On the Water
6–7 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 100% of travellers
100% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
$245
per adult
Auckland Sea Kayaks
Auckland Sea Kayaks
5
8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Full view
About
Auckland is one of the world’s most unique sea kayaking locations. It is a region of exceptional natural beauty, volcanic islands, sandy beaches and is abundant with wildlife. The sheltered waters of the Waitemata Harbour make it a sea kayaker’s paradise waiting to be discovered.
Tours and Tickets by Auckland Sea Kayaks
Night Tours
2–3 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
from
$135
per adult
On the Water
6–7 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 98% of travellers
98% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
$245
per adult
On the Water
4 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 100% of travellers
100% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
$195
per adult
Travellers talk about
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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5.0
572 reviews
Excellent
534
Very good
29
Average
4
Poor
1
Terrible
4
Ross D
1 contribution
Nov 2024 • Couples
Ellie was a great guide and made sure we experienced all the different aspects of the tour while keeping us well-fed and safe. My wife and I did a two-day tour with an overnight camp on one of the islands.
We are average kayakers and managed the trip with average weather conditions without any issues. Auckland Sea Kayaks are accommodating to your individual needs, so if you want some of your creature comforts, you can bring a bit of personal camping gear to make it more comfortable. Just remember there’s very limited room in the kayaks, so pack wisely and as minimally as possible.
My wife and I brought our own camping hammock and a few snacks, even though the tour is fully catered. Next time, we’d bring one of those hang-up bag showers to round off the glamping experience.
Ellie also took some great photos of us, which is a nice touch for couples traveling and wanting to capture memories together. The average person will be challenged by this tour, but it is rewarding and a worthwhile experience. We’d recommend doing it at least once.
We are average kayakers and managed the trip with average weather conditions without any issues. Auckland Sea Kayaks are accommodating to your individual needs, so if you want some of your creature comforts, you can bring a bit of personal camping gear to make it more comfortable. Just remember there’s very limited room in the kayaks, so pack wisely and as minimally as possible.
My wife and I brought our own camping hammock and a few snacks, even though the tour is fully catered. Next time, we’d bring one of those hang-up bag showers to round off the glamping experience.
Ellie also took some great photos of us, which is a nice touch for couples traveling and wanting to capture memories together. The average person will be challenged by this tour, but it is rewarding and a worthwhile experience. We’d recommend doing it at least once.
Written 30 December 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks so much for your thoughtful review! We’re thrilled to hear you and your wife had such a rewarding experience on our two-day tour. Ellie will be delighted to know she helped make your adventure memorable and safe - she's a real asset to our business :)
Also love that you brought a camping hammock—those little personal touches can make all the difference. And a hang-up bag shower? Genius idea .
Thanks again and hope to paddle with you again soon.
Written 3 January 2025
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Judy98136
5 contributions
Dec 2023 • Solo
My daughter has been on three Duke of Edinburgh journeys with Auckland Sea Kayaks, and honestly, we've been pretty happy each time. Each journey has been a new experience for my daughter. She has learned kayaking, teamwork, resilience, and how to tackle challenges. If you're considering a Duke of Edinburgh trip for your child, Auckland Sea Kayaks is a good choice.
Dave has a great way of handling things, understanding the students and parents, thinking on the other people's position and sorting out any issues. Thank you Dave!
Dave has a great way of handling things, understanding the students and parents, thinking on the other people's position and sorting out any issues. Thank you Dave!
Written 31 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Judy, I appreciate you taking the time to send us a review. It's been a pleasure to have your daughter on our Duke of Edinburgh trips.
Written 15 February 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
OffAgain9874123
Westminster, MD23 contributions
Oct 2023 • Friends
Eric was an awesome guide from Narrow Neck Beach to remote Rangitoto Island for a gorgeous sunset hike. Followed by a delicious meal. This was quite the memorable adventure!
