The 5 Best Lake Kayak Tours in New Zealand

1.Twilight Glowworm Kayak Tour – Lake Karapiro

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 493 reviews · from $92Our pick

Set out from Piarere with Riverside Adventures Waikato for a 3.5-hour kayak trip on Lake Karapiro and the Pokaiwhenua Stream. Guides such as Daniel, Amy, Jess, Lofty, and David share local nature and star knowledge while you paddle through a canyon after dark to see glowworms.

“The staff was super friendly and helpful. They provide you with everything you need, shoes pants and coat. The kayak trip was not too long and very scenic. We got to see so many glow worms on the rocks at night fall. I loved this experience very much. Highly recommend!”

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2.Franz Josef: 3-Hour Kayak Tour on Lake Mapourika

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 129 reviews · 3 hours · from $86Best value

Meet guides such as Ollie, Pickles, Max, or Farrah in Franz Josef, then take a 10-minute transfer to Lake Mapourika. Paddle calm water through Jurassic rainforest and the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary, with waterproof gear, a dry bag, and free photos included.

“Such a unique and wonderful experience!! Our guide Penny was amazing, she shared so much knowledge about the region as well as Māori knowledge and culture. She also made everyone feel very safe and included in the experience. Would definitely do this again!!”

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3.4-hour Lake Mapourika Kayak and Hike adventure, with Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 117 reviews · from $104

Spend four hours kayaking Lake Mapourika and walking through Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary with guides such as Farrah, Sydney, or Pickles. Expect calm water, Southern Alps views, ancient rainforest, native flora and fauna, hot drinks, and emailed photos. Moderate fitness is enough.

“Absolutely loved this experience! Was a bit nervous as we hadn’t kayaked before but the guides explained everything really well and let you take it at your own pace. The walk was lovely and we learned so much about the area and what thRead more”

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4.Half-Day Kayak to the Maori Rock Carvings in Lake Taupo

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 104 reviews · from $91

Paddle from sheltered Acacia Bay to Mine Bay with a guide, learning about the Māori carvings and local wildlife. Expect about three hours on the water, a muffin and hot drink, and optional swimming or rock jumping. Guides such as Kara, Chase, Will, and Casicia have led recent trips.

“Great experience, with a great guide, she explained all about the area and the local bird species. Beautiful weather and pro like gear.”

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5.Lake Rotoiti Evening Kayak Tour including Hot Springs, Glowworm Caves and BBQ Dinner

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 60 reviews · from $135

Paddle Lake Rotoiti with a trained guide, stopping at warm lakeside hot pools, a glowworm cave, and a crayfish cave before a BBQ dinner. Hotel pickup, equipment, instruction, and entry fees are included. Guides such as Justin and Ricky add local stories and practical help.

“We had an amazing day kayaking to the hot pools, delicious dinner, glow worm caves, and night kayaking under the stars. Highly recommend!”

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