6 Best Workshops & Classes In Tauranga (With Reviews & Prices)

Tauranga isn’t just about stunning beaches and sunny days — it’s a place where you can learn new skills and create memorable experiences. Its warm climate, friendly local instructors, and welcoming environment make it ideal for interactive workshops and classes. Whether you want to ride your first wave, paddle a waka, or master the art of stand-up paddleboarding, Tauranga offers options that combine fun, learning, and culture. For example, the Group Beginner Surf Lessons at Mount Maunganui are perfect for easing into surfing with expert guidance, and the Waka Ama Lesson offers a deep dive into Māori tradition while paddling out in a outrigger canoe.

We particularly like how these experiences blend outdoor activity with cultural insights, making your visit memorable beyond just sightseeing. Plus, many tours provide all necessary equipment, so you can focus on having a good time without fuss. This guide will walk you through six top workshops and classes, helping you choose the perfect fit for your interests and skill level.

Quick Overview

This list includes everything from beginner surf lessons to culturally immersive paddling classes. You’ll find options for families, private coaching, and eco-friendly water sports — each with its own unique appeal. For more details, check out the Group Beginner Surf Lesson in Mount Maunganui, which kicks off the list with a friendly introduction to surfing for beginners. Now, let’s get into the specifics of each experience.

1. Group Beginner Surf Lesson in Mount Maunganui

At number one, we start with a popular and highly-rated beginner surf lesson held right at Mount Maunganui, one of New Zealand’s most iconic beaches. For just $49.03 per person, you get a 1 hour 30-minute session led by certified instructors who focus on the basics — paddling, standing, and ocean safety. What makes this experience stand out is the small group size, capped at 8 participants, allowing for personalized tips and quick feedback.

The lesson is designed specifically for beginners, with a step-by-step approach that prioritizes safety and fun. Equipment such as surfboards and wetsuits are provided, so all you need to bring along is swimwear and a towel. The instructor, Patrick, gets high praise for his helpful advice and friendly manner, making even nervous first-timers feel comfortable. This tour is ideal for travelers wanting to dip their toes into surfing without a big commitment or expensive lessons.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those new to surfing, this lesson offers an excellent introduction at a reasonable price, with a small-group feel that fosters confidence.

2. Mount Maunganui: Group Beginner Surf Lesson

Ranked second, this highly-rated surf lesson in Mount Maunganui gives you a full 1.5 hours of guided instruction on New Zealand’s best beginner surf beach. The small group setting ensures personalized coaching, and all equipment is provided free of charge. The tour’s standout feature is the top-tier coaching, considered the best in NZ, which helps you learn quickly and safely.

The instructors emphasize a non-judgemental environment, ideal for first-timers or those who want a relaxed learning experience. Many reviewers comment on the friendly atmosphere and the quality of instruction. Whether you’re traveling alone or with friends, this class offers a solid foundation for surfing, with tips tailored to your pace. The focus on safety and fun makes it especially suitable for families or groups of friends.

Value for money is impressive given the expert guidance and all equipment included. Plus, the small class size means you get plenty of individual attention.

Bottom Line: For a relaxed, friendly, and expert-led introduction to surfing, this tour delivers excellent value and a memorable experience.

3. Family Surfing Lesson in Mount Maunganui

Next up, we have a family-friendly option that’s perfect for ages 10 and up. This 1.5-hour lesson, priced at $36.48 per person, is tailored to introduce the whole family to surfing together. With small groups capped at 8 and specialized instruction, it’s suitable for complete beginners and kids alike.

All gear, including boards and wetsuits, are provided so families can focus on learning and bonding. The lesson covers ocean safety fundamentals, paddling, and standing techniques, making it accessible to all skill levels. The instructors ensure a safe, supportive environment, which is especially important for nervous beginners or younger children. The coastal scenery adds an extra layer of enjoyment, creating a fun and relaxing atmosphere.

While there are no reviews yet, the emphasis on safety and family bonding, combined with the affordable price, makes this a compelling choice. It’s ideal if you’re traveling with children or want a shared adventure.

Bottom Line: A great way for families to learn together, creating lasting memories while safely enjoying the surf.

