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Waiheke Island Sea Kayak Tour
Duration: Overnight / 2 days
Sea kayak to Waiheke Island and see Waiheke from a slower more discerning perspective. Allow yourself - by ocean paddling - the time to enjoy our Auckland landscapes, sea spheres, marine life and simply think about the good life. Here's all you need to know about our Waiheke Island Sea Kayak Tour.
Sea Kayak, See Waiheke
Waiheke Island Sea Kayak Tours are not simply another tour operation nor another sea kayaking sales-pitch, rather an offering on local tourism embracing place-responsive journeys that are environmentally friendly and socially-sound.
Waiheke Island, located in the Hauraki Gulf of New Zealand, is a popular destination for sea kayaking enthusiasts. Known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse underwater marine life, including fish, stingrays, and occasionally dolphins or orcas. Waiheke Island Sea Kayak Tours offer a unique and memorable sea kayaking experience. Keep an eye out for seals basking on rocks, seabirds soaring overhead, and the occasional penguin sighting.
Along the way we will also try our hand at ocean fishing. John Dory, Snapper and other fish are on the menu!
Native bush walk and cascading waterfalls
As you explore the coastal sections of the walk, you may be fortunate enough to spot the elusive NZ dotterel and other shore birds foraging along the beach.
Explore the breathtaking Nikau forest and native vegetation while meandering along the Whakanewha Regional Park enchanting paths. Enjoy the cool shade during the summer and find solace from the rain in its protective canopy. Discover the serene and picturesque loop walk nestled within the Whakanewha Regional Park in Omiha, Waiheke Island.
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty as you traverse well-maintained paths that gently wind through the park then be inspired by some cascading waterfalls. The tracks - mainly composed of gravel and dirt - feature occasional steps and mostly gradual inclines, ensuring a comfortable and leisurely stroll.
Along the route, you'll encounter a fascinating array of flora. From supple jack to epiphytes, giant tree ferns to rata vines, the diversity of plant life adds a touch of wonder to your journey. Keep an eye out for the graceful presence of Tūī birds, pīwakawaka (fantails), kererū (wood pigeons), and kōtare (kingfishers) as they inhabit the bush and grace the surroundings with their vibrant colors and melodies.
Batch Winery and Dining
Vineyard: Established in 1998, the Thomas Vineyard is a 3.5 Hectare steep north-facing vineyard, planted with Chardonnay with small parcels of Syrah and Pinot Gris. A Hilltop vineyard, planted in low fertility, iron-rich clays, produced from weathered ancient Jurassic bedrock. Maritime salt-laden winds bring Umami flavours to the wines. Later in 2006 came the 2 hectare Margaret Reeve Lane Vineyard with mature plantings of Syrah and Bordeaux.
Food: Relaxed island-style eating with dishes to share while overlooking the Hauraki Gulf and Auckland City skyline. Menus offer dishes made from fresh, healthy and local ingredients. At Batch Winery we will have a 3-course meal and drinks
Glamping waiheke island - Luxury Camping
A brought to you and done for you service: turn up and simply slide into bed. Wake up and just leave without having to pack anything away. We supply all sleeping necessities and extra luxuries. Just check the gear list tab for what you otherwise need.
Benefits of Glamping in Poukaraka Flats campground: Tent breathabilty and ventilation, bomb-proof in wind and rain, stand up and move around!
Island life on Waiheke
They say that island time is slow and cozy living. Sea kayaking is synonymous with Waiheke where, it is a slower form of journey, embracing the warm waters, fishing, food, drinks and sunbathing that affords those who arrive in sea-kayak-style.
Overnight / 2 days
Similar trips to this:
Itineraries
Start
Meet at Maraetai Boat Ramp, organise clothing and equipment, learn how to use your kayak.
2hrs / 7.5km sea kayak and fishing
Start paddling. Slow and steady, no rush.
2hrs Native bush walk and Cascading Waterfalls
Easy walking on well-maintained tracks, undulating
Batch Winery Dining
3-course meal and drinks
Glamping Tents and Sunset
Enjoy the sunset over the Hauraki Guld and Auckland City skyline. Slide into your comfortable and warm bed.
2hrs / 7.5km sea kayak and fishing return
Return back to the Auckland mainland
Because of the tides and opening times at The Batch winery. Poukaraka flats campground can only be reached by sea kayak at high tide and Batch Winery is only open on average 11:00-16:00
Just a drink bottle and any of your favourite snacks. Otherwise; we provide everything that is not on the gear list
Drinkable (potable) water available.
No power supply.
Free gas barbecue available to campers for use when staying at the campground.
Cold showers and a flush toilet on site.
No. Just a willing attitude. Our kayaks are stable, our gear is safe, our guides are competent and we only operate during calm conditions.
We select the best staff for the job based on their skills, knolwedge and experiences. They will be an SNM staff member or we will bring in support from equally competent contractors. Sometimes we also bring in (semi)celebrity guests!
We will simply shuttle you to the nearest ferry; Waiheke Ferries are almost never cancelled.
If you add 4 hours to your prior day's start time you will be back then the next day. For example, you met on Wednesday at 07:00, you will return and finish at 11:00 on Thursday. This is because of the sunrise, tides and paddling time back.
This list will ensure that whichever season and whatever weather; you will be prepared and comfortable.
Clothing
- Shorts / Pants
- Swimwear
- Towel
- Socks
- Thin merino shirt / thermal shirt x 2
- Fleece / woolen / synthetic jumper x 2
- Waterproof Jacket
- Warm beanie
- Neck warmer / scarf
Equipment
- Camp shoes
- Walking footwear
- Sunglasses
- Personal medication
- Water bottle
- Backpack to put all of the above in
- Headlamp / torch
Includes:
Staff
Activity specific items included:
Kayak
Paddle
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)