Things to do in Bay of Plenty Region, North Island: The Best Kayaking & Canoeing

River Rats have been offering quality adventures for over 35 years. There’s something for everyone, from full on grade 5 action on the Kaituna River, featuring the world's highest commercially rafted waterfall, through to a gentle grade 2 scenic raft trip suitable for participants as young as 5 years old. Kayaking is available as freedom hire or a guided tour. Paddle the local lakes to a secluded beach or enjoy a hot water swim only accessible by boat, an evening kayak option is available in summer that includes a BBQ dinner and a hidden Glow Worm cave

Operating in the Eastern Bay of Plenty since 2002 we offer guided tours and freedom hires in a variety of locations around the Whakatane /Ohope Beach area. With local guides, our unique moonlight/ sunset tours and offshore tours at spectacular Moutohorā / Whale Island are particularly popular. The trip out to Whale Island by sailing catamaran is always memorable, plus the regular seal encounters and hot water beach experience make it a day to remember. Departure times are Whale Island :8am, Coastal Adventure 8 30am, Ohiwa Explorer by arrangement, Freedom hire available all day. Safety on the water and catering for occasional kayakers (novices) is what we are about ! See you soon !

Kayak adventures, including Glow Worm kayaking in the dark, that will get you off the beaten track and give you a taste of the real NZ. Personal, guided kayak tours that ensure you discover some unforgettable places. Glow Worm Kayaking & Bush Walk Tour - an adventure kayaking and walking in the dark to see the glow worms, hear the wildlife and see the southern stars. Get up close and personal to these incredible illuminated creatures. This is a truly magical and special place in NZ. Simply a must do if you're in the area. Round the Mount Kayak Tour - a sealife safari exploring the rocky shores of the iconic Mauao extinct volcano with it's Maori tales and history. Paddle to the reserve islands just off shore to view the seals and spot a blue penguin. Adventure, nature and culture all rolled in to one trip. Lake McLaren Kayak & Waterfall Tour - a relaxed paddle and short walk exploring the native flora and fauna of this secluded lake and the surrounding bush. Explore the secluded hidden waterway and take a short walk through the native bush to a pretty waterfall. Ideal for families or those wanting their first taste of kayaking in beautiful surroundings.

We are a world class kayaking company based right on the world famous Kaituna river. We offer a full range of kayaking lessons, Tandem kayak trips, gear hire, gear sales, and multiday kayak trips around the Bay of Plenty.

NZ Kayaker prides itself in delivering unique kayaking adventures. We are the only kayak fishing specialist in the Bay of Plenty and will take you on a fishing trip that is unlike anything else. If fish isn't your thing, then perhaps you might like a more relaxed tour that takes in the many sights of our beautiful coastline, while learning some of the local history. Run by Tim Taylor, of notable fame for completing the only solo circumnavigation of New Zealand in a kayak, you can rest easy knowing that all of your needs are taken care of...all you need to bring is a positive attitude and a big smile for all the photos!

Memories that will last a Lifetime through experiencing Maori Culture Explore and discover the region’s beautiful Moana (lakes) and Awa (rivers) aboard either Kahukura and Tieke, our specially designed 24 seat replica of a ‘waka tangata’ (people’s canoe) which have travelled throughout the rohe (surrounding areas) for many years. Enjoy the warmth and hospitality of our crew as we share our passion

We offer door to door transport service from specific pick up locations so you can enjoy a relaxing summers evening. Kayaking to view the glow worms from the water, inside the amazing Mangapapa canyon