Whether you are planning a serene sunset paddle to Rangitoto Island, a twilight exploration of Motukorea (Brown’s Island), or a guided tour through the iconic Waitematā Harbour, we want to ensure you are fully prepared.

Exploring the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park by kayak is one of the most immersive outdoor adventures in New Zealand. Below, you will find everything you need to know about our safety protocols, fitness requirements, and departure locations at Z Pier (Westhaven Marina) and St Heliers.

If you have a specific question about our 2026 tour schedule or private group bookings that isn’t covered here, please contact our team directly.

General Trip Planning

How do I choose the right kayaking tour for my skill level?

All of our tours are beginner-friendly; however, different levels of fitness are required depending on the route:

• Beginner: The City Lights Tour and the City Scenes Tour are our most entry-level products. These tours last 2 hours (plus a 30-minute safety briefing) and involve paddling for up to 30 minutes at a time without rest in sheltered central city waters.
• Intermediate: The Motukorea (Browns Island) tour involves more open-water paddling. Guests paddle for up to 45 minutes at a time without a break and are invited to hike to the summit of the island during the tour.
• Advanced Fitness: Our Sunset and Day Tours to Rangitoto are best for those with moderate fitness. While no prior kayaking experience is required, you will kayak for over 1 hour each way and must be able to complete a 6km return hike on steep, rocky, and uneven terrain. The hike includes an elevation gain of 270 meters (900ft).

What is the minimum age for children to join a sea kayak tour?

To ensure the safety of all guests, we have specific age requirements based on duration and environmental conditions:

• Why the different limits? Our Rangitoto and Twilight tours involve longer distances, open-water crossings, and changing light conditions. Participants under 14 must be accompanied by an adult.
• Private Tours: For families with children younger than the listed ages, we recommend a Private Tour. This allows our guides to tailor the pace and route to your family’s needs.

What is the weight limit for participants?

To ensure a safe and comfortable fit within our kayak cockpits, we have a weight limit of 120kg (265 lbs). Our seats are approximately 65cm wide. If you have concerns about fit, please reach out so we can discuss the best kayak options for you.

Logistics & Location

Where do the tours depart from?

• City Scenes & City Lights: Depart from Z Pier boat ramp, Westhaven Marina (near the CBD).
• Rangitoto & Motukorea: Generally depart from St Heliers Beach.
• Always check your booking confirmation email for the exact GPS coordinates of your launch site.

Is there parking available at the departure points?

• Z Pier (Westhaven): Paid public parking is available directly at the marina.
• St Heliers: Offers free public parking, though it can be very busy on summer weekends. We recommend arriving at least 15 minutes early.

Safety, Weather & Language

What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my tour?

Sea kayaking is weather-dependent. If wind or swell exceeds our safety limits, we will contact you as early as possible to reschedule. We still paddle in light rain—Auckland’s scenery is beautiful in all conditions, and we provide all the equipment required to keep you safe and dry!

Do I need to be a strong swimmer to join a tour?

You do not need to know how to swim to join us. However, you should be comfortable being in the water while wearing a life jacket in the rare event of a capsize. We want you to feel safe while your guide assists you in re-entering your boat. Every guest is provided with a high-quality life jacket and a full safety briefing.

Do you offer multilingual guides?

Yes! Each season we hire staff from around the world. In 2025, we are proud to offer tours in French, Spanish, and Mandarin. Please get in touch directly to request a tour in a language other than English.

Biosecurity & Cancellations

What are the “Pest-Free” requirements for Rangitoto and Motukorea?

We are committed to conservation. All guests must follow Check, Clean, Close protocols: Ensure footwear and bags are free of seeds, soil, and insects (especially ants and rodents) before boarding to protect these island sanctuaries.

What is your cancellation policy?

• Day Tours: Full refund if cancelled at least 48 hours in advance.
• For our full terms and conditions, please click here.