surface. Words cannot express the experience that is walking on the active crater floor of White Island. The unique lunar landscape is an integral part of the Pacific ring of fire. This continuously active volcano, with sulphur-lipped fumaroles, active volcanic vents, steaming Crater Lake, bubbling mud pools, hot streams and desolate mining ruins combined create a surreal experience. You will feel like you are walking on a different planet. Walk through crumbling mining ruins to view the weathered remains of what was a working factory from 1923 until it was abandoned in 1933. Tours on this volcano are conducted by your pilot-guide, whose wealth of knowledge about the island’s history and geology enhances the experience. Ample opportunity for stunning photographs.

Once back on land we make our way to our second attraction, after just a short drive we will arrive at working kiwifruit orchard. You can enjoy a 45 minute Kiwifruit orchard tour, on themed cart ride with full commentary from your guide. You will learn how the unique combination of climate and soils allows them to grow the world’s healthiest fruit – Kiwifruit. Stops along the way gives you the opportunity to see the fuzzy little fruit growing while learning a little knowledge about why this fruit thrives here! Walk under the vines and get up close to the growing fruit. Learn how this wondrous fruit became established here in New Zealand which, surprisingly, it’s not a native plant but an interesting story explains all! At the end of your tour you will be invited to taste-test different varieties of this fruit plus jams, juices, and much more.

Also included in the tour, you will be treated to a complementary local homemade kiwi fruit ice cream, perfect for a hot summer day.