Frequently Asked Questions
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Terra & Tide offer rewarding and immersive tour experiences across the Auckland & Northland regions of Aotearoa / New Zealand. Find out more about your tour options and contact us if you can't find an answer to your question.
How large are your groups?
How large are your groups?
Our tours cater for a wide range of group sizes, from couples and small private groups to corporate, conference and incentive groups of up to 100 guests.
Our shared walking and sailing experiences are kept small and intimate, typically accommodating 4–12 guests, while private tours generally cater for 2–12 guests. For larger groups, we create bespoke itineraries, with flexible transport options and tailored activities to ensure a seamless, personalised experience.
Our shared walking and sailing experiences are kept small and intimate, typically accommodating 4–12 guests, while private tours generally cater for 2–12 guests. For larger groups, we create bespoke itineraries, with flexible transport options and tailored activities to ensure a seamless, personalised experience.
Do you offer tours for families?
Do you offer tours for families?
Absolutely! We welcome families and multi-generational groups, with a range of experiences designed to bring everyone together through nature, discovery and adventure.
Our family-friendly options include personalised Auckland tours, Matakana Coast adventures, Bay of Islands and Northland explorations, and guided walks and sailing experiences around Waiheke Island and the Hauraki Gulf.
Our private tours are particularly well suited to families, allowing our knowledgeable local guides to tailor the activities, itinerary and pace to suit different ages, interests and abilities.
Get in touch with our friendly team and we'll help create an unforgettable family adventure.
Our family-friendly options include personalised Auckland tours, Matakana Coast adventures, Bay of Islands and Northland explorations, and guided walks and sailing experiences around Waiheke Island and the Hauraki Gulf.
Our private tours are particularly well suited to families, allowing our knowledgeable local guides to tailor the activities, itinerary and pace to suit different ages, interests and abilities.
Get in touch with our friendly team and we'll help create an unforgettable family adventure.
Are Terra & Tide’s experiences group tours, private tours, or both?
Are Terra & Tide’s experiences group tours, private tours, or both?
We offer both shared and private experiences. Our shared tours are kept small and intimate, allowing for a more personal experience, while our private tours offer the flexibility to tailor itineraries to your interests, preferences and pace.
We also specialise in bespoke experiences for larger groups, including corporate events, conferences, incentive groups and special celebrations, accommodating up to 100 guests.
We also specialise in bespoke experiences for larger groups, including corporate events, conferences, incentive groups and special celebrations, accommodating up to 100 guests.
Do you offer corporate experiences?
Do you offer corporate experiences?
Absolutely! We specialise in creating premium, bespoke experiences for corporate groups, conferences, incentive programmes, team building and special events across Auckland, Waiheke Island, the Hauraki Gulf, Matakana and Northland.
From exclusive sailing adventures, guided nature walks and immersive Māori cultural experiences to exceptional food and wine, art and conservation activities, we create memorable experiences that bring people together.
Our expert guides, strong regional partnerships and luxury transport ensure a seamless, personalised experience for groups of up to 100 guests.
Discover more in our Corporate, Conference and Incentive Experiences brochure or contact our friendly team to discuss your requirements.
From exclusive sailing adventures, guided nature walks and immersive Māori cultural experiences to exceptional food and wine, art and conservation activities, we create memorable experiences that bring people together.
Our expert guides, strong regional partnerships and luxury transport ensure a seamless, personalised experience for groups of up to 100 guests.
Discover more in our Corporate, Conference and Incentive Experiences brochure or contact our friendly team to discuss your requirements.
Do you offer private tours?
Do you offer private tours?
Yes. We specialise in private, customised experiences designed around your interests, preferences and pace. From guided walks and sailing adventures to food and wine, cultural and nature-based experiences, our expert local guides create memorable journeys tailored just for you.
We also offer bespoke itineraries for families, special celebrations, corporate and incentive groups.
We also offer bespoke itineraries for families, special celebrations, corporate and incentive groups.
Where do your tours begin?
Where do your tours begin?
Our tours depart from various locations across Auckland, Waiheke Island, Matakana and Northland, depending on your chosen experience.
Waiheke Island tours typically begin at Matiatia Wharf, where we meet guests arriving by ferry from Auckland. For our Auckland, Matakana and Northland experiences, we generally offer convenient pick-ups from your accommodation or an agreed meeting point.
Private tours offer greater flexibility, with pick-up locations tailored to your itinerary wherever possible.
