Kayaking NZ - New Zealand

When kayaking nz you'll discover stunning landscapes and water features. There is little wonder why kayaking in New Zealand is one of the most scenic and breathtaking experiences ever. Surrounded by oceans and boasting a beautiful coastline, New Zealand is not wanting for great locations for sea kayaking.

Not only is kayaking an extremely popular sport in this part of the world, it is one of the best ways to experience the country's beautiful and famous sea coast, rivers and lakes. New Zealand offers kayaking enthusiasts locations for both whitewater and sea kayaking.

For those who are intrigued by New Zealand's extensive coastline, sea kayaking presents tourists with the ultimate tour of the country's virgin beaches and rich wildlife such as seals and dolphins. The Hauraki Gulf, the Bay of Islands, and the Coromandel Peninsula are reputedly among the best sea kayaking locations in the North Island. Motukorea, an island in the Hauraki Gulf, is located within a few hours paddling from Auckland's Waitemata Harbour. Closer than Motukorea is Rangitoto, also an island in the Hauraki Gulf, just outside Waitemata Harbour. Motukorea is an impressive volcanic cone that was the result of an undersea eruption around 600 years ago. Kayak tours offer guided paddle to the conical isle including a hike to the summit and back again across the harbor. The view from Motukorea is the stunning Auckland cityscape.

The South Island offers even more gems for kayaking, such as Marlborough Sounds and Milford Sounds. Milford Sound, a popular destination off the coast near Fiordland National Park, is teeming with deep clear waters and spectacular wildlife, including seals, penguins and dolphins who love to mingle with kayakers. Another popular spot for kayaking is the coast of Abel Tasman National Park. However, the biggest spot for kayaking in New Zealand is the Camelot River within the Fiordland National Park. An exhilarating whitewater experience, its deep winding rivers and streams are sure to make any kayaker breathless from excitement. Other popular tour destinations include Te Anau, Doubtful Sound and Manapouri.

Due to the country's varied landscapes, some of the world's most picturesque yet strong-flowing white water rivers are located in New Zealand. A truly adrenaline-pumping activity that doesn't short-change on excitement, white water kayaking as an adventure sport in New Zealand is extremely popular. In fact, numerous kayaking clubs have sprouted all over the country while commercial tour operators have been marketing the country's natural wonders, making kayaking a most popular tourist sport.

The North Island has several spectacular sites for whitewater kayaking such as the Kaituna, Mohaka, Rangitikei and Wairoa rivers. These swift-flowing estuaries are for the kayaker in search of an adrenaline rush. Excellent kayaking hotspots in the South Island include the Buller, the Rangitata, the Kawarau, Grey and Hurunui rivers. Both islands offer guided tours for kayakers of different grade levels. Ideally, it's best to hook up with local certified adventure groups for an amazing kayaking experience since these types of groups are keen on making kayaking in New Zealand a means to promote tourism.