Top North Island Kayaking Tours

Kayak across the sparkling waters of Waitemata Harbor and reach Rangitoto Island - Auckland’s youngest and largest volcano. A leisurely walk to the bush-clad island’s summit across offers panoramic views of the Auckland city skyline and its many surrounding beaches and bays. Enjoy a healthy and hearty barbecue lunch on the shore of Rangitoto before paddling back across the water to Saint Heliers Bay.

Step into Peter Jackson's Middle-earth with this guided group tour of the Hobbiton™ Movie Set from 'The Lord of the Rings' film trilogy. Learn more about the movies than you ever would by exploring by yourself with the help of your local guide. And with a shuttle service at your disposal, you enjoy a truly seamless Matamata experience.

Head out to the Auckland landmark of Rangitoto Island on this evening kayaking tour. After crossing the Waitemata Harbour to Rangitoto, embark on a leisurely walk to the summit to catch the sunset over Auckland and the Waitakere Ranges. You’ll then paddle back in the dark with the help of your guide, taking in the city lights along the way.

Visit two of New Zealand's must-see attractions on this combo tour from Auckland to the Hobbiton™ Movie Set and Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Peek into Hobbit holes, frolic in the Shire, and get a drink at the Green Dragon Inn on a guided tour of Middle-earth, followed by a café lunch. In the afternoon, explore Māori myths and history on an underground boat ride at Waitomo, surrounded by thousands of glowworms.

Visit the Hobbiton Movie Set on a full-day tour from Auckland that explores New Zealand's "Middle-earth," where "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" films came to life. Travel through a landscape of lush farms, then take a guided tour of the 12-acre (4.8-ha) Hobbiton Movie Set, from hobbit holes to gardens and the Green Dragon Inn. With free time to shop and explore, this tour includes transportation from selected locations in Auckland for your convenience.

The fictional, yet globally famous, village of Hobbiton™ and the Waitomo Glowworm Caves rank among New Zealand’s top attractions. Visit both sites in one day on a small-group tour that includes hotel pickup, a delicious lunch, and personal attention from your guide. Avoid the hassle of self-driving from Auckland and admire scenic views en route. A must-do tour for nature and movie lovers short on time in the North Island.

The only experience of its kind in a capital city! Discover Wellington’s greatest Māori waterfront experience. Jump on board our waka tētē, Poutu or Te Taumata, paddle on our stunning harbour while learning about waka (traditionally carved canoe) culture. Enhancing culture, spirituality, and unity. Our friendly experienced guides will take you through everything you need to know to become kaihoe (paddlers). A unique and enchanting tour that offers insight into Māori culture. This tour is great for team building & togetherness. This experience includes one of our unique T-shirts. Get your whānau, work or sports team together and book one of Wellingtons most unique experiences. You may get wet, so we recommend that you wear appropriate clothing. All passengers and crew wear a personal flotation device on board the waka. We have personal flotation devices in a wide range of sizes and seek to include all tour participants, including children.

Visit the “Lord of the Rings” movie set on this small-group Hobbiton tour from Auckland. At the Hobbiton Movie Set, visit the home of Bilbo Baggins and peer inside other hobbit holes of the Shire—filming site of “The Hobbit” and the “The Lord of the Rings” trilogies, with a break for an included lunch in the Green Dragon Marquee.

This tour combines a guided coastal kayak experience with post-paddle hospitality — the perfect mix of light adventure, connection, and a well-earned drink or meal together. Explore Auckland's scenic North Shore on a guided kayak tour from Waiake Beach to Browns Bay. Paddle past stunning coastal cliffs, rocky reefs, and caves while enjoying panoramic views of Rangitoto Island and the Hauraki Gulf. This easy route is perfect for beginners, with experienced guides ensuring a smooth experience. After your adventure, unwind at Browns Bay with options for swimming, relaxing, or dining at local cafés and bars, including Browns Bay Brewing Company.

For fans of "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" films, visiting the official Hobbiton Movie Set is a truly unforgettable experience. On this tour, enjoy comfortable round-trip transport from Auckland without having to organize a rental vehicle. On arrival, enjoy the opportunity to explore the famous film set, have a drink at The Green Dragon Inn, and see Hobbit Holes, and the Double Arched bridge up close.

