5 Auckland Kayak Tours Worth Getting Wet For

1.Night Kayak Tour in Glowing Bioluminescent Waters

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 259 reviews · 90 minutes - 2 hours · from $56Our pick

You’ll paddle from Okura Boat Ramp or Waiake Beach with guides such as Paul, Millie, Maurice, and Haley, watching plankton flash blue around your kayak. Expect a short safety lesson, about 75 minutes on the water, and a calm, science-focused evening with gear included.

“The bioluminescent plankton were amazing to see glowing at night along with the bright stars. The guides Paul and Millie were amazing and very knowledgeable!”

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2.Bioluminescence Kayak Tour – Est. 1994

★★★★★★★★★★4.0 · 187 reviews · from $73

Learn to kayak in Auckland’s protected Long Bay and Okura Marine Reserve, then watch the water flash with plankton under the stars. Guides such as Josh, Elena, Gareth, and Paul have helped make this a relaxed first-time adventure. Expect a small group, stable kayaks, and possible wet clothes.

“Luminosity varies depending on the circumstances but overall it was a great experience and highly recommend. I do wish communication prior to the day was a bit better.”

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3.Sunset kayak tour to Rangitoto Island

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 168 reviews · from $152Top rated

You’ll paddle about 5 km across the Waitematā Harbour, eat a Kiwi BBQ on Rangitoto, hike toward the summit, and return by kayak after dark. Guides such as Daniel, Byron, Elle, and Nathan lead small groups of up to eight, with equipment supplied and vegetarian meals available by request.

“An absolutely fantastic experience for those with a decent fitness level. Fun paddling, gorgeous scenery, and an amazing guide in Ben.”

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4.Day sea kayak tour Rangitoto Island

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 79 reviews · from $152

Spend about six and a half hours sea kayaking from St. Heliers to Rangitoto, hiking to its summit, and sharing a Kiwi BBQ by the water. Guides such as Daniel, Eric, Chloe, and Bennett provide patient instruction for beginners. Small groups are limited to eight people.

“Our guide, Chloe, was AMAZING! She is super friendly, helpful and knowledgeable giving us detailed information and instruction. It was a perfect day for kayaking and hiking. She even grilled us steaks for lunch! This excursion was well thought out due to the amount of activity required. The schedule of kayaking, hiking, lunch, kayaking allowed enough rest between upper body and lower body activities! It’s truly a day of physical activity combined with beautiful views. Our group was small and perfect allowing everyone to get to know each other too!”

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5.Half-Day Sea Kayak Tour to Motukorea Island

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 6 reviews · 4h 30m · from $116

Kayak from St Heliers Beach to Motukorea Island with an English-speaking guide, then walk to the summit of Auckland’s best-preserved volcano. Daniel, Marco, and Bennet have earned special praise for clear instruction and local stories. No previous kayaking experience is needed.

“Marco, our guide, was super friendly, knowledgeable, and well organized. He smoothly handled a participant showimg up late, who missed her kayak group, and ask our group if we minded taking a few extra minutes to get the newcomer set to kayak with us. Awesome service!! Definitely recommend!!”

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