Top North Island Kayaking Tours

Certain waters near Auckland offer a hidden attraction to delight unsuspecting travelers. On this guided kayak tour, paddle out off the shore of Auckland at night and watch as the waves start to light up as you glide through the waters, lit up by bioluminescent plankton which swirl with blue light when disturbed. This easy, 2-hour tour is not recommended for travelers with back or heart problems or other serious medical conditions.

Embark on a thrilling Blackwater Rafting adventure in Ruakuri Cave. Choose between two exhilarating tours: the original Black Labyrinth, where you'll float under glowworms and jump off waterfalls, or the longer Black Abyss, which includes abseiling, ziplining, and cave exploration. Both experiences offer unforgettable encounters with the natural beauty of the cave and take you to places impossible to reach on your own.

Enjoy one of New Zealand’s original tourist attractions: a tour of the magnificent Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Your guide—who may be descended from the Māori chief who first discovered the caves—leads you underground and tells you about the cultural significance of this site. Hop into a boat and glide on an underground river, enjoying the light show put on by millions of tiny bioluminescent insects hanging above.

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.

Get out of Auckland for the night, away from the harsh neon lights, and experience a natural light party on this kayaking adventure. Paddle along the northern coast of Auckland and witness the bioluminescent plankton that live in the ocean. Watch as it lights up the beach at night, with only the sounds of the Hauraki Gulf and the native birds in the background.

A diverse range of wildlife calls the calm blue waters of Lake Rotoiti—near Rotorua—home, including many species of local birds. Listen to the enchanting birdsong as you paddle across the lake on this half-day evening kayak tour. Then, set out towards the nearby glowworm cave to see bioluminescent light speckle the dark cave walls before a BBQ dinner at the Manupirua Hot Pools.

Get up close to New Zealand’s natural beauty on this scenic Lake McLaren tour by kayak or canoe. Discover wildlife native to the region and gain insight into the ecosystem from your guide—something you'd miss on your own. Gaze up at sheer cliff faces towering overhead and enjoy panoramic views over the dense, sun-dappled bush. Paddle along the lakeshore and through Mangapapa Canyon. Hotel transfers are included for added convenience.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Set off on a captivating 4-hour sea kayaking journey from Auckland’s Westhaven Marina to the historic Chelsea Sugar Factory, New Zealand’s only sugar refinery since 1884. Paddle across the sparkling Waitematā Harbour as you glide beneath the iconic Auckland Harbour Bridge, soaking in panoramic views of the city skyline. Upon arrival, embark on an engaging mini tour to uncover the fascinating history and modern operations of this renowned food producer, including a visit to the impressive 'sugar mountain.' After your tour, enjoy a relaxing break at the onsite café or bring your own lunch to savor in the picturesque surroundings before paddling back to Westhaven Marina for a fulfilling conclusion to your day.

Adventurous travelers will love this glowworm-spotting tour with a difference. As the sun gets lower in the sky, paddle in a kayak on Lake Karapiro and along the Pokaiwhenua Stream. You’ll see beautiful native plants and bird life, and rock formations that have been naturally carved over centuries. Once the light disappears, you’ll see thousands of glowworms lighting your way. This tour is a fun way to experience some of New Zealand’s best natural attractions.

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.

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.

Kayak to the iconic Whenuakura Island, also known as Donut Island, on this guided adventure. Paddle through crystal-clear waters as you explore the stunning lagoon and learn about the unique wildlife sanctuary. With expert guides leading the way, discover hidden bays and breathtaking natural formations. This eco-friendly experience ensures you connect with nature while creating unforgettable memories with small group sizes. - 2-hour guided kayaking tour suitable for all skill levels - Explore Whenuakura Island’s stunning lagoon and wildlife - Small private groups for a personalized experience - Safety gear provided, including life jackets and wetsuits if needed

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 nature is at its best on a 40-minute Bay of Islands cruise followed by a kayak excursion. Paddle past mangrove forests to a wondrous waterfall, with the option to depart in the morning, afternoon or at sunset. If you’d like, opt for a paddleboard instead. You’ll view birdlife and learn the cultural history of the Maori people with commentary by a knowledgeable guide.