New Zealand · CANOES & KAYAKS
19 reviewed
Of the 19 kayaking & canoe trips on this site, these 15 are the ones to book. Prices, running times and the thing that actually separates them sit below, so you can decide in five minutes and get back to the map.
Kayak from Hahei to Cathedral Cove in the Te Whanganui-a-Hei Marine Reserve, with sea caves, marine life, and beach coffee.
“This was an excellent activity - a real memorable highlight of our 3 week trip around NZ. The kayaks were stable and easy to manoeuvre and the guides were knowledgeable and friendly. Highly recommended.”
Kayak Lake Karapiro at dusk, paddle the Pokaiwhenua Stream, and watch thousands of glowworms light up like stars near Rotorua.
“Lofty is a great kayak teacher if you don't have a lot of skill but best of all you get to see tons of glow worms and in a nice night you get to see all the stars.”
Paddle Kaikoura’s marine reserve with a certified guide, spotting seals, seabirds, and possibly dolphins or penguins in 3 hours.
“Our guide, Yasmin, was wonderfully entertaining and informative. She did a great job keeping everyone together and safe out on the water.”
Pedal a kayak along Kaikoura and spot New Zealand fur seals, birds, and dolphins on a small-group 3-hour tour from $83.78.
“Fantastic experience! Best view of seals we've ever seen, knowledgeable guides, and from the contact easy ride with the foot pedals! Highly recommend!”
Small-group kayak on Lake Mapourika from Franz Josef. Guided paddle, kiwi sanctuary and rainforest, gear, transport, and digital photos.
“It was a nice lake kayaking activity, but we could not see the glacier from where we were on the lake.. The Staff were friendly, nice, and informative as well as passionate about the local wildlife and the protection plan to save the Kiwi. It was a rare good weather day.”
Kayak the Kaikoura coast for guaranteed seal viewing, plus chances at dolphins and blue penguins, with a short lesson and great guides.
“This activity is a must-do while you're in Kaikoura. A huge shout to our guide, Holt. He was a saviour. My son felt seasick in the middle of kataking and was unable to kayak anymore. Holt ensured his safety and pulled his katlyak and got my son to the shore safely. It's a huge effort on Holt's part and it is truly appreciated. Thanks you for an amazing experience.”
Paddle Lake Okareka by dusk, enter glow-worm caves in the dark, and catch possible stargazing on a small-group Rotorua night tour.
“Fascinating and educational. The lake was calm and kayaking was easy”
Dart River jet boat plus funyak canoeing in Mt Aspiring National Park from Queenstown, with picnic lunch and all gear included.
“The jet boat was 10/10. It was thrilling but also felt safe. The funyaks were hard work. Not as easy or as relaxing as I expected. At a few points we had to drag the funyaks over rocks for approximately 10 meters. It was a full body workout, Read more”
Glow worm kayak tour in Rotorua with round-trip pickup, small-group paddling in the dark, cave lights, and stargazing.
“The agency gives you rain/wet resistant clothing to wear so no need for your own. It’s quiet and beautiful on the lake. They go out if it is sprinkling as NZ weather changes fast. You go into three caves to see glow worms.”
Evening kayak on Lake McLaren in Tauranga, with glow worms, sunset paddling, included gear, and guided wildlife stories.
“It was a wonderful experience, we had a small group , and our guide was very knowledgeable and helpful. It was a beautiful evening.”
Night kayak in Auckland’s Sea Sparkle waters, where bioluminescent plankton glow with each paddle stroke, plus stars and expert guides.
“A fun and truly unique kayak tour. We had a beautiful, dark sky full of stars and a bay all to ourselves. Legend and C. were informative, friendly, and helpful without interrupting the amazing setting. Thank you!”
Tauranga glowworm kayak at dusk on Lake McLaren, plus Te Reka O Te Whenua tasting, warm gear, and stars over Mangapapa Canyon.
“Incredible , majestic, definitely best experience in New Zealand so far!”
Two-hour night kayak on Auckland’s North Shore in protected waters, guided for first-timers, with bioluminescent plankton.
“Just being on the water was so peaceful. The water was warm, but I didn’t really get wet. It’s beautiful to see the water light up. We were also lucky enough to see glow worms too! This was definitely worth doing. I would do it again.”
Sunset sea kayaking to Rangitoto Island from Auckland, with a crater hike, BBQ dinner, and a night paddle back past city lights.
“Great flexibility with changing weather. Gorgeous views. Loved the opportunity to enjoy a less touristy version of Auckland.”
Paddle Lake Taupo’s clear waters to Maori rock carvings, with volcano views, bird life, snacks, and optional swimming on a 4-hour tour.
“Awesome and knowledgeable guide! Amazing views! So happy we did this! Would do this tour again. 10000% recommend!”
