Explore Group New Zealand

Explore Group New Zealand Explore the Hauraki Gulf & the Bay of Islands with us! Sail | Cruise | Dine | Islands | Wildlife
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We’re offering the chance to give dad a free day out on the water this Father’s Day! Search the Hauraki Gulf for whales ...
18/08/2026

We’re offering the chance to give dad a free day out on the water this Father’s Day!

Search the Hauraki Gulf for whales and dolphins on our Tīkapa Moana Whale and Dolphin Cruise, wander the native bush of Rotoroa Island or Tiritiri Matangi Island, or treat him to a long lunch and wine tasting at Man O’ War Vineyard on Waiheke Island. In the Bay of Islands, our Discover the Bay cruise threads through to the iconic Hole in the Rock, with a stop for lunch at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island.

Simply book one of the selected experiences below using promo code DADSGOFREE26 and the special offer will be applied to your booking.

Offer valid for travel between Sunday 6 September and Sunday 20 September 2026. Conditions apply*

Tikapa Moana Whale, Dolphin Wildlife Cruise

A day out on the water, dolphins in their natural habitat, island stopovers and time to explore.

Explore Tikapa Moana, the Hauraki Gulf, on board our purpose-built wildlife viewing vessel, departing from downtown Auckland. Cruise past iconic landmarks including the Harbour Bridge, Devonport and Rangitoto Island, before heading into the open Gulf as our experienced crew search for dolphins, whales and other marine wildlife.

Your journey also includes time ashore at either Rotoroa Island or Man O’ War on Waiheke Island with the chance to explore, swim, or enjoy a relaxed bite or glass of wine.

As we’re exploring a wild, natural environment, no two trips are ever the same.

Explore Rotoroa Island

Rotoroa Island is the perfect island escape! just a short cruise from the city, it showcases the natural beauty and rich history of the Hauraki Gulf. Explore this beautiful island easily via established tracks and coastal paths that take in relics from the island’s past, sculptural installations and expansive views across the Gulf.

Managed by Rotoroa Island Trust the island has been predator free since 2014 and is now home to a number of relocated native birds and wildlife free ranging across the island which you can spot just as easily in the native bush as the open fields and shorelines. Rotoroa’s best kept secret is the sheltered sandy beaches perfect for a swim or picnic after your walk.

Explore Man

17/08/2026

Forget the socks this year!!! Get Dad out on the water instead

A bit of fresh air, a few laughs, some good company and hopefully a day worth talking about afterwards 🌊⛵️

Let’s be real, Dad probably doesn’t need another pair of socks anyway. Get him out on a real Americas cup racing yacht and experience Auckland from the water.

11/08/2026

Our peaceful waterfront 🤍

02/08/2026

🐬 5 dolphin facts most people don't know

There's so much more to these incredible marine mammals than meets the eye 👇

Fact 1: Common dolphins are one of the fastest dolphin species, reaching speeds of up to 60 km/h. 🙉

Fact 2: Every dolphin has its own unique signature whistle, almost like a name. Other dolphins can recognise and even imitate these whistles to call one another

Fact 3: Dolphins can "see" using sound. Through echolocation, they send out clicks that help them detect fish, navigate, and understand the world around them.

Fact 4: Dolphins never fully switch off. One half of their brain sleeps while the other stays awake so they can keep breathing and stay alert. This is called unihemispheric sleep 💤

Fact 5: The young stay close to its mum for several years while it learns how to survive, hunt and navigate.

They're playful, intelligent and perfectly adapted to life in the ocean, and every sighting is a privilege. 💙

Which fact surprised you the most? Let us know below. 👇

Save this for your next dolphin encounter and share it with someone who loves the ocean. 🐬

29/07/2026

Day in the life with Sam heading out to Tiritiri Matangi Island! 🐦

There’s nothing like waking up and knowing you’re off to one of New Zealand’s most special places! A predator-free sanctuary buzzing with rare native birds. From the ferry ride across the Hauraki Gulf to spotting kōkako, takahē and tīeke in the stunning forest… this island is a paradise!

Come experience it for yourself 💚

Book your ferry + guided walk → link in bio

dayinthelife

🌿 One day. One expert. One incredible island.Join Rotoroa Island Manager and professional arborist Dean Oxborough for a ...
22/07/2026

🌿 One day. One expert. One incredible island.

Join Rotoroa Island Manager and professional arborist Dean Oxborough for a special guided tree walk through one of New Zealand's most inspiring conservation success stories.

You'll discover how the island's forest has been restored, hear the stories behind the trees, and finish the day with a free hands-on pruning workshop where you'll learn practical techniques you can use at home.

Your ticket includes:
🌿 Return ferry from Auckland
🌿 Guided tree walk
🌿 Free pruning workshop
🦜 Opportunities to spot rare native wildlife

📅 Saturday 25 July
🎟️ Spaces are limited, so bookings are essential.
Book on Exploregroup.co.nz or linkinbio

Address

Booking Kiosk, Viaduct Harbour, Auckland & Maritime Building, Paihia, Bay Of Islands
Auckland
1010

Telephone

+6493595987

Website

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