The Bay of Plenty Region isn’t just about stunning coastlines and beaches—it’s also a treasure trove of unique tours and experiences that bring the area’s natural beauty and local flavor right to your fingertips. Whether you’re a foodie eager to taste freshly picked avocados or an outdoor enthusiast ready to explore Māori culture in a lush forest, this region offers something for all. We especially like the guided avocado tours for their blend of scenic orchard visits and tasty treats, or the distillery tour that showcases local spirits and botanicals. These experiences provide authentic, hands-on insights you simply can’t get from a guidebook.
For those who want a deeper cultural connection, the Maori forest walk with local guides offers a chance to learn about the environment and traditions directly from the people who grew up here. Each experience on our list captures a different facet of the Bay of Plenty and makes for a memorable outing—whether for a quick half-day or a full-day adventure.
Quick Overview
Our list features a mix of nature-based tours and culinary experiences—from the scenic Katikati Guided Avocado Adventures and Gourmet Avocado Tour to the distillery visit at Matahui and Māori-guided walks in Whirinaki Forest. Each offers a unique way to connect with the region’s landscape, culture, and flavors.
1. Katikati: Guided Avocado Adventures with Tasty Treats
Starting with the avocado itself, this guided tour is a must for anyone curious about how these creamy fruits grow and what makes New Zealand avocados special. Led by the grower, the tour lasts about 1.5 hours and is set in a picturesque orchard filled with spectacular avocado trees and native birds. The guide shares insights on the cultivation and harvest, making it a particularly engaging experience for nature lovers and foodies alike.
What really sets this tour apart is the opportunity to taste some of the best avocado dishes prepared on-site. From avocado smoothies to salads, each bite offers a fresh perspective on this versatile fruit. The orchard is easy to reach, and the walk is suitable for most people, including those in wheelchairs. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, informative experience with a delicious ending. Reviews highlight the friendly guides and the stunning orchard setting, with many visitors saying it “exceeded expectations.”
Bottom line: If you’re a fan of fresh food, natural scenery, and learning about how avocados are grown, this tour offers excellent value and a unique taste of local agriculture.
2. Katikati: Guided Gourmet Avocado Tour
For those more interested in food than farming, the Guided Gourmet Avocado Tour offers a similar 1.5-hour experience but with a focus on tasting and culinary exploration. Led by the same expert grower, this tour emphasizes the delicious ways avocados are prepared and enjoyed. Visitors get to sample a variety of avocado dishes, from traditional spreads to inventive salads, all while soaking in beautiful orchard views.
What makes this experience stand out is the emphasis on flavor pairings and presentation—it’s a culinary treat for anyone who loves to sample local produce in a relaxed setting. The tour also provides insights into the native birds and the orchard’s ecosystem, adding an educational touch. The guide’s explanations make it clear why New Zealand avocados have such a good reputation internationally.
If you’re traveling with a keen interest in foodie experiences and want a more interactive, tasting-focused outing, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly suitable for small groups and those with dietary preferences, as the focus remains on flavor and freshness. The reviews demonstrate high satisfaction, especially for the friendly guides and quality of the food.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for travelers who want to combine their love of food with a scenic walk, all within a manageable time frame.
3. Bay of Plenty: Matahui Distillery Tour
For those interested in spirits and botanicals, the Matahui Distillery Tour offers a fascinating look into how local gin and liqueurs are created. At just $29 per person, this is a cost-effective way to learn about distillation while sampling some of New Zealand’s best spirits. The tour guides explain the distillation process and show how they produce their award-winning gins and flavors like fennel liqueur.
The distillery’s permaculture garden is a highlight, as it supplies many botanicals used in the spirits. Visitors can see the plants up close and learn about sustainable practices. After the tour, the complimentary tasting allows you to sample the various spirits, giving insight into the flavor profiles and what makes Matahui’s products stand out.
This experience is perfect for spirits connoisseurs or anyone curious about small-batch distilling. Reviews note that the staff are passionate and knowledgeable, and the tasting is well-balanced, not overly commercial. It’s an excellent stop for a relaxed afternoon, especially if you enjoy discovering unique local flavors.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in learning about how artisan spirits are made and want to enjoy a tasting, this tour offers good value and an engaging experience.
4. Rotorua: Whirinaki Forest Day & Night Walking With Us
For those looking to connect deeply with Maori culture and New Zealand’s wilderness, the Whirinaki Forest Day & Night Walk is a standout. Led by local Maori guides, the 8.5-hour tour includes guided walks through the ancient rainforest, sharing stories about the environment and traditions from the region’s Chief and his community. The guides grew up here and bring authentic knowledge and perspectives to the experience.
The walk covers different parts of the forest, with opportunities to see native wildlife, learn about traditional uses of plants, and hear stories passed down through generations. The cultural component adds richness to the experience, making it more than just a hike—it’s a chance to understand the deep bond between the people and the land.
You’ll need comfortable shoes, outdoor clothing, and a sense of adventure. The tour includes pick-up from Tauranga, Rotorua, or Taupo, and is limited to 16 participants, ensuring a personal touch. Reviews mention the guides’ passion and knowledge, with many describing the experience as “eye-opening” and “authentic.”
Bottom line: Ideal for outdoor lovers and culture enthusiasts who want a meaningful, immersive walk that combines nature and Maori traditions.
How to Choose
Deciding between these tours depends on your interests and schedule. If you’re passionate about agriculture and food, the avocado tours (guided and gourmet) are excellent choices—they offer a relaxed pace and tasty rewards. For spirits lovers, the distillery tour combines education with tasting and is perfect for a half-day outing. If you want a cultural and natural experience, the Maori forest walk (Whirinaki Forest) provides depth and authenticity, especially if you’re interested in indigenous stories and wildlife.
Think about your budget—the distillery tour is quite affordable, while the avocado experiences offer a mix of free and paid options. Your available time is also a factor—most tours are between 1.5 and 8.5 hours, so plan accordingly. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons, to secure spots on popular tours.
The Bay of Plenty offers a genuinely diverse array of tours and experiences that will appeal to foodies, nature lovers, and culture seekers alike. If you’re short on time, the avocado tours provide a sweet taste of local agriculture and flavor. For a more immersive cultural experience, the Maori rainforest walk offers insights you won’t find elsewhere. For spirits enthusiasts, the Matahui Distillery promises a relaxed afternoon with a splash of local innovation.
No matter your interests, booking your preferred tour ahead of time is the best way to ensure a memorable journey into this vibrant region. Each experience promises a genuine taste of Bay of Plenty’s rich landscapes and traditions—so take your pick and enjoy your visit.