• City Lights Night Kayak Tour

City Lights Night Kayak Tour

Discover the magic of Auckland after dark on our City Lights Night Kayak Tour. Begin your journey at St Mary’s Bay, just a short walk from Viaduct Harbour, Wynyard Quarter, and Central Auckland. Paddle alongside Westhaven Marina with the iconic Sky Tower glowing against the setting sun.

This is the perfect way to kick off a date night or an evening adventure in the city. Enjoy the city lights from the best seat in the house—your kayak. As Auckland’s first-ever inner-city night kayak tour, it offers unforgettable perspectives of the city, combining the serenity of nighttime paddling with the vibrant energy of Auckland’s illuminated landmarks.

Tour Highlights:

  • Stunning City Views: Marvel at the Sky Tower and city skyline, brilliantly lit against the night sky and reflecting on the tranquil waters of the harbour.
  • Marvel at the City of Sails: Get up close to the superyachts and worksites that make Auckland famous. Experience why Auckland is the premier destination for events like the America’s Cup and Sail GP.
  • Paddle Under the Harbour Bridge: Glide beneath the Auckland Harbour Bridge and enjoy the spectacular Vector Light displays during event weeks. Discover the bridge’s rich history and take in a view like no other.

Explore Viaduct Harbour, Jellicoe Harbour or North Wharf – subject to the marine and viaduct event schedules.

Why You’ll Love The City Lights Night Kayak Tour:
This tour is perfect for those looking to experience Auckland in a completely new way. The combination of serene nighttime paddling, vibrant city lights, and our knowledgeable guides make this an adventure you won’t soon forget. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the City Lights Night Kayak Tour offers a unique perspective of Auckland that is truly unforgettable.

Book Now:
Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind experience. Spaces are limited, so book your spot today and see Auckland in a whole new light!

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Tour Cost

Cost

From $118 NZD per person.

Duration

Duration

2 Hours

Start location

Start Location

Z Pier, Westhaven Marina. More

Fitness required

Fitness Required

Moderate. We will spend up to 1.5 hours kayaking.

  • “A delightful guide who made us feel welcome, safe and informed and timed our activities impeccably so that we caught sunset at the top, and moon-rise on the harbour. The Sunset Tour was the highlight of our trip to New Zealand.”

    Fay on TripAdvisor

  • “My boyfriend and I did the sunset kayak tour to Rangitoto island a few days ago – one of the BEST decisions we’ve made on our NZ trip! Our tour leader Eric was a knockout! He was warm and friendly from the start, and made us feel safe the whole way across to Rangitoto and up to the summit, providing knowledgeable commentary all the way. we saw the most beautiful sunset over Auckland city and the harbour. Once we were back down at the dock Eric cooked us up a lovely dinner that had us almost too full to kayak back to the city. as someone who has kayaked maybe once or twice in her life, i’d say this venture was a decent challenge for me, especially in the middle of the New Zealand winter. So be prepared to work for your lovely sunset views – but be very assured that they are worth it!”

    Shannon on TripAdvisor

  • “Kayaking at night feels daringly intrepid – as if we’re secret agents on a covert mission. For the next hour we paddle towards the city's twinkling lights under a sky pinpricked with stars. It’s my favourite part of the trip. The only sound is the rhythmic splash of the paddles in the water. No one speaks, not even my sister.”

    Rob McFarland – Rough Guide to New Zealand

Faqs

  • How long is the walk from Auckland CBD to the departure point at Z Pier?

    The walk from Auckland CBD to Westhaven Marina, Z Pier, takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on your starting location and walking speed. It’s a scenic route, passing through the Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter.

  • How much does an Uber cost from Auckland CBD to the departure point?

    An Uber ride from Auckland CBD to Westhaven Marina, Z Pier, typically costs between NZD $10 to $15, depending on the time of day and demand. Prices may vary, so it’s a good idea to check the app for a more accurate fare estimate closer to your tour time.

  • Can I bring my own camera?

    Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own camera or phone, but please ensure it’s waterproof or in a waterproof case, as there’s a chance of getting wet.

  • Do I need any kayaking experience for the City Lights Night Kayak Tour?

    No, this tour is suitable for all fitness levels, and no prior kayaking experience is necessary. Our professional guides will provide a safety briefing and basic paddling instruction before we set off.

  • What should I wear on the City Lights Night Kayak Tour?