Full meeting point and departure details are provided when you book, or our friendly team can help you plan your journey.
Waiheke Island tours typically begin at Matiatia Wharf, where we meet guests arriving by ferry from Auckland. For our Auckland, Matakana and Northland experiences, we generally offer convenient pick-ups from your accommodation or an agreed meeting point.
Private tours offer greater flexibility, with pick-up locations tailored to your itinerary wherever possible.
Full meeting point and departure details are provided when you book, or our friendly team can help you plan your journey.
What is the difference between a private tour and a normal tour?
What is the difference between a private tour and a normal tour?
Our shared tours are small-group experiences where you join other like-minded travellers on a carefully curated itinerary, led by one of our expert local guides.
Private tours offer a more personalised experience, with a dedicated guide and the flexibility to tailor the itinerary to your interests, preferences and pace. Whether you're looking for a special occasion or simply a more exclusive experience, our private tours allow you to explore your chosen destination your way.
Private tours offer a more personalised experience, with a dedicated guide and the flexibility to tailor the itinerary to your interests, preferences and pace. Whether you're looking for a special occasion or simply a more exclusive experience, our private tours allow you to explore your chosen destination your way.
Do you provide food on tours?
Do you provide food on tours?
Yes! Many of our tours include delicious locally sourced food, from gourmet picnic lunches and relaxed café dining to exceptional vineyard and restaurant experiences showcasing the flavours of our regions.
Tours with lunch included feature our Waiheke guided day walks, food and wine tours, sailing adventures, personalised touring experiences, Auckland Signature and Food & Wine Tours, Waitākere Explorer, and our Matakana and Northland Explorer tours.
Tours without a full meal included generally include our shorter experiences, such as birdwatching, stargazing, forest bathing and cultural tours. Some include light refreshments or snacks, while others offer optional dining experiences or lunch upgrades.
Each tour page clearly outlines what's included. If you have any dietary requirements, please let us know when booking and we'll do our best to accommodate them.
Tours with lunch included feature our Waiheke guided day walks, food and wine tours, sailing adventures, personalised touring experiences, Auckland Signature and Food & Wine Tours, Waitākere Explorer, and our Matakana and Northland Explorer tours.
Tours without a full meal included generally include our shorter experiences, such as birdwatching, stargazing, forest bathing and cultural tours. Some include light refreshments or snacks, while others offer optional dining experiences or lunch upgrades.
Each tour page clearly outlines what's included. If you have any dietary requirements, please let us know when booking and we'll do our best to accommodate them.
What is the best way to book your tours?
What is the best way to book your tours?
The easiest way to book is through our website at www.terraandtide.co.nz. Simply explore our range of experiences, select your preferred tour and click ‘Book Now’ on the tour page to make your booking through our secure online booking system.
For private, customised experiences or group bookings, our friendly team is happy to assist. Contact us at [email protected] or +64 21 669 722, and we’ll help create an unforgettable experience tailored to your needs.
For private, customised experiences or group bookings, our friendly team is happy to assist. Contact us at [email protected] or +64 21 669 722, and we’ll help create an unforgettable experience tailored to your needs.
What sort of transport do you offer?
What sort of transport do you offer?
We offer comfortable, premium transport in our fleet of modern luxury Mercedes vehicles, including electric and low-emission vans, reflecting our commitment to more sustainable travel.
Our vehicles cater for couples, families and private groups, through to larger corporate and incentive groups of up to 100 guests, with additional transport arranged as required.
For something extra special, we can also arrange exclusive transfers by helicopter, water taxi, private yacht or plane.
Accommodation pick-ups and private transfers are available across Auckland, Waiheke Island, Matakana and Northland, depending on your chosen experience. Ferry travel to Waiheke Island is generally booked separately, although we're happy to assist with arrangements.
Our vehicles cater for couples, families and private groups, through to larger corporate and incentive groups of up to 100 guests, with additional transport arranged as required.
For something extra special, we can also arrange exclusive transfers by helicopter, water taxi, private yacht or plane.
Accommodation pick-ups and private transfers are available across Auckland, Waiheke Island, Matakana and Northland, depending on your chosen experience. Ferry travel to Waiheke Island is generally booked separately, although we're happy to assist with arrangements.
What are your terms and conditions for bookings?
What are your terms and conditions for bookings?
Our cancellation policy applies to all tours, including private groups:
Cancellation fees apply to individuals and groups, and changes in group numbers may require a revised quote.