4. Mount Maunganui: Private Surf Lesson

If you prefer a more tailored experience, the Private Surf Lesson offers a one-on-one coaching session that lasts about 1.5 hours. This experience is perfect for those who want to accelerate their learning or need personalized feedback. For a premium price, you’ll get undivided attention from an instructor who can help identify and correct any technical flaws, bad habits, or overlooked pitfalls.

The focus here is on rapid improvement and moving through the beginner stages faster. It’s especially suited for intermediate surfers or motivated beginners who want quick results. Since there are no outsiders, your coach can customize the session to your specific goals and skill level, making it highly effective.

The reviews mention how helpful and focused the coaching is, with many students remarking on noticeable progress after just one session. However, this option is less budget-friendly, so it’s best for travelers serious about fast-tracking their surf skills.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a personalized, intensive coaching experience that guarantees faster progress.

5. Stand Up Paddle Board Lesson in Mount Maunganui

Next, we explore a culturally rich Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) lesson. For $46.54 per person, you’ll learn to SUP with local Māori instructors at Mount Maunganui, combining water skills with cultural insights. The 1-hour lesson emphasizes connection with the land and sea, with instructors sharing Māori values and stories, making it more than just a water sport.

This tour is particularly special because of its focus on cultural exchange and environmental awareness. The SUP equipment is included, and the lesson takes place at the scenic Pilot Bay, offering a relaxed environment for beginners. The instructors’ approach fosters a welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect for nervous paddlers or those interested in Māori traditions.

While it’s not primarily a technical lesson, it provides a meaningful introduction to paddling and Māori culture, enriching your understanding of the local environment. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a peaceful activity with cultural depth.

Bottom Line: A culturally immersive and relaxing way to learn SUP while gaining insight into Māori values and traditions.

6. Waka Ama Lesson in Mount Maunganui

Finally, the Waka Ama Lesson offers a unique chance to connect with Māori heritage through outrigger canoe paddling. Priced at $46.37 per person for about an hour, this experience emphasizes teamwork, technique, and cultural storytelling. The supportive environment makes it suitable for first-timers, including those slightly nervous about water sports.

You’ll learn the basics of paddling, how to work as a team, and the significance of Waka Ama in Māori culture. The instructors share stories about voyaging and the land-sea relationship that adds depth to the experience. The lesson takes place in Pilot Bay, with equipment provided, so you can focus on learning and enjoying.

Many participants find this experience eye-opening, especially when understanding the cultural importance of Waka Ama. It’s a meaningful activity that combines physical activity with cultural education, making it perfect for those wanting a deeper connection to New Zealand’s Māori roots.

Bottom Line: An authentic and educational paddling experience that emphasizes community, culture, and confidence on the water.

How to Choose

Picking the right water activity in Tauranga depends on your interests, skill level, and how much time or money you want to invest. If you’re new to surfing and want a fun, low-pressure introduction, the Group Beginner Surf Lessons are hard to beat. For personalized coaching, consider the Private Surf Lesson. Families or groups of friends should look at the Family Surfing Lesson, which emphasizes safety and shared fun.

Those interested in cultural experiences and eco-awareness might prefer the SUP Lesson or the Waka Ama Lesson, which combine activity with Māori storytelling.

When booking, consider the weather, your fitness level, and whether you want a quick lesson or a more in-depth experience. All tours provide equipment, so focus on choosing based on your interest and desire for personalized or group learning.

Final Thoughts

Tauranga offers a diverse array of workshops and classes that cater to a variety of interests and skill levels. Whether you’re eager to catch your first wave, paddle a traditional Māori canoe, or simply enjoy a cultural water-based activity, there’s something here for you. For beginners, the small-group surf lessons provide excellent guidance and value, while the cultural paddling experiences give a deeper connection to local traditions and environment.

If you’re traveling with family or friends, the Family Surfing Lesson is a fun bonding activity. For those wanting quick progress or personalized attention, the Private Surf Lesson is a top pick.

Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, as these classes tend to fill up quickly. Whichever you choose, these workshops promise not just skills, but stories and memories you’ll cherish long after your day in Tauranga.