Things to do in New Plymouth, North Island: The Best Boat Tours & Water Sports

Get ready for a day full of adventure, fun and laughter with Canoe and Kayak, Taranaki. We use friendly, qualified guides who consider your safety and enjoyment to be paramount! We are advertising two of our most popular tours, but please see us for any of your kayaking needs. We can tailor trips just for you! Waitara River. The lower part of the Waitara River is very safe and an ideal introduction to the thrill of white water paddling. It is a scenic grade 2 paddle, winding it`s way through native bush, cliff faces, farm land and under the historic Bertrand Road Suspension Bridge. Allow 3-4 hours and enjoying fresh water swimming, exhilarating rapids, exciting games, refreshing snacks, learn helpful skills and cultural and historical significance. You can even try sliding down a bank in your kayak! $85.00 PP Sugar Loaf Island. Receive some basic instructions in the safe waters of the beautiful Ngamotu Beach harbour, before heading out into the open sea towards the Nga Motu/Sugar Loaf Island Marine Reserve. Here you will enjoy the thrill of close up views of a seal colony in its natural habitat, with the spectacular Taranaki Mountain, port and power station as your backdrop. Allow 3-4 hours. $95.00 PP

We are primarily a wildlife boat tour attraction where we head out of the Port of Taranaki towards the Sugar Loaf islands to look at the seal colony. We also provide SUP, Kayak and bike hire and SUP lessons upon booking request. We cater for groups, events, schools, kids, adults, individuals, couples etc. We are run and managed by a former All Black and the fastest woman to solo row the Atlantic and there is also a museum of old nautical memorabilia, live cam of the local little blue penguins and seahorses to look at. Please check times when booking as Mondays are sometimes closed. Hours may vary depending on tides and weather. Sunset cruises are also available. Check website booking system for more details

If you are looking for that unique boutique experience off the beaten path, look no further. NAU MAI means WELCOME in the local Maori language and that's how you'll feel. We have activities and tours from surfing, horse riding, culture (arts and Maori), hiking, gin/beer/wine tasting and many more. Ranging from 3 hours to days. It's up to you how long you want to experience paradise.

Surfing made easy and fun on New Plymouth's famous Fitzroy Beach. Are you wanting to begin, improve, or try out a new experience with family and friends? It’s never too late to try. We are dedicated to make learning to surf safe and heaps of fun for you. We offer group and private lessons all year round. We also offer a holiday sessions and events for Schools, Large Groups and Corporates.

TaraWave Surf School is located on Surf Highway 45 in beautiful Oakura Beach, Taranaki.All equipment is provided, along with friendly, fun-loving, qualified instructors who emphasize safety….and have surfing knowledge second to none. If we can’t teach you to surf, no one can!Lessons take place on Oakura Beach, last 1.5 hours and are arranged by appointment only.