Get in a kayak (the boats have a capacity of one to three people) and find the answer to the question for yourself. One thing is for sure, this land is simply delightful and you will have plenty to see while kayaking.
New Zealand has almost limitless opportunities for full-fledged kayaking. Its coastline stretches for many kilometers, and you will encounter islands, bays, lagoons and even fjords along the way.
Beginner kayak travelers can start with small walks on the smoothness of lakes and small enclosed bays. Then, more challenging routes can be paddled.
New Zealand’s most popular destinations:
- Bay of Plenty
- Dowtful Sound
- Milford Sound
- Lake Taupo
- Whanganui River
The Bay of Plenty region, located on the North Island, attracts tourists with its special natural beauty, geysers and beautiful landscapes. Fans of kayaking and other water activities prefer to vacation in the town of Tauranga. Around the city there are picturesque beaches, there is all the infrastructure for kayaking.
The incredibly beautiful fjords of Doutful Sound and Milford Sound are part of Fjordland National Park. Doutful Sound, called Silent Sound because of its constant silence, was discovered by James Cook. The great explorer didn’t venture into the strait, but a modern kayak easily navigates the waters past rocks overgrown with exotic plants. Tropical forest, black water, majestic cliffs and beautiful waterfalls – all this splendor can be contemplated from a kayak.
Milford Sound is famous for the highest coastal cliffs, red-listed birds and animals. It rains constantly here, and part of the space is at the mercy of clouds of spray from water cascading down the cliffs onto the coastal rocks. Adjoining the fjord is Lake Te Anau, known as a habitat for rare birds (takahe and kakapao parrot). The lake can be accessed by kayak on the Eglinton River, and the route follows the Waiau River to Lake Manapouri.
The Whanganui River is “born” on the slopes of the Taranaki Volcano (North Island) and ends by flowing into the Tasman Sea. It is an ideal sea kayaking route through the reserve. In addition to beautiful views, the area, covered with giant ferns, attracts an abundance of exotic birds. Numerous flocks of Kiwis, parrots and pigeons live here.
Lake Taupo is a paradise for sea kayaking enthusiasts. The lake is located on the North Island in the caldera of an extinct volcano. It is famous for its crystal clear water. Here you can enjoy beautiful rocks and waterfalls, climb mountains and visit geothermal springs.
But the main highlight of the lake is the rock paintings of the indigenous Maori people of New Zealand. They can be seen only from the water, you can swim up close and get a good look at all the lines and patterns. And fishing fans can prepare rods and cages for local trout.
On the shore of the lake there is a town where you can rest, stock up on provisions and everything you need. There is an airport nearby, so you can start or end your kayaking trip here.
In addition to incredible scenery, New Zealand is famous for its beautiful underwater world. Going to places suitable for diving you can see flocks of frolicking dolphins, killer whales and seals. Boats go quite quietly without scaring the animals, so you can get close and have a photo safari.