Kayak & Canoe Tours
Nature & Wildlife
Family-friendly Tours
Half-Day Tours
Experience True Calm on an Okarito Lagoon Kayak Tour
Whether you choose a two-hour guided journey or a more immersive three-hour tour, kayaking at Ōkārito Lagoon is about discovering nature at its purest. You’ll paddle through secluded rainforest-lined creeks, accessible only by kayak, where native birds like kotuku (white heron) and royal spoonbills thrive.
Private tours offer an even more intimate connection with this pristine environment, allowing you to savour every quiet moment surrounded by water, forest, and sky.
A guided small-group or private guided kayak at Ōkārito Lagoon is more than a scenic paddle—it’s a soulful experience. Here, the gentle rhythm of your paddle and the chorus of native birds remind you just how special New Zealand’s wild places truly are.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Guided kayak tours through Ōkārito Lagoon's unique ecosystem.
- Intimate exploration of rainforest-surrounded creeks accessible only by kayak.
- Unbroken views across Westland Tai Poutini National Park, from the Tasman Sea to Aoraki/Mt. Cook.
- Personal and unscripted tours with passionate local guides.
- Professional guide – certified local expert providing safety, paddling instruction, and nature interpretation
- All kayaking gear – sea kayak, paddles, spray skirt, and waterproof bags for cameras and small items
- Safety equipment – life jacket (PFD) and sandfly repellant provided
- Pre‑tour briefing – safety overview, paddling techniques, and route orientation
- Wildlife & scenic commentary – insights into local flora, fauna, and history
- Small group experience – personalized attention and relaxed pace
- Refreshments – light snacks, drinking water, and complimentary tea or coffee after kayaking ☕
- Use of facilities – changing area, restrooms, and secure storage
- Weather‑appropriate gear – rain jackets or thermal layers available if needed
- Environmental care – eco‑friendly practices and conservation awareness
- Adults: 18 years +
- Child: 17 years and under
Minimum Age
Absolutely not—there’s no maximum age either! We love helping families get out and explore. In the right conditions, the lagoon is a fantastic spot for kids to safely connect with nature. We carefully assess the weather, tidal conditions, and your group’s abilities to ensure everyone feels safe and comfortable on the water.
Life jackets or buoyancy aids are available for all ages, and we’ll plan a safe route together. If the conditions aren’t suitable for your group, we’ll let you know and may recommend a guided trip or suggest trying again on another day.
Please note, all children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
- 7 days or more before travel: Full refund**
- 6 days or less: Non Refundable
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.