Franz Josef Kayak Trips - Lake Mapourika

Formed by the retreating Franz Josef Glacier on the West Coast of New Zealand, Lake Mapourika is a tranquil oasis bounded by the Southern Alps with superb views of the glaciers and mountaintops. Bordering on Okarito state forest with its 900 year old kahikatea trees, the sanctuary is a protected habitat for the Rowi – New Zealand’s rarest kiwi. At sunset, these shy birds come out to forage. Gliding through the calm waters in a sea kayak on a Lake Mapourika kayaking tour from Franz Josef is the ideal way to explore Lake Mapourika, a photographers dream. Listen to the melodic native birds in full song, whilst exploring the forest edges. Take in the reflections of Jurassic forest, jagged mountains and glaciers. Take a walk through the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary. On clear days, you will be rewarded with awe-inspiring views and reflections of the Southern Alps -- including the west coast glaciers and Mt. Cook.