Auckland Sea Kayaks are specialists in marine-based tourism and education
Owner and operator Nic Mead has been exploring the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park for nearly 40 years. He celebrated his first birthday on Motuihe Island and even attended college on the shores of the Waitemata.
Having explored here for a lifetime, the business combines this wealth of knowledge with a passion for conservation to provide exceptional and personal experiences for all our guests.
Our Paddling Area
Auckland Sea Kayaks operates in the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park which is home to a myriad of islands, marine reserves, and many protected conservation areas. Here you can see a wide variety of wildlife including dolphins, whales and some of New Zealand’s rarest birds including the endangered New Zealand dotterel, saddleback, kakariki, and kiwi. Coupled with distinct volcanic cones, crystal clear waters, sandy beaches and virgin forest – you have a sea kayakers paradise just waiting to be explored.
Our Environmental Stance
Auckland Sea Kayaks is an inherently environmentally friendly business, taking advantage of the Hauraki Gulf’s natural wonder. The philosophy of the company is based around protecting, enhancing and educating our guests about our environment, and following the 7 principles of Leave No Trace. We want to ensure the uniqueness of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park is protected and we help make positive changes in the area. Read more about our environmental stance and actions here.
Safety Standards
The safety and well-being of our staff, clients and the environment in which we operate is fundamental to our business. We are a Registered Adventure Activity Operator with WorkSafe and our safety systems are independently audited with QualWorx annually. Nic Mead is an NZOIA sea kayak assessor and is considered a technical expert for sea kayaking holding NZOIA Sea Kayak 2. We operate with Department of Conservation concessions, Auckland Council permits and we are holders Pest Free Warrants for the protected islands of the Gulf.
Gold Sustainable Tourism Business Award
Auckland Sea Kayaks is a QualMark Gold awarded business’. A Gold Award recognizes the best sustainable tourism businesses in New Zealand, with the delivery of exceptional customer experiences an integral part of everything they do. A Gold Sustainable Tourism Award identifies those businesses leading the way in making the New Zealand tourism industry a world class sustainable visitor destination.
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
