Two day Motuihe Island Hopping Kayak Tour

Faqs

• Can I bring my phone, GoPro or camera?

  Absolutely! We encourage guests to capture their adventure and the incredible scenery along the way.

  You’re welcome to bring your phone, GoPro, camera or other photography equipment on the tour. We provide dry bags to store your belongings safely inside the kayak while you’re paddling.

  If you’d like to use your phone during the tour, we recommend bringing a waterproof case or pouch for added protection. There is also a pocket on your life jacket, making it easy to keep your phone close at hand for quick photo opportunities.

  Please note that using your phone or camera while kayaking is entirely at your own risk. Although conditions are often calm, sea kayaking is an adventure activity and electronics can be damaged if they’re dropped or exposed to water.

  There are plenty of opportunities to stop and take photos throughout the tour, and our guides are always happy to help take pictures of you and your group.

• Are there any physical requirements to join your guided kayak tours?

  • Our guided sea kayak tours are designed for beginners and no previous kayaking experience is required. However, all participants must meet a few minimum safety requirements to ensure they can take part safely and comfortably.

    • Weight & Size: Participants must weigh 120 kg (265 lb) or less and be able to fit comfortably into our sea kayaks, which have a seat width of approximately 65 cm (25.5 inches). This also ensures our guides can safely assist guests in the unlikely event of a capsize.
    • Mobility & Endurance: You should be able to paddle and remain seated in a kayak for up to 45 minutes at a time without getting out to stretch. Our tours involve moderate physical activity and may require getting in and out of the kayak from the shoreline or a beach.
    • English Language: All tours are conducted in English, and participants must have a basic understanding of spoken English so they can understand the mandatory safety briefing, follow instructions from their guide, and know what to do in an emergency. Spanish-speaking guides are available on request (subject to availability), and we also provide Mandarin safety resources to help Mandarin-speaking guests better understand our safety procedures.

    If you have any questions about your suitability for one of our guided kayak tours in Auckland, please contact us before booking. We’re happy to discuss your individual circumstances and recommend the most suitable experience.

• How can you support those with disabilities?

  We are committed to making our tours accessible to everyone. If you or someone in your group has physical or mental disabilities, please contact our team in advance of your trip to ensure we can cater to your needs. For example, we can provide tandem kayaks for those who need support paddling, and we can offer private tours to ensure the experience runs at a comfortable pace. Your enjoyment and safety are our top priorities.

• Are there any biosecurity restrictions when visiting the Hauraki Gulf islands?

  Yes. Many of the islands we visit in the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, including Rangitoto Island and Motukorea (Browns Island), are protected conservation areas where introduced pests can have devastating impacts on native wildlife.

  As a Qualmark Gold Sustainable Tourism Business and a Pest Free Warrant Certified Operator, Auckland Sea Kayaks is committed to protecting these special places and follows strict biosecurity procedures on every tour.

  Before your tour, we ask all guests to help keep the islands pest-free by following these simple steps:

  • Check your bags, clothing and footwear for insects, rodents or other pests.
  • Clean your footwear and gear, removing any soil, seeds or plant material.
  • Close all bags and containers securely before departing for the island.

  These simple actions help protect some of New Zealand’s most threatened native wildlife, including seabirds, reptiles, insects and unique coastal ecosystems.

  Please note that Department of Conservation or Auckland Council rangers may carry out random biosecurity inspections before or after landing on some islands.

  For more information about protecting Auckland’s pest-free islands, visit www.treasureislands.co.nz.

  Why biosecurity matters

  The Hauraki Gulf islands are internationally significant conservation areas and are home to species found in very few places elsewhere in New Zealand. Every visitor plays an important role in preventing pests from reaching these islands, helping preserve them for future generations.

• How fit do I need to be?

  Moderate level of fitness required. Must be able to kayak up to four hours a day.

• Is this tour catered?

  Yes, if you opt for the all-inclusive tour.

  If you opt for the self-catered tour, bring your own food, drinks and sleeping bat + mat.

  We provide all the tents (2 person), cooking equipment and necessary kayaking equipment.