    Please wear warm clothing, water shoes, or sandals, and bring a sense of adventure! All necessary kayaking equipment and safety gear will be provided. A light snack is also included.

  • Where does the City Lights Night Kayak Tour depart from?

    The City Lights Night Kayak Tour departs from Westhaven Marina, Z Pier, which is within walking distance from Auckland CBD, Viaduct Harbour, and Wynyard Quarter.

  • Is the City Lights Night Kayak Tour suitable for children?

    Yes, the City Lights Night Kayak Tour is suitable for children, provided they meet the minimum age requirement of 12 years old and are accompanied by an adult.

  • What happens if the weather is bad?

    Safety is our top priority. If weather conditions are deemed unsafe for kayaking, we will either reschedule the tour or provide a full refund.

  • Will I get wet during the City Lights Night Kayak Tour?

    There’s a chance you may get a little wet, especially your feet and lower legs. It’s part of the fun! We recommend bringing a change of clothing just in case.

  • 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.

  • How much kayaking experience do I need?

    This tour is set up for someone who has no kayaking experience. Your guide runs over paddling techniques before heading out onto the sea and gives you tips while paddling.

    In saying this, our Sunset Kayak tour requires you to be able to paddle for up to 75 minutes and requires you to walk 2.4 km while gaining 271 meters in elevation.

What You Need to Bring:

While we provide a small sweet treat during the tour, we recommend eating beforehand to keep your energy levels up.

What is Provided?

We provide all the specialist paddling gear, including a buoyancy aid, spray skirt, spray jacket, thermals, and a dry bag for your camera. Please note that kayaking is a water sport, so expect to get a little wet.

What to Bring:

  • Camera
  • Water bottle
  • Warm clothing (a top layer for the evening)
  • Shorts or leggings to kayak in (no cotton)
  • Sport shoes or flip-flops suitable for kayaking
  • Any personal medication

Auckland Sea Kayaks
Z Pier – Westhaven Marina
Auckland 1071
New Zealand
View on Google Maps

Tour Start Location

The tour departs from Westhaven Marina, Z Pier, which is within walking distance from Auckland CBD, Viaduct Harbour, and Wynyard Quarter. 

Meeting point
Z Pier, Westhaven Marina
– Get Directions

OUR PARTNERS

#aucklandseakayaks

Another epic group of students completed their Bronze Adventurous Journey with Auckland Sea Kayaks this week. Their adventure included a jaunt on the Puhoi River before exploring some rock gardens and sea caves. #dukeofedinburgh @dukeofednz. Thanks @wildkiwi_outdoor @beny.seakayak @benditto_ for your guidance and leadership 🙏 🤙
🌙✨ Have you ever kayaked at night? This is bucket list level 100! Join us for unforgettable nighttime adventures on either the City Lights Night Kayak Tour or our stunning Sunset Tour to Rangitoto Island. Paddle under the stars with the city lights guiding your way! 🌊🏙️

Get in touch to learn more! 🛶💫 #AucklandSeaKayaks  #BucketList #nzmustdo  Visit Auckland 100% Pure New Zealand
These students are working towards their Duke of Edinburgh's Hillary Award  and spent their school holidays on an adventurous journey through the stunning Mahurangi Region with Auckland Sea Kayaks. They enjoyed glassy sunsets, forged lasting friendships on the water, and gained invaluable outdoor skills. A journey to remember! @dukeofednz
A few scenes from Rangitoto Island on 5 September, 2024. Great evening for a summit hike.
A rewarding week on the water with our Auckland Sea Kayaks tribe. A big welcome to @beny.seakayak,  and thanks to @westlakegirls_official and @pakcoll for the Outdoor Ed adventures 💯🛶
🌊 Te Wiki o te Reo Māori: Celebrating Place Names in Tāmaki Makaurau 🌿

Throughout the week, we’re uncovering the stories of place names that are significant to both our journeys and our connection to Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland).

Today, we explore the Hauraki Gulf / Tīkapa Moana Marine Park.
Hauraki translates to "north wind" – a name that reflects how the gulf is only exposed to open sea from the north. Hau means wind, and raki means north. 🌬️

According to Māori legend, Ureia, a taniwha in the form of a whale, protects these waters. 🐋

Let’s embrace the rich history of these beautiful places together! #TeWikiOTeReoMāori #TīkapaMoana #HaurakiGulf #AucklandSeaKayaks
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