Rotorua Kayak Tours

Discover Geothermal Wonders and Glow-Worm Magic by Water

Explore Rotorua’s stunning geothermal landscapes from the most immersive vantage point — the water. Rotorua Kayak Tours offer unforgettable paddling experiences across crystal-clear lakes surrounded by steaming cliffs, hidden hot springs, and volcanic valleys. It’s a unique way to witness the power and beauty of the world’s youngest geothermal system.

Guided tours often take you through Lake Rotomahana and the Waimangu Volcanic Valley, where you can paddle past boiling waters, colourful mineral terraces, and untouched geothermal features inaccessible by foot. Whether you're drifting through volcanic terrain or gliding past lush forest, the views are absolutely one-of-a-kind.

Family kayaking on calm waters surrounded by native bush in Waimangu Volcanic Valley.

Smiling kayakers enjoying the geothermal lake during a family tour in Waimangu Valley.

Three friends kayaking across the calm waters of Lake Rotoiti on a sunny day with River Rats.

Group relaxing in a hot pool beside Lake Rotoiti with red kayaks and a wooden wharf in view.

Glow worm cave lit up above kayakers paddling through a narrow grotto on a Rotorua night tour.

Two people kayaking beside geothermal steam vents rising from Lake Rotomahana's cliffs.

Family preparing kayaks at the launch site surrounded by native forest near Lake Rotomahana.

Red kayaks neatly lined up on the shore of Lake Rotoiti, ready for adventure.

Visitors soaking in hot pools next to kayaks and jetty on the edge of Lake Rotoiti.

Kayakers passing steaming geothermal cliffs surrounded by lush native bush at Lake Rotomahana

Two people kayaking under a canopy of glow worms inside a lit cave on Lake Okareka.

Kayakers drifting beneath a starlit ceiling of glow worms in a Rotorua cave tunnel.

Solo paddler in a yellow kayak gliding across Lake Rotoiti with cloud reflections on the water.

Kayak tour on Lake Tarawera passing steaming geothermal shoreline with River Rats.

Two kayaks paddling along Lake Rotomahana’s steaming volcanic cliffs in Waimangu Valley.

Kayakers paddling along the Ōhau Channel past riverside homes on a River Rats tour near Rotorua.

Paddle to Hidden Pools and Twilight Glow-Worm Caves

One of the top highlights is a kayaking trip to Manupirua Springs Hot Pools on Lake Rotoiti — only reachable by water. After your paddle, unwind in naturally heated lakeside pools with stunning views of the surrounding bush-covered hills.

For a magical evening experience, try the Glow-worm Kayak Tour. Set out at sunset and paddle across calm waters before entering glow-worm caves that shimmer with thousands of twinkling lights — a surreal, starry experience under the cliffs.