Our tour guide was very kind, directive and informative, full of recommendations for fun things to do in NZ. We are so appreciative and thrilled with our expedition!
Our tour guide was very kind, directive and informative, full of recommendations for fun things to do in NZ. We are so appreciative and thrilled with our expedition!
Written 7 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi, thanks for the positive review of your recent tour. I will pass this on to Eric. Hope to paddle with you again soon.
Written 15 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Lou M
Christchurch, New Zealand7 contributions
Apr 2022
Booked a kayak for hire, drove to out to Mission Bay and waited but no-one showed up. No answer on phone or email. Several hours later they responded to my facebook post that it was cancelled due to weather. They said a mass email had been sent out, but we didn't receive one. Having paid in full and supplied all contact details I would've expected more effort to communicate with customers.
Written 19 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Really sorry this happened to you. Mission Bay Watersports is the company who runs this. I will pass on this information.
Written 12 October 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
howie_blackmouse
Christchurch, New Zealand9 contributions
Feb 2023
This afternoon I enjoyed a one hour private lesson followed by an hour's freedom rental. The booking process was simple and Nic was super helpful arranging everything that I needed. I was welcomed warmly on arrival at Mission Bay. The briefing was thorough and the equipment, ready for me, was in excellent condition.
A fantastic hour spent one-on-one with Nathan. A true professional who knew his stuff and knew how to get the best out of me. I learnt heaps and have plenty of tips to improve my paddling.
A great way to enjoy this beautiful corner of Auckland.
A fantastic hour spent one-on-one with Nathan. A true professional who knew his stuff and knew how to get the best out of me. I learnt heaps and have plenty of tips to improve my paddling.
A great way to enjoy this beautiful corner of Auckland.
Written 22 February 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Appreciate you taking the time to review us Howie. We will be happy to paddle with you again one day.
Written 15 March 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
panmylife
Singapore, Singapore44 contributions
Feb 2020 • Solo
A special call out to Tom for being a wonderful guide and my kayak buddy. Very well organized and the bbq dinner was superb, especially after all that paddling. The walk up was relaxed and nicely paced. As it was an overcast day, I was almost certain we would not see the sunset. Was happily chatting away when Tom called us. So happy I did not miss the beautiful sunset view and the beautiful night view of Auckland from Rangitoto.
Written 28 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kia ora,
Stoked to hear you had an amazing experience on your sea kayak trip. Thank you for sharing our passion of a fun filled day paddling on the Hauraki Gulf. Thank you for sharing your review, stoked you enjoyed a beautiful sunset view and the beautiful night view of Auckland from Rangitoto. The Waitemata Harbour has a special place in our hearts, we think it is a sea kayaker’s paradise, waiting to be discovered. Thank you for sharing our passion of a fun filled day paddling on the Hauraki Gulf.
Written 30 November 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
eleTravelD
Los Angeles, CA20 contributions
Jan 2024 • Couples
Best Auckland adventure! I really wanted to maximize our adventure time in Auckland and I cannot recommend this group enough! I did the sea kayak day trip to Rangitoto. I am no kayak expert but everything was made very clear! Our guide Eric was sensational. He was extremely personable and informative. He made us delicious steak! He gave us a very informative hike up the mountain. Y’all need to do this!
Written 3 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Richard
Whitianga, New Zealand2 contributions
Mar 2022 • Friends
Nic and Auckland Sea Kayaks were amazing. We had an exceptional experience in the Cavalli Islands. Nic’s experience, technical skills and group management expertise combined to ensure that we all felt confident, up for a challenge but never overwhelmed. The Cavalli Islands were beautiful, the equipment totally up to standards and we had perfect weather. 10/10
Written 14 March 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Great, yes the Cavalli Islands are beautiful and especially nice to kayak around. Sounds like you were in capable hands with Nic which is great to hear. Hope to see you for another trip in the future.
Written 12 October 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Kim v
8 contributions
Feb 2023 • Solo
Absolutely highly recommended.
