KAYAK LOVERS
The water worth the paddle.
The 11 kayaking tours in new zealand travellers paddle most, gathered in one place. Where each route takes you, how long you are on the water, who runs the trip, and what a seat in the boat costs.
Kayak to Cathedral Cove in Te Whanganui-a-Hei Marine Reserve. Small groups, modern gear, hot drinks, and 3 hours of fun.
Most Popular“Shea did a FANTASTIC job of teaching us how to kayak and about the region. I learned so much about history, culture, and got a workout! The photos are amazing. I am so glad I made this happen!”
Kayak Lake Karapiro at dusk on the Pokaiwhenua Stream, then drift through glowworms and stars with Riverside Adventures Waikato. 3.5 hours.
“This was the highlight of our trip. The staff were absolutely fantastic, they could not have been more helpful or welcoming to everyone. We had a fabulous time and would go back in an instance if we could.”
Paddle Kaikoura’s protected coastline in a small group with expert technique tips, fur seals at the Peninsula Seal Colony, and possible dolphins.
“Staff were fantastic, would recommend. Split into a faster group for those more experienced with kayaking and slower smaller groups for people new to it”
Pedal-powered seal kayaking in Kaikoura with a local guide. Hands-free photos, fur seals up close, and small-group calm on the coast.
“A great experience, super chill, friendly and knowledgeable guides. The kayaks were easy to use and very stable. Loved seeing the seals, we also saw dolphins and a lone penguin.”
Small-group kayak on Lake Mapourika near Franz Josef Glacier. All gear and transport included, kiwi estuary views, plus digital photos.
“It was an absolute blast ! Ollie our guide was a total legend , great sense of humour and his knowledge of te reo maori was immaculate !”
Paddle Kaikoura’s rugged coast in a kayak with fur seals in front of you and a shot at dolphins and penguins.
Kayak Rotorua after dark with Taiao Adventures: iSite pickup, beginner-friendly double kayaks, glow-worm caves, and stars if clear.
Dart River jet boat and funyak canoe day from Queenstown with Middle-earth scenery, picnic lunch, and all gear included.
“Worth every cent, a definite bucket list item!! Fun and knowledgeable guides, shout out to Rob, Wolfgang & Jordan for their local knowledge, rafting and jet boat experience. Incredible views, awesome fun, and a delicious lunch to top it all off. Would go again in a heartbeat, great work crew!!”
Night kayak to glow worm caves near Rotorua, with round-trip pickup, provided gear, and star gazing if the sky clears.
“Fantastic night kayak trip to see the glow worms. The guides were knowledgeable, brought a strong professionalism with the right amount of personality and local knowledge.”
Evening kayak on Lake McLaren with guided glow-worm sightings, sunset paddling, snacks, and stargazing from Tauranga’s Bay of Plenty.
“The tour was a lot of fun, and our tour guide was fantastic. The park itself was absolutely stunning—I only wish I had arrived earlier so I could have enjoyed more of it. Highly recommend!”
Paddle Auckland’s Sea Sparkle at night. Guided kayak tour with science, starlit skies, and glowing blue plankton under moonlit waters.
Every paddle worth taking, place by place.
