Tauranga, New Zealand
Tours Delivered,
Since Nov 16, 2022
34.0
Hours, Avg. response time
Guide #43271
Gidday, My name is Toby, I am a young old New Zealander. I grew up on an isolated sheep farm in the middle of our unique country, that is unlike any other in the world. My passions are: *meeting people from other countries/cultures that have diverse views setting us up for robust conversations lol. *paddling my outrigger canoe on the seas and lakes that are just a stones throw from where I reside. * travelling to new and exciting destinations, or to ones that I have discovered before that I really like. In July I spent a month in California (and old faithful destination of mine) and the UK, a brand new and totally surprising destination in a positive way * I am passionate about our indigenous Maori culture and it's roots (Hawaiiki nui), the dynamic geology of this young piece of earth that us Kiwis live upon, the history of recent colonisation, mainly by the English and Scottish, and New Zealand in the present day. * I like to follow and support the lives and achievements of my two grown sons, both of whom have significant Maori blood coursing through their veins. *I am knowledgable about our economy, flora and fauna and conservation efforts with regards to these, our population diversity (mind you there is only 5 million of us in an area just tad bigger than the UK). I love to share my knowledge in an entertaining manner to visitors to New Zealand from overseas countries, as well as of course New Zealanders. Our Port of Tauranga, where cruise ships where once again will be visiting later this year is just 60 minutes drive from the iconic tourist destination of Rotorua, famous in NZ for Geothermal activity (Geysers, mudpools, hot mineral baths), beautiful lakes and Native Forests and the centre for Maori cultural performances. I live just 500 m from the terminal for the cruise ships making it easy for me to retrieve you and your family, partner and/or friends once you have disembarked. I am relatively young compared to many Tour operators bringing more energy and vibrancy (humour??) to the role of a tour guide. Undergraduate in Horticulture and Science. Current affairs nut. Coastal Yachtmasters ticket. Avid student of Polynesian/Maori history and legends P endorsement (i.e. I am licensed by the NZ Govt authority to drive vehicles that carry paying passengers.) Port of Tauranga induction for all zones of the Port. Extremely skilled waterman with lifesaving certificates. There are no restrictions on the New Zealand experiences that I can be a guide for you, except the time that we have available.
Tauranga

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32 reviews
Toby took us through the beautiful countryside to see dairy and sheep farms as well as kiwi fruit orchards. We stopped at a traditional NZ pub for toasties and a pint. We also added on a Hobbitton tour which turned out to be the highlight. A gorgeous sunset lookout capped off the tour. THANKS Toby!
Toby was great! He made sure our one day in Rotorua was perfect! Highly recommend!
We had an outstanding day with Toby! Learning about the history and culture while being thoroughly entertained (although I never quite got the hang of the Māori language despite his great teaching). We would highly recommend Toby for anyone looking to explore Tauranga or Rotorua. Be sure to ask about the steak pies 😉

Replied from Toby L.
Hi Judy, Pleasure to host my smart new Canadian acquaintances and show off the best parts of the Rotorua region to you. Hoping the rest of your cruise around NZ met your expectations too
Toby has definitely figured out the best way to see the beautiful lakes of Rotorua and the geothermal Māori village. We saw a most popular region while avoiding the crowds and tour buses. We enjoyed beautiful off the beaten track short hikes into the forest and to glimpse the best views of the area. You’ll love your day with Toby as your guide!