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Kayaking and canoeing

  • Cathedral Cove
    Coromandel
    Cathedral Cove, Coromandel

    By Graeme Murray

  • Go kayaking in Milford Sound
    Fiordland
    Milford Sound, Fiordland

    By Alistair Guthrie

  • Take a guided canoe journey of Whanganui River.
    Whanganui
    Whanganui River, Whanganui

    By Visit Whanganui

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Feel the calm within as you glide through clear waters, past golden beaches and towering cliffs.

Kayaking is one of the best ways to explore New Zealand's coastline and inland waterways, all year round. Paddle with dolphins or paddle around a marine reserve and jump in for a snorkel. You can even paddle a Māori waka. You’ll find plenty of places to hire kayaks and equipment. Plus, just as many guided tours to make your time on the water as safe and sociable as possible. Before you hit the water, it’s a good idea to check Maritime New Zealand(opens in new window) for information on everything from essential safety gear to regional bylaws.

Popular kayaking spots

Lake Mapourika - a scenic gem on the wild west coast.
West Coast
Lake Mapourika - a scenic gem on the wild west coast., West Coast

By Glacier country kayaks

New Zealand is home to loads of great kayaking areas either side of the Cook Strait.

  • Lake Mapourika(opens in new window) – Located within a UNESCO World Heritage site, Lake Mapourika’s calm waters mirror the snow-capped peaks and native rainforest that surround it. Great for scouting out hidden creeks and spotting native birdlife.
  • Abel Tasman National Park – famous for its golden beaches, turquoise waters, and seals. Best for sea kayaking in the South Island, overnight trips and beach camping.
  • Milford Sound – paddle through dramatic fjords surrounded by towering cliffs and waterfalls. Best for experienced paddlers and guided trips.
  • Cathedral Cove – explore sea caves and rock formations in the Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve. Best for half-day coastal adventures.
  • Lake Taupō – kayak to Māori rock carvings while enjoying views of Tongariro National Park. Best for flat-water kayaking.
  • Bay of Islands – a tropical marine paradise with clear waters, dolphins, and sea caves. Best for sea kayaking in the North Island and island hopping.
  • Whanganui River – a historic and scenic multi-day kayaking route through remote native bush. Best for a peaceful, immersive experience.
  • Auckland / Hauraki Gulf – popular kayaking routes include Motukorea / Brown's Island, Rangitoto Island, Waiheke Island’s coastline – perfect for scenic tours and extended adventures.

Wildlife and scenery

Dolphin spotting while kayaking
Christchurch - Canterbury
Dolphin spotting while kayaking, Christchurch - Canterbury

By Kaikōura Kayaks

Out on the water you can expect incredible wildlife encounters and breathtaking scenery. Depending on where you paddle, you might see:

  • Marine life – seals, dolphins, penguins, and even albatross in coastal areas like Kaikōura and Otago Peninsula.
  • Birdlife – rare species such as the white-flippered penguin and various seabirds in places like Akaroa.
  • Scenic landscapes – towering cliffs, hidden sea caves, and pristine beaches in locations like Cathedral Cove and Milford Sound.
  • Wetlands and lagoons – such as Ōkārito Lagoon, home to many bird species and stunning mountain views.

Kayaking conditions

Kayaking adventures in the Coromandel
Coromandel
Kayaking, Coromandel

By Kari Bodnarchuk

New Zealand's weather can change quickly, so always check the marine forecast(opens in new window) before you go. Generally speaking, west coast waters can be rougher and less predictable than those in the east, and mornings are usually calmer than afternoons.

  • Summer (December to February) is the best season for kayaking. The seas are calmer, the weather is warmer (20-30 °C) and there are more daylight hours.
  • Autumn (March to May) is next best. There are fewer people out on the water, temperatures are still warm (typically 15-25 °C), and conditions generally calm.
  • Winter (June to August) while the weather might be cooler (10-15 °C), winter offers unique advantages like stunning snow-capped mountain backdrops and a greater chance of seeing wildlife like whales and seals in places like Kaikōura.
  • Spring is unpredictable. Average daytime temperatures range from 16-19 °C and days can be windy. Take extra layers with you as you may come across four seasons in one day.

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