In Clevedon, Hallertau Clevedon Brewery crafts divine elixirs. Explore the village's charm, stroll cobbled lanes, and immerse yourself. Visit Waitawa Regional Park, glide on the hallertau clevedon river cruise, connect with nature. Sea kayakers find Waitawa's secrets, unity with earth, water, and sky. As the sun sets, Clevedon Coast's beauty shines. Rugged cliffs, sandy shores, nature's masterpiece adored by all. Return to Hallertau's brewery, where camaraderie blooms. Crafted brews blend Clevedon's vine with amber nectar, creating joy. Under the night sky, hearts and dreams entwine to the universe's melody. Clevedon treasures await your exploration. Let your heart guide you as Clevedon's charm and nature's artistry fuse. Embrace this combined experience with delight. Clevedon's magic leaves an indelible mark.

Explore the Riverhead Tavern Kayak Tour! Nestled by the tranquil Waitemata River, this historic gem is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and water adventurers. Paddle through serene waters, enjoy expert-led kayak tours, and embark on riverside picnics. Delight in waterfront dining, attend water-centric events, or stay in waterfront accommodations. The tavern promotes sustainable practices, preserving the river's beauty. Experience New Zealand's history and nature, crafting enduring memories along the Waitemata River's scenic beauty.

Imagine gliding across a glass-like lake, surrounded by native forest with nothing but the sound of your paddle dipping into the water and bird song. This is the experience of The Hidden Lake kayak tour. We'll take you on a journey to Taupō’s secret sanctuary, a peaceful and untouched place where the beauty of nature takes centre stage. From the intriguing sight of a sunken forest beneath the water to the secluded tranquillity of a hidden canyon, this is more than a tour—it's an escape. The sheltered location means this peaceful and unforgettable adventure can be enjoyed in any weather. Tour Highlights: Paddle over the mysterious sunken forest Explore hidden waterways and the beautiful canyon Enjoy close encounters with native birdlife Perfect for families, beginners, and nature lovers Runs year-round in most weather conditions

Active travelers wanting to experience Rotorua’s unique landscapes will love this private kayaking tour. Walk through Waimangu Volcanic Valley, one of the world’s youngest geothermal systems, to Lake Rotomahana. Paddle along its shores and admire the steaming cliffs, colorful geothermal features, and dramatic geysers, learning about Māori culture along the way. This is a fun way to get some exercise and explore some of Rotorua’s less-visited attractions.

Discover the beauty of Auckland's waterfront on the City Scenes Kayak Tour. Starting from Westhaven Marina, paddle alongside the iconic Sky Tower and vibrant city skyline, reflecting on the tranquil waters. Perfect for cruise passengers or anyone seeking a unique daytime outing, this tour combines urban exploration with paddling serenity. Glide alongside the Auckland Harbour Bridge and navigate through stunning waterfront areas, guided by knowledgeable professionals. Enjoy a light snack as you take in breathtaking views and learn about the city’s rich maritime history. - Duration: 2.5 hours including a 30minute safety session. - Suitable for all fitness levels; no prior kayaking experience required - Includes all kayaking equipment, professional guides, safety gear, and a light snack - Ideal for couples, families, or groups

Gather your family and friends for a unique kayaking adventure along the stunning Waikato River, starting from Epworth camp. Paddle toward the enchanting Pokaiwhenua stream, where the canyon, adorned with native ferns, transforms into a mesmerizing glowworm display as twilight sets in. After savoring some of New Zealand’s finest wines and delicious cheeses by a cozy campfire, glide back downstream, illuminated solely by the soft light of the glowworms. This experience offers a magical alternative to traditional cave visits for viewing glowworms, all under the guidance of our certified and experienced Boatshed guides.

Take a guided canyon kayak tour in the daytime, on the Waikato River. Learn the history of the submerged village and enjoy the serenity of being on the water. Paddle slowly up the Pokaiwhenua Stream and through the canyon carved out by water over many hundreds of years.

