Guided sea kayaking tour to Rangitoto IslandProfessional experienced guideKayak and full safety equipmentSafety briefing and paddling instructionGuided summit walk on Rangitoto IslandBBQ dinner with drinks*Return kayak to St Heliers BayPick-up from Auckland War Memorial is available*Please advise us of any dietary requirements once you have completed the booking. Contact us here and quote your booking #.

Fitness Level: Moderate (kayaking + 2.5km hike)Experience Type: Guided sea kayaking + island hikePaddling Time: 60–90 minutes each wayHike Distance: Approx. 2.5km return to summitGood to Know:Guests must be able to swim and must be able to hike 2.5 km (1.5 miles) rising 270 meters (900 feet)Departures are weather dependentPest-free island biosecurity checks apply

Rangitoto Sunset Kayak & Hike Tour with BBQ Dinner

North Island

Auckland Sea Kayaks

from

US$137

per adult

paddlers kayaking at sunset on Waitemata Harbour with Rangitoto Island and Auckland skyline in the distance

Experiences

Kayak & Canoe Tours

Hiking & Walking

Day Tours

Adventure Tours

North Island

Start: St Heliers, Auckland

Location: Auckland

Travel Time: 7 hours

Difficulty: 3

Minimum Age: 14

The Rangitoto Island Sunset Kayak Tour is a seven-hour guided adventure departing from St Heliers, Auckland. Paddle 60–90 minutes each way across Waitematā Harbour, hike to Rangitoto’s volcanic summit for sunset, enjoy a BBQ dinner and kayak back after dark. Departures are weather-dependent, with frequency and season subject to availability. Kayaking equipment, instruction, guides, dinner and drinks are included. Suitable for active travellers aged 14+ who can swim and complete a moderate hike.

Watch the Sunset from Rangitoto Island’s Volcanic Summit

Begin your adventure with a scenic sea kayak journey from St Heliers towards Rangitoto Island, Auckland’s youngest volcano. As you cross the harbour, enjoy views of the city skyline, surrounding islands and the distinctive volcanic cone rising from the Hauraki Gulf. Once ashore, follow your guide through rugged lava fields and pōhutukawa forest on a 2.5-kilometre return summit walk, climbing approximately 270 metres. Reach the summit in time to watch the sunset, with spectacular 360-degree views across Auckland and the surrounding gulf.

After descending to the shoreline, settle in for a Kiwi-style BBQ dinner with drinks before preparing for the return journey. As darkness falls, paddle back towards St Heliers beneath the evening sky, watching Auckland’s illuminated skyline gradually come into view. The combination of a sunset summit walk, island dining and night kayaking creates an adventure that changes character throughout the evening, offering a memorable experience for travellers who enjoy both outdoor exploration and spectacular scenery.

paddlers kayaking at night with Auckland skyline lights and Sky Tower in the background

paddlers kayaking near Rangitoto Island with Auckland skyline and Sky Tower in the distance

paddlers sea kayaking along Rangitoto Island coastline on Waitemata Harbour

paddlers enjoying kiwi barbecue dinner on Rangitoto Island during sunset kayak tour

paddlers preparing kayaks with headlamps for night paddle from Rangitoto Island

kayakers walking on Rangitoto Island summit track during sunset kayak tour

paddlers kayaking across Waitemata Harbour at sunset on the Rangitoto Island sea kayak tour

Summit Sunset, BBQ Dinner & A Magical Night Paddle

After arriving at Rangitoto Island, follow your guide on a scenic walk through volcanic landscapes and pōhutukawa forest to the summit. Reaching the top in time for sunset, you'll enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views as the sky transforms with colour above Auckland City, the Hauraki Gulf and surrounding islands.

Back at the shoreline, a delicious Kiwi-style BBQ dinner awaits. Relax, refuel and soak up the island atmosphere before launching for the return journey.

Paddling beneath the evening sky, watch Auckland's skyline begin to sparkle as city lights reflect across the harbour. This memorable night paddle provides a completely different perspective of Auckland and is often considered the highlight of the experience.

Guided sea kayaking tour to Rangitoto Island
Professional experienced guide
Kayak and full safety equipment
Safety briefing and paddling instruction
Guided summit walk on Rangitoto Island
BBQ dinner with drinks*
Return kayak to St Heliers Bay
Pick-up from Auckland War Memorial is available

*Please advise us of any dietary requirements once you have completed the booking. email hidden; JavaScript is required.

Fitness Level: Moderate (kayaking + 2.5km hike)
Experience Type: Guided sea kayaking + island hike
Paddling Time: 60–90 minutes each way
Hike Distance: Approx. 2.5km return to summit

Good to Know:

Guests must be able to swim and must be able to hike 2.5 km (1.5 miles) rising 270 meters (900 feet)
Departures are weather dependent
Pest-free island biosecurity checks apply

Cancel 48 hours or more before travel: Refund* less 25% cancellation fee
Cancel within 48 hours/no show: No refund.

*Note: Any refund approved under our terms and conditions will be subject to a 5% admin & processing fee, which will be deducted from the refund amount. Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.

Frequently asked questions

Bring comfortable clothing, sturdy footwear for walking, water, and sun protection. A light jacket is recommended for changing conditions. All kayaking gear is provided.

Yes, you may see native seabirds such as Little Blue Penguins and petrels. Wildlife sightings vary depending on conditions. Your guide will point out any sightings along the way.

A hearty Kiwi BBQ meal with hot and cold drinks is included on Rangitoto Island. It’s a great chance to relax and refuel before the return paddle. Dietary requirements can usually be catered for with notice.

The walk is around 2.5km with a gradual climb of approximately 270 metres. It’s considered moderate and suitable for most active travellers. The views from the top are well worth the effort.

No prior experience is required, but a moderate level of fitness is needed. Your guide provides full instruction and support throughout the tour. Confidence on the water is recommended.