For further information, please refer to our full booking terms and conditions or contact our friendly team at [email protected].
- 8–30 days before your tour: A 10% cancellation fee applies.
- 48 hours–7 days before your tour: A 50% cancellation fee applies, unless you rebook (subject to availability).
- Within 48 hours or no-shows: No refund is available, although rebooking may be offered depending on circumstances and availability.
Cancellation fees apply to individuals and groups, and changes in group numbers may require a revised quote.
For further information, please refer to our full booking terms and conditions or contact our friendly team at [email protected].
How many guests are on your tours?
How many guests are on your tours?
Group sizes vary depending on the tour or experience. Our shared walking and sailing adventures are kept small and intimate, while most private tours cater for couples, families and small groups, typically from 2–12 guests.
We also specialise in customised experiences for larger groups, including corporate events, conferences and incentive programmes, accommodating up to 100 guests.
Please check the individual tour pages for specific group sizes, or contact our friendly team to discuss your requirements.
We also specialise in customised experiences for larger groups, including corporate events, conferences and incentive programmes, accommodating up to 100 guests.
Please check the individual tour pages for specific group sizes, or contact our friendly team to discuss your requirements.
Do you have any special offers at the moment?
Do you have any special offers at the moment?
We occasionally offer seasonal promotions and special experiences throughout the year. For the latest offers, we recommend checking our website or getting in touch with our friendly team at [email protected].
We're always happy to help you find the perfect experience for your next adventure.
We're always happy to help you find the perfect experience for your next adventure.
Do you offer Gift Cards?
Do you offer Gift Cards?
Yes! Give the gift of an unforgettable experience with a Terra & Tide Gift Card. From guided walks and sailing adventures to food and wine, art and nature-based experiences, our gift cards are a wonderful way to treat someone special.
Simply visit our Gift Cards page to explore the options and purchase online. For a more personalised gift, our friendly team is happy to help.
Simply visit our Gift Cards page to explore the options and purchase online. For a more personalised gift, our friendly team is happy to help.
Can tour itineraries be customised?
Can tour itineraries be customised?
Absolutely! We specialise in creating personalised experiences tailored to your interests, preferences and pace. Whether you'd like to explore hidden gems, discover local art and culture, enjoy exceptional food and wine, or immerse yourself in nature, our knowledgeable expert guides can help bring your ideal itinerary to life.
We also create bespoke experiences for families, private groups, special celebrations and corporate events. Simply get in touch with our friendly team to discuss your ideas.
We also create bespoke experiences for families, private groups, special celebrations and corporate events. Simply get in touch with our friendly team to discuss your ideas.
When do you offer your tours?
When do you offer your tours?
We offer tours and experiences year-round, with departures available daily except on 25, 26 and 31 December and 1 January.
Our multi-day tours are unavailable from 20 December to 31 January. Shared tours are subject to minimum numbers, while private tours offer greater flexibility with departure times.
Visit our individual tour pages to check availability or contact our friendly team to plan your experience.
Our multi-day tours are unavailable from 20 December to 31 January. Shared tours are subject to minimum numbers, while private tours offer greater flexibility with departure times.
Visit our individual tour pages to check availability or contact our friendly team to plan your experience.
What certifications and awards has your business won?
What certifications and awards has your business won?
Terra & Tide is proud to hold Qualmark Gold accreditation, recognising our commitment to exceptional visitor experiences, sustainability and operational excellence.
We were also honoured to receive the Tātaki Auckland Unlimited Tourism Excellence Award (Micro Business) at the 2024 New Zealand Tourism Awards.
As a regenerative tourism operator with certified Zero Carbon Business Operations, we're committed to protecting our natural environment and making a positive contribution to the communities and places we call home.
We were also honoured to receive the Tātaki Auckland Unlimited Tourism Excellence Award (Micro Business) at the 2024 New Zealand Tourism Awards.
As a regenerative tourism operator with certified Zero Carbon Business Operations, we're committed to protecting our natural environment and making a positive contribution to the communities and places we call home.
Can we read customer reviews of your tours and experiences?
Can we read customer reviews of your tours and experiences?
Absolutely! We're proud of the wonderful feedback we receive from our guests. You can read their experiences and reviews on Tripadvisor, Google, Facebook or on our website.
Our guests often highlight the passion and knowledge of our local guides, personalised service and memorable connections with nature, culture and place.