Paddle into Paradise – Tiritiri Matangi Awaits! Embark on an epic full-day sea kayak adventure to one of the Hauraki Gulf’s most breathtaking wildlife sanctuaries. Glide across sparkling waters, spot native birdlife in their natural habitat, and land on the shores of Tiritiri Matangi — rich in history, beauty, and untouched coastal wonder. Stunning coastal paddling Rare native birds & wildlife encounters ️ Explore an island sanctuary like no other This is more than a tour — it’s an unforgettable journey into the wild heart of the Gulf. No previous kayaking experience is necessary, but a moderate fitness level is required. Please note this tour isn't wheelchair accessible.

Discover Browns Island's rich history near Auckland. Horses were swum across the harbor by early settlers, while Māori thrived with farming and fishing centuries ago, leaving behind remnants of pā sites. Even more intriguingly, remnants of the Sydney mud cockle were found within volcanic shell beds. In 1909, New Zealand's aviation history took flight as Alex and Claude Barnard launched a homemade flying machine from the island's peak, marking the nation's first aeroplane trials. Browns Island is a volcanic cone from an eruption 25,000 years ago, part of the active Auckland Volcanic Field. Now uninhabited, it's a recreational reserve turned wildlife sanctuary, home to native birds like tūī, pūkeko, silvereye, as well as unique wildlife such as skinks and geckos. For students and researchers, Browns Island offers educational opportunities in volcanology, geology, and environmental conservation, making it an ideal field study destination.

Indulge in the succulent tastes of Waiheke Island on a half-day food and wine tour. A guide picks you up from the wharf and takes you to boutique wineries. Taste wine accompanied by locally produced specialties such as olive oil, oysters, and artisan cheese. Then settle in for a platter lunch at a vineyard restaurant. Linger on Waiheke and take the ferry back to Auckland whenever you like.

Explore the stunning landscapes of New Zealand on a comprehensive 24-day hiking adventure that traverses both the North and South Islands. This journey includes multi-day hikes through eight national parks, from the geothermal wonders of Rotorua to the breathtaking fjords of Milford Sound. Experience a unique Kiwi-style camaraderie by staying in backcountry huts and camping under the stars while tackling diverse terrains. With expert guides sharing local insights, you'll enjoy hearty meals and the joys of outdoor living in a small group setting. - 24-day guided hiking tour from Auckland to Queenstown - Multi-day hikes in 8 National Parks including Tongariro and Aoraki/Mt Cook - Stay in comfortable lodgings and enjoy communal meals - Suitable for reasonably fit outdoor enthusiasts; no prior multi-day hiking experience required

Experience the Hauraki Gulf in a way few visitors ever do. Combining sea kayaking, wildlife encounters, and a guided night walk on predator-free Motuora Island, this unforgettable adventure takes you beyond the crowds and into the heart of New Zealand's natural world. Paddle across sheltered coastal waters at sunset, explore a thriving wildlife sanctuary, and search for the iconic kiwi under the cover of darkness. Along the way, you may encounter dolphins, stingrays, tuatara, giant wētā, geckos, and seabirds while learning about the island's inspiring conservation story and Māori heritage. With stunning scenery, expert local guides, and the rare opportunity to experience a protected island after dark, this is a truly unique Auckland wilderness adventure.

What sets this Waka Ama Adventure apart is the opportunity to connect with our local Māori instructors and hear stories of our ancestors, their traditions, and the history of Waka Ama and voyaging. Guests paddle together as a crew along the coastline, explore a nearby beach, and take a short guided walk on Mauao while learning about the local environment and our values of caring for the land and sea. This combination of teamwork, activity, storytelling, and cultural insight creates a personal, meaningful, and memorable coastal adventure.

What sets this Waka Ama experience apart is the opportunity to connect with local Māori instructors while learning the basics of paddling and teamwork in a Waka Ama (outrigger canoe). Guests enjoy a welcoming, supportive environment, making it an easy and confidence-building way to cruise the ocean — perfect for those who may be nervous on the water. Along the way, instructors share the history of Waka Ama and voyaging, insights into Māori culture, and the values of caring for the land and sea, creating a personal, meaningful, and culturally rich adventure.