The kayaking to Rangitoto is good to do, for anyone who as an average health/ sport condition. And the hike is easy, even considering that there are a few stairs at the last part of the hike.
The view is amazing, especially during sunset.
Kayaking at nighttime is something you really what to do once in your lifetime.
The kayaking to Rangitoto is good to do, for anyone who as an average health/ sport condition. And the hike is easy, even considering that there are a few stairs at the last part of the hike.
The view is amazing, especially during sunset.
Kayaking at nighttime is something you really what to do once in your lifetime.
Written 4 March 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for taking the time to leave us such a positive review. I agree paddling at night is an amazing experience. See you next time.
Written 15 March 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Ilka & Helge
83 contributions
May 2019 • Couples
We booked a 1/2-Day Trip to Motukorea Island with Auckland Sea Kayaks via the i-Site in Auckland. They are offering a transport from Auckland central into St. Heliers as well, in our case we didn´t needed that one. But good to know :-)
When arrived at the beach our guide Nic was waiting and prepared the Kayaks already. Nic told us that we are the only one today (off-season, autumn is coming) - Yeah! Private tour :-) for us!
Moreover, Nic told us very useful background information about Auckland, the volcanic islands as well as the Maori Myths which is really great and not often done by guides in that depth.
Overall Auckland Sea Kayaks is offering reliable, well maintained equipment and is very professional! They know their job! 100% recommended!
When arrived at the beach our guide Nic was waiting and prepared the Kayaks already. Nic told us that we are the only one today (off-season, autumn is coming) - Yeah! Private tour :-) for us!
Moreover, Nic told us very useful background information about Auckland, the volcanic islands as well as the Maori Myths which is really great and not often done by guides in that depth.
Overall Auckland Sea Kayaks is offering reliable, well maintained equipment and is very professional! They know their job! 100% recommended!
Written 23 May 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Really fun to paddle with you yesterday. Autumn producers some amazing, calm and stable paddling conditions and yesterday was a prime example. Its always nice to kayak to an island, climb to the top and see which part of the city you are staying in and learn a bit of history about the area. I'm born and bred in Auckland so its nice to show of my backyard to other people. Have a great time in South America.
Written 23 May 2019
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Do you have an age limit for kids? I have a 13 and 15yr old who are keen.
Written 25 March 2016
I plan a full day on the march 4 and I'd like to know how much kayaking time took you to the island and how much and difficulty to climb? Do I need hardcore snikkers or sandals will be fine?
Is your waterproof bag ok to fit large Nikon camera?
thanks
Roman
Written 1 March 2016
The water was a little choppy the day we kayaked so it took us a little longer; I'd say a little over an hour (but well worth it). We didn't find the hike difficult; I hiked it in Chacos (there is a tiny trail for most of the way). The dry bags are definitely large enough to hold your camera; we stored ours in the bags and it worked great. Have a blast!
Written 3 March 2016
what was the weather like in terms of cold? Wondering what the best clothing and foot wear would be. Thanks!
Written 19 November 2015
I wore quick dry pants in case I got any water on my pants. This was nice for hiking once we got to the island too. I suggest some layers, but as on person already said, they provide thermal tops and jackets. They even have paddle gloves to keep your hands warm.
Written 20 November 2015
John C
Salisbury, North Carolina
Sea Kayaking day/night - will be coming off cruise boat and booked in hotel in Auckland for two days. The second day we have nothing scheduled. Do you pick up/return? Also, we are both 72, but do have 25 years canoeing in the back woods of Canada(in our youth); is this okay for your tour?
Written 24 January 2015
They do a pick up/drop off at a central and easy to get to location in Auckland (outside pier 1, Auckland Ferry Building). Judging by the other paddlers on my trip, you'd be absolutely fine, however, I suggest contacting them directly via their website with further questions. They're helpful and quick to reply. Hope this helps! Happy paddling!
Written 25 January 2015
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