Top 5 Island Kayak Tours in New Zealand

1.Sunset kayak tour to Rangitoto Island

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 168 reviews · from $152Our pick

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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2.Whangamata: Donut Island Guided Kayaking Experience

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 143 reviews · 2 hours · from $62Best value

Paddle 600 metres from Whangamata Beach to Donut Island, also known as Whenuakura, with a small English-speaking group of up to eight. Guides such as Dylan, Hannah, Mauro, and Dakota lead the way, explain the island’s wildlife and volcanic rocks, and may offer kawakawa tea on a nearby beach.

“It was stunning! The islands, the kayaking, the history of the area… and the “hidden” jungle… absolutley loved it!!! Highly recommended!”

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3.Day Cruise & Island Tour – Snorkel/Wildlife/Paddleboard/Islands

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 121 reviews · from $89

Spend 3.5 hours cruising the Bay of Islands from Paihia, with two island stops chosen for the day’s wind. Hike to viewpoints, swim, snorkel, or paddleboard with gear supplied. Guides such as Zac, Nicola, Cass, and Josh add local stories and help keep the outing personal.

“Great tour. Fun boat ride and awesome stops to climb up to viewpoint on Robertson island. Water sports were really fun - saw lots of fish and sting ray. Brought an infant - worked well with chest carrier (not for prams).”

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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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