Our guests often highlight the passion and knowledge of our local guides, personalised service and memorable connections with nature, culture and place.
What type of tour operator is Terra & Tide?
What type of tour operator is Terra & Tide?
Terra & Tide is an award-winning tourism business offering a unique collection of customisable private and small-group touring experiences across Auckland, Waiheke Island, the Hauraki Gulf, Matakana Coast and Northland.
Our tours are designed to showcase the natural wonders of the region, from spectacular walking and nature to Māori culture and history, world-class art encounters, and mouthwatering food and wine. We offer single and multi-day experiences for independent, corporate, group and incentive clients.
Our tours are designed to showcase the natural wonders of the region, from spectacular walking and nature to Māori culture and history, world-class art encounters, and mouthwatering food and wine. We offer single and multi-day experiences for independent, corporate, group and incentive clients.
How do you minimise your tours’ environmental impact?
How do you minimise your tours’ environmental impact?
At Terra & Tide, caring for our environment is at the heart of everything we do. As a regenerative tourism operator, we're committed to minimising our footprint while making a positive contribution to the places we call home.
We operate a fleet of luxury electric and low-emission vehicles, minimise waste and single-use plastics, and maintain a certified carbon-positive footprint. We also actively support local conservation initiatives, including predator control, native tree planting and wetland restoration.
Through our experiences, we aim to inspire guests to connect more deeply with nature and become part of protecting it for future generations.
Learn more about Our Commitment to the Environment.
We operate a fleet of luxury electric and low-emission vehicles, minimise waste and single-use plastics, and maintain a certified carbon-positive footprint. We also actively support local conservation initiatives, including predator control, native tree planting and wetland restoration.
Through our experiences, we aim to inspire guests to connect more deeply with nature and become part of protecting it for future generations.
Learn more about Our Commitment to the Environment.
What types of tours & experiences do you offer?
What types of tours & experiences do you offer?
Terra & Tide specialises in premium, customised touring, walking, sailing and wellbeing experiences across Auckland, Waiheke Island, the Hauraki Gulf, Matakana and Northland.
Our diverse portfolio includes nature and wildlife adventures, guided walks, exclusive sailing, Māori cultural and heritage experiences, food and wine tours, art, conservation, and bespoke luxury touring.
Led by our passionate, knowledgeable expert guides, our experiences bring the stories, landscapes and people of each destination to life. From intimate private journeys to tailored corporate and incentive group experiences, we create authentic, immersive adventures that connect guests more deeply with nature, culture and place, while making a positive contribution to the communities and environments we visit.
Our diverse portfolio includes nature and wildlife adventures, guided walks, exclusive sailing, Māori cultural and heritage experiences, food and wine tours, art, conservation, and bespoke luxury touring.
Led by our passionate, knowledgeable expert guides, our experiences bring the stories, landscapes and people of each destination to life. From intimate private journeys to tailored corporate and incentive group experiences, we create authentic, immersive adventures that connect guests more deeply with nature, culture and place, while making a positive contribution to the communities and environments we visit.
Who are your guides?
Who are your guides?
Our guides are passionate, knowledgeable, expert locals who love sharing the stories, landscapes and hidden gems of the places they call home.
With expertise spanning native flora and fauna, conservation, Māori culture and heritage, art, food and wine, our friendly guides bring each destination to life through authentic storytelling, local insights and personalised experiences.
They're dedicated to helping you connect more deeply with nature, culture and place, making every adventure truly memorable.
Get to know the people behind your experience on our Meet Our Guides page.
With expertise spanning native flora and fauna, conservation, Māori culture and heritage, art, food and wine, our friendly guides bring each destination to life through authentic storytelling, local insights and personalised experiences.
They're dedicated to helping you connect more deeply with nature, culture and place, making every adventure truly memorable.
Get to know the people behind your experience on our Meet Our Guides page.
What destinations do you offer?
What destinations do you offer?
We offer tours and experiences across Auckland, Matakana, Waiheke & the Hauraki Gulf and Northland, New Zealand. For further information on regional offerings, please see our:
Do you offer multi-day tours & experiences?
Do you offer multi-day tours & experiences?
Yes! We offer a range of multi-day walking, sailing and touring adventures, giving you more time to explore and connect with the spectacular landscapes, nature and culture of our regions.
On Waiheke Island, our Best of Waiheke and Te Ara Hura walking experiences offer guided and self-guided options. We also offer exclusive multi-day sailing charters exploring the beautiful Hauraki Gulf.
