The Browns Island (Motukorea) Sea Kayak Tour offers an exceptional way to experience Auckland’s natural beauty and rich history, all packed into a half-day adventure.
This 4-hour tour is an ideal outing for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike, combining the thrill of sea kayaking with the serene exploration of one of Auckland’s most scenic and historically significant islands.
Transport options from Auckland CBD (Skycity):
Bus: “7342 – Vellenoweth Green” (click here): 30 mins / $4
Private Vehicle: 20 mins
UBER / Taxi: 20 mins / $35
The Browns Island Motukorea Sea Kayak Tour is a captivating journey that combines adventure, history, and natural beauty into a half-day escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Whether you’re paddling through the calm waters of the Hauraki Gulf, exploring the volcanic landscapes, or learning about the island’s storied past, this tour offers a unique perspective on Auckland’s hidden gems.
It’s an ideal activity for those looking to connect with nature, discover new landscapes, and enjoy a memorable kayaking experience in one of New Zealand’s most scenic locales.
The tour kicks off at St Heliers Beach, located just a short journey from Auckland’s downtown CBD. Whether you prefer a quick 15-minute drive, a leisurely 20-minute cycle, a 25-minute e-scooter ride, or even a 2-hour stroll with a coffee in hand, getting to St Heliers is convenient and scenic. This flexibility makes the tour accessible for both locals and visitors.
From St Heliers Beach, the tour heads towards Browns Island, offering participants approximately 45-60 minutes of paddling each way. The route takes you past the charming Gentleman’s and Ladies Bays, navigating through the calm, turquoise waters that surround the uninhabited island. With around 1.5 to 2 hours of paddling in total, the tour is designed to be easy and enjoyable, perfect for those new to sea kayaking.
This tour offers a rare opportunity to explore one of Auckland’s least-visited but most picturesque islands. The combination of serene paddling, stunning views, and rich historical context creates an unforgettable experience.
With its blend of Maori heritage, European settlement history, and diverse wildlife, Browns Island is a microcosm of New Zealand’s rich cultural and natural tapestry. The tour provides insights into these aspects, enriching your understanding of the region.
For those looking to add a touch of adventure to their Auckland itinerary, the Browns Island Sea Kayak Tour is perfect. It offers a unique way to explore the Hauraki Gulf, engage with nature, and experience the thrill of sea kayaking in a safe and guided environment.
Upon arriving at Browns Island, also known as Motukorea, participants are greeted with the opportunity to explore this dormant volcanic island up close. The island, which can only be accessed by sea kayaks and other small vessels, offers a unique landscape shaped by its volcanic past. As you paddle towards the island, you’ll notice its distinctive cone, a remnant of its last eruption around 25,000 years ago. This makes it one of the 53 volcanoes that form the Auckland Volcanic Field, which is still considered active.
Once on land, your guide, an expert in both sea kayaking and the island’s history, transforms into a landscape interpreter. They’ll lead you to the island’s summit, from where you can enjoy uninterrupted 360-degree views of the Hauraki Gulf, Waitemata Harbour, and surrounding islands, including Waiheke, Rangitoto, Motutapu, and Motuihe. These panoramic vistas are a photographer’s dream and a highlight of the tour.
Browns Island has a profound cultural significance. In the Maori language, it is called Motukorea, which translates to Oystercatcher Island, named after the indigenous oystercatcher bird found in the region. The island was once a thriving hub of Maori activity, evident from the remnants of pā sites (ancient Maori villages) and gardens. These archaeological sites offer a glimpse into the island’s past as a center for fishing and agriculture.
The island also holds historical importance from the European colonial era. In 1840, it was purchased by William Brown, hence the name Browns Island. Brown used the island for pig farming, and fascinatingly, it’s known that horses were once swum across the harbour from Karaka Bay to the island. The remnants of these activities can still be seen today, adding to the island’s rich tapestry of history.
Motukorea’s volcanic origins are evident throughout the island. The island’s geological features include lava flows and scoria formations that tell the story of its fiery past. This makes it a fantastic location for those interested in volcanology and geology.
Browns Island is now a sanctuary for various bird species and other wildlife. The island’s conservation efforts have made it a haven for native New Zealand birds like the tūī, pūkeko, and silvereye. You might also spot skinks and geckos basking in the sun. As you paddle towards and around the island, keep an eye out for marine life such as dotterels, oystercatchers, and if you’re lucky, even whales or dolphins. Occasionally, the rare sighting of little blue penguins can add to the magic of the journey.
The tour provides ample opportunities to learn about the island’s ecological and geological significance. With its unique features, Browns Island serves as an excellent field study location for students and researchers interested in environmental conservation, volcanology, and geology.
Your guide will share intriguing stories and historical facts, such as the tale of the Barnard brothers who, in 1909, launched New Zealand’s first homemade flying machine from Browns Island. This pioneering event marks the beginning of the country’s aviation history.
The Browns Island Sea Kayak Tour is friendly for beginners, making it accessible to a wide range of ages and fitness levels. No prior sea kayaking experience is necessary, as the tour includes a comprehensive orientation and safety briefing.
