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South Island

Start: Akaroa
Duration: 7-10 hours
Difficulty: 2
Minimum Age: 6

Details

Paddle with Wildlife in Pohatu Marine Reserve

Start your adventure with a scenic drive from Akaroa to Pohatu Bay, where a guided safety briefing prepares you for the afternoon kayaking safari. Glide your kayak through calm waters lined with towering cliffs, deep-sea caves, and volcanic reefs, keeping watch for fur seals, native seabirds, penguins on the rocks, and even Hector’s dolphins. The experience is designed for active participants with good fitness, offering both exhilaration and natural beauty.

After the paddle, enjoy some downtime on land—relax or take a short walk through ancient forest paths, and freshen up using communal kitchen and shower facilities. This transition prepares you for the next phase of your day with comfort and choice, ensuring that both body and mind are refreshed before the evening’s highlight.

Dusk Penguin Conservation and Close Encounters

As evening settles, join a guided conservation walk from the Helps family homestead to monitor penguin nesting boxes and learn about local preservation efforts. From hilltop hides, observe the Kororā (White‑flippered Penguins) socialising on the water as they return ashore to their nests—often at the magical "penguin hour." The walk ends before full darkness to respect the penguins’ natural behaviour and ensure minimal disturbance.

This tour seamlessly blends adventure with empathy—connecting you to Pohatu’s wildlife through kayaking and conservation in one meaningful experience. It’s a complete nature immersion, perfect for active explorers who value both discovery and protection of Aotearoa’s unique ecosystems.

INCLUSIONS

  • Scenic drive by 4WD mini vans from Akaroa
  • Photos stops along the way with commentary about the area
  • Evening penguin tour
  • Fully guided tour
  • All kayaking gear (life jackets, dry jackets, spray deck, dry bags for cameras)
  • Free access to facilities for dinner and shower

AGE INFORMATION

  • Adult: 16 Years +
  • Children: 6-15 Years Old
  • Minimum age: 6 years

CANCELLATION AND REFUND

  • More than 24 hours before departure: Full refund less 10% service charge**
  • Within 24 hours: No refund

Note: **Refund excludes 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.

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