WHERE TO PADDLE · LAKE KAYAK TOURS IN NEW ZEALAND
This is the shortlist you would send a friend: 9 lake kayak tours in New Zealand worth the money, each with its price, its traveller verdict and the one thing to know before you commit.
Paddle Lake Karapiro at dusk, then drift through the Pokaiwhenua Stream beneath thousands of glowworms and stars.
“To see the glowworms, I tried the Waitomo tour, with the caves. I much preferred seeing them through this kayak tour. We go up the river before nightfall, on the way, we meet wild geese and the guide tells us a little about the history of the Read more”
Kayak Lake Mapourika from Franz Josef for glacier views, rainforest, kiwi sanctuary stories, warm gear, photos, and excellent value.
“A great afternoon spent on the lake ( like a mirror ) spotting birds and learning about the flora and fauna from our friendly and knowledgable guide Ollie . Thank you we thoroughly enjoyed it !”
Review of the Lake Mapourika kayak and Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary hike, with practical tips on price, fitness, guides, weather, and value.
“This event was continued despite 14 inches of rain in 24 hours. This was a deluge. Roads were flooded, closed, with rick slides. There was lightening and thunder present. I called to say that I did not feel it was safe to continue the lake walk anRead more”
Kayak across Lake Taupo to the Maori Rock Carvings, with guides, snacks, swimming, clear water, and mountain views.
“I have always wanted to do this and it didn’t disappoint.A good workout with a great guide, hot chocolate and muffins and the carvings are impressive .We were able to get up close.”
Paddle Lake Rotoiti at sunset, soak in hot springs, spot glowworms, enjoy a BBQ, and return to Rotorua with gear and transport included.
“We had an amazing day kayaking to the hot pools, delicious dinner, glow worm caves, and night kayaking under the stars. Highly recommend!”
Paddle Lake Karapiro at dusk, explore the Pokaiwhenua canyon, and drift beneath glowworms on this memorable 210-minute kayak tour.
“Our trip got off to a slow start awaiting group members to arrive. But once we set off, it was a lovely experience kayaking along the river .The guides provided interesting information and tasty snacks as we waited on the banks for dusk , when we set off again to float through the canyon to see the glow worms. This was an amazing sight . However as 60 + travellers we found kayaking in complete darkness, especially once out in the open to paddle back to base, was rather disorientating. It really was pitch black . But we did all arrive back safely and our guides were very helpful in…”
Paddle quiet Moke Lake near Queenstown by kayak or SUP, with mountain views, small groups, local snacks, and optional transport.
“Challenging paddling into the wind, but reasonably protected from the surrounding mountains. It was great that people could go at their own pace, so it suited beginners and more experienced paddlers.”
Review of Tauranga’s 3-hour Lake McLaren kayak tour, with calm water, birdlife, Mangapapa Canyon, pricing, tips, and booking advice.
“Absolutely amazing, Tom was a great tour guide and strongly recommended…”
Kayak Lake Rotoiti, visit a glowworm cave, hear Māori legends, and relax in Manupirua Thermal Hot Pools for $101.
“Une matinée formidable en famille! Les berges du lac sont magnifiques ! Nous avons beaucoup apprécié également nous baigner dans les piscines d’eau chaudes et découvrir la grottes secrète et ses vers luisants. Inoubliable.”
Pick a coast, a cave, a river or a tunnel.
