Kayak & Canoe Tours
Family-friendly Tours
Nature & Wildlife
Half-Day Tours
A Safe and Unforgettable Family Adventure
Safety and comfort are at the heart of every Kaikoura Family Kayak Wildlife Experience. All essential gear is provided, keeping you warm and dry even when paddling close to the waves. Morning tours often offer the calmest waters and the best chances to spot wildlife up close.
Children can share a kayak with an adult, giving them confidence while they take in the wonders of the marine world. The guides’ expert knowledge ensures a smooth, enjoyable outing that balances adventure with peace of mind. Whether it’s your first family kayaking trip or a return to Kaikōura’s shores, this experience promises lasting memories for everyone.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Top Activity in Kaikōura: Rated highly on TripAdvisor for 2024
- Personalised Experience: Guide-to-family ratio of 1:1 ensures safety and a tailored adventure
- Optimal Marine Life Interactions: Morning tours offer the calmest seas and best wildlife sightings
- Diverse Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see New Zealand Fur Seals, and potentially dolphins, seabirds, and more
- Stunning Scenery: Paddle with views of mountains, craggy rocks, and cliff faces
- All-Year Operation: Tours available in both summer and winter, with specific timings for each season
TOUR INCLUSIONS
- Professional Guides: Qualified and experienced in leading safe and enjoyable tours
- Comprehensive Equipment: Includes dry pants, jackets, wetsuit booties, and dry bags for cameras
- Tailored Tours: Customisable to meet specific family needs and preferences
- Stable Kayaks: Enclosed and designed to keep you warm and dry throughout the tour
- Safety Briefing: Covers gear usage, paddling techniques, and safety guidelines
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
- Age Requirements:
- Children aged 3 - 12 years,
- Adults 13 years and above
- No Prior Experience Needed: Suitable for all fitness levels and abilities
- Tour Timings:
- Winter (7th April - 28th September):
- 8:30 am: Best for marine life interactions
- 12:30 pm: Warmest part of the day
- 3:30 pm: Available until 30th April
- Summer (29th September - 6th April):
- 8:30 am: Best for marine life interactions
- 12:30 pm: Warmest part of the day
- 4:30 pm: Surreal mountain visuals as light changes
- Winter (7th April - 28th September):
- What to Bring: Water bottle, thermal top, quick-dry pants or shorts (no jeans), sunglasses, cap or fleece hat, running shoes or sandals, and a camera or smartphone
- Non-Swimmers Welcome: Safe stable kayaks and life vests provided
- Parking: Secure off-street and free street parking available
- Solo Travellers: Paired with a guide or other participants
- Dog Facilities: Secure and sheltered area available for dogs
Why Paddle with us?
- Local Expertise: Real sea kayaks made in New Zealand for local conditions, and Kaikōura’s Original Kayak Operator celebrating 25 years
- Comfort and Safety: Enclosed, stable, and comfortable kayaks with lumbar support and closed cell foam seats
- Sustainable Practices: World’s first certified Friend of the Sea kayak operator for Sustainable Dolphin & Whale Watching
CANCELLATION & REFUND
- More than 48 hours before the tour: Full refund.**
- Within 48 hours of the tour: Non Refundable
- Cancellations due to weather or sea conditions: Full refunds for cancellations before departure; 70% after starting**
Note: **Refunds exclude credit card or payment fees if applicable, which are non-refundable.
Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.