Further north, our two-day Matakana and Northland Explorer showcases stunning coastlines, ancient forests, local culture and hidden gems.
For something truly unique, we can create a bespoke multi-day itinerary tailored to your interests, preferences and pace.
On Waiheke Island, our Best of Waiheke and Te Ara Hura walking experiences offer guided and self-guided options. We also offer exclusive multi-day sailing charters exploring the beautiful Hauraki Gulf.
Further north, our two-day Matakana and Northland Explorer showcases stunning coastlines, ancient forests, local culture and hidden gems.
For something truly unique, we can create a bespoke multi-day itinerary tailored to your interests, preferences and pace.
Who are your tours for?
Who are your tours for?
Our experiences are designed for curious travellers who value authentic, meaningful connections with nature, culture and place. We welcome couples, families, small groups, nature lovers, soft adventure seekers and those with a passion for food, wine, art and culture.
From private luxury experiences and special celebrations to corporate, incentive and conference groups, we offer both shared and customised tours to suit a range of interests, ages and abilities.
From private luxury experiences and special celebrations to corporate, incentive and conference groups, we offer both shared and customised tours to suit a range of interests, ages and abilities.
What sort of walking/hiking tours do you offer?
What sort of walking/hiking tours do you offer?
We offer a range of guided day walks and multi-day hiking adventures, designed to suit different interests, fitness levels and abilities.
Our Waiheke Island day walks explore spectacular coastlines, native forests, secluded beaches and vineyards, while our multi-day experiences, including the Best of Waiheke and Te Ara Hura, offer guided and self-guided options for those wanting to explore more deeply.
Walking is also an integral part of many of our personalised tours across Auckland, Matakana and Northland, allowing guests to experience nature, wildlife and local history at their own pace.
Discover more about Walking on Waiheke Island and Why Walk With Us.
Our Waiheke Island day walks explore spectacular coastlines, native forests, secluded beaches and vineyards, while our multi-day experiences, including the Best of Waiheke and Te Ara Hura, offer guided and self-guided options for those wanting to explore more deeply.
Walking is also an integral part of many of our personalised tours across Auckland, Matakana and Northland, allowing guests to experience nature, wildlife and local history at their own pace.
Discover more about Walking on Waiheke Island and Why Walk With Us.
Can I pay cash on the day?
Can I pay cash on the day?
As we have a limited number of places available each day, bookings must be paid for in advance.
Do we need to book in advance?
Do we need to book in advance?
Our walking tours are small, personal and very popular. We strongly recommend you book early to avoid disappointment.
What time do we catch the ferry to Waiheke island?
What time do we catch the ferry to Waiheke island?
Please catch the 9am Fullers ferry from Auckland.
Is lunch included?
Is lunch included?
Lunch is included with most of our walks. Please refer to the green information panel on each walk’s webpage. If lunch is not included, we are happy to recommend a cafe or restaurant and book on your behalf, either in advance or on the day.
What if it’s raining?
What if it’s raining?
We will walk unless the weather is extreme. In the event of extreme weather (highly unlikely) we will cancel and happily refund. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you are concerned.
Do you offer child rates?
Do you offer child rates?
We offer a rate of 75% per child (up to age 14) on all shared and private walks and touring product. Our walks are not suitable for children under 8. NZ licensing laws prohibit drinking alcohol under the age of 18.
How fit do I need to be?
How fit do I need to be?
You need to be able to walk for 2.5 to 3.5 hours.
Are your tours wheelchair accessible?
Are your tours wheelchair accessible?
Our tours are not wheelchair accessible. Please contact us to discuss options for guests with limited mobility.
What do I need to bring?
What do I need to bring?
Bring a daypack, sun glasses, sunscreen, hat and a rain jacket. Please wear good walking shoes.
What is your cancellation policy?
What is your cancellation policy?
Between 8 and 30 days before the tour a 10% fee is deducted. Between 48 hours and 7 days before the tour a 50% fee is deducted unless you rebook (subject to availability). Within 48 hours, or for a no-show, there is no refund, though rebooking may be offered depending on circumstances and availability.
What languages are tours conducted in?
What languages are tours conducted in?
Tours are generally conducted in English, but we can accommodate Spanish, French and German on request. Please enquire about other languages.
Please contact us if you have any queries at all. We are happy to help.
Still have a question?
We’re happy to help
+64 21 669 722
[email protected]
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