Auckland Sea Kayaks are specialists in marine-based tourism and education
Our Mission: To provide exceptional marine-based experiences that are safe, inclusive, and educational.
At Auckland Sea Kayaks, we deliver unforgettable kayaking Auckland adventures that showcase the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Hauraki Gulf. Our expertly guided sea kayaking experiences, educational programs, and strong commitment to sustainability offer visitors the opportunity to engage with nature in a meaningful and unforgettable way.
But don’t just take our word for it. Here’s what one guest had to say:
“Hands-down the best experience we’ve had in New Zealand.”
– Amy, 2025
Our Paddling Area
The Hauraki Gulf Marine Park is a kayaker’s paradise, featuring over 50 islands, volcanic cones, and pristine conservation areas. Just minutes from downtown Auckland, it’s the perfect setting for those looking to kayak Auckland or explore Rangitoto Island by water.
Paddle through crystal-clear waters, uncover hidden coves, and witness incredible marine life—from dolphins and orca to rare seabirds like the New Zealand dotterel and saddleback. Our trips offer a rare perspective of Auckland and its spectacular natural surroundings.
Our Environmental Stance
Environmental protection is central to everything we do. We follow the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace and have developed a robust Sustainability Action Plan to actively care for and improve the health of the Gulf. We are committed to:
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Delivery of the Community Conservation Fund
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Regular clean-up events and marine debris monitoring
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Pest control support and native habitat restoration
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Education for all guests on sustainable travel and the Tiaki Promise
As advocates of regenerative tourism, our goal is not only to protect—but to improve—the places we explore.
Safety Standards
The safety and well-being of our staff, clients, and the environment is fundamental to our operations. Auckland Sea Kayaks is a Registered Adventure Activity Operator with WorkSafe, and our systems are independently audited by QualWorx each year.
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We operate under official concessions from the Department of Conservation and Auckland Council
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We hold Pest Free Warrants for operating on protected Hauraki Gulf islands
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Nic Mead, our general manager, is an NZOIA Sea Kayak Assessor and holds the advanced NZOIA Sea Kayak 2 qualification, ensuring that best practice is embedded across our team
Your safety is our priority—and it shows in our training, planning, and the professionalism of every trip we run.
Gold Sustainable Tourism Business Award
Recognised for excellence in customer experience and sustainability
Auckland Sea Kayaks holds a Qualmark Gold Award—New Zealand tourism’s highest independent quality assurance standard. This award recognises businesses that deliver exceptional customer experiences while leading the way in sustainability.
A Gold Sustainable Tourism Business Award is reserved for operators who consistently exceed visitor expectations, care for their people and environment, and help shape New Zealand as a world-class, sustainable visitor destination.
We’re proud to stand at the forefront of responsible tourism in Aotearoa.
About Your Guides
We employ guides who, like us, are professionally experienced sea kayakers with a personal commitment and passion for conservation. Irrespective of their own experience, new guides undergo a detailed training programme specific to the Hauraki Gulf conditions.
As paddlers who love the ocean, we are at our best when we are in a sea kayak sharing with others our skills, experience, knowledge, passion and commitment.
Auckland Sea Kayaks is an Accredited Employer through Immigration New Zealand.
We currently have a role as Lead Guide and Safety Manager available and details can be found here.
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Caitlin Buitenhek
Sea Kayak Guide
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Daniel Bull
Sea Kayak Guide
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Mitzi Janes
Sea Kayak Guide
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Raphaëlle Savard
Sea Kayak Guide
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Benjamin Ponce
Sea Kayak Guide
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Tony Waters
Sea Kayak Guide
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Jean-Luc Dippie
Beach Rentals Instructor
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Nic Mead
Sea Kayak Guide
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Jasper Graysmith
Beach Rentals Instructor
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Dave Maegaard
Operations
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Richard Cross
Sea Kayak Guide
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Bennett Lim
Sea Kayak Guide
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Ocean Belcher
Marketing Manager
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“Auckland Sea Kayaks owner-operator Nic Mead is an unofficial custodian of the Waitemata Harbour. The environment-conscious kayaker grew up overlooking the waters he now paddles daily, sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm while leading one of Auckland's most rewarding outdoor experiences: the sunset trip to Rangitoto Island.”
Chris Chilton, Sunday Star Times
