Two day Motuihe Island Hopping Kayak Tour
There is no better place in the Auckland region to start your kayaking tour than on the calm waters of St Heliers bay. As you paddle away from the crowds of the city, the diversity and beauty of the Hauraki Gulf will open up before you and time will slow to nature’s pace.
As you leave the bay, you will have a chance to visit Browns Island / Motukorea, where you will enjoy lunch, before heading to the jewel of the Hauraki Gulf, Motuihe Island.
Motuihe has some of the best sandy beaches of the gulf islands and these together with its clear waters and sheltered anchorages make it a stunning place to stay the night.
Motuihe is a natural sanctuary which is free of animal pests and home to the endangered New Zealand dotterel, saddleback, kakariki, kiwi, shore skinks and bellbirds. The diversity of rare birds, its location and natural beauty makes Motuihe a kayaker’s dream destination.
As night falls, you will enjoy a night of true kiwi camping on the north-eastern side of the island with all the gear you need being provided. From the campsite, you will have the chance to enjoy picturesque views over the Gulf, including Rangitoto and Motutapu, and watch the sun set over Auckland City.
On the morning of day two, you may have the chance to explore a little more for of Motuihe Island before taking down camp and heading over to Rangitoto, from where you will take a leisurely walk to the summit to experience stunning 360 degree panoramic views. Following lunch, you will then return to the sheltered water of St Heliers where you will once again meet the van which will take you back to the city.
For New Zealand Herald article click HERE.
Tours available on request. Please call for availability.
Cost
$645 all inclusive (two day price)
Duration
2 days
Start Time
Start 9.00 am & return next day at approx 3.30 pm
Start Location
Boat Ramp at 384 Tamaki Dr, St Heliers. More
Fitness Required
Moderate level of fitness required. Must be able to kayak up to four hours a day.
-
“Nic had created a flawless kayaking itinerary, provided for our every need and was a wealth of information about the islands.”
NZ Herald, 23rd March 2013
-
“Only one word does it really: awesome! Awesome harbour, awesome team (and especially our camp leader) and oh my, awesome (in a hushed, awed sort of way) Kiwi birds. Thanks Nic.”
Joanna sent via email 2016
Faqs
-
Do you have a weight or size limit for participants on your tours?
- Physical Requirements: Participants must be within a weight limit of 120 kg to fit comfortably and safely in our kayaks, which have a seat width of 65 cm. Guides must be able to safely assist clients back into a kayak in the rare event of a capsize.
- Endurance: Tours require participants to sit and paddle for up to 45 minutes without breaks for stretching or getting out of the kayak.
- Language Proficiency: All tours are conducted in English, and participants must be able to speak and understand English to follow safety instructions and engage with the guide.
-
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.
-
Do you offer city pickups and transport?
Yes, we provide pickups within Auckland city. To arrange this service, kindly specify your request in the booking form when making an online reservation. Our designated pickup spot is at the Auckland Museum Atrium (google map click here).
-
Are there any biosecurity restrictions?
Yes there is. Please help us keep Hauraki Gulf islands pest free. The Hauraki Gulf provides a haven for some of our most endangered animals and plants, including sea birds, tuatara and takahē.
Restrictions
Check your gear and help keep our islands pest-free. To keep these islands pest free. See what you need to do before joining Auckland Sea Kayaks on our trip please go to www.treasureislands.co.nz
When visiting pest free islands, or islands that are becoming pest-free, make sure you check your gear before you leave the mainland.
Protect our wildlife
Check – your gear for pests such as rodents and insects
Clean – footwear and gear, removing soil and seeds
Close – ensure your gear is zipped up (no open bags)
When you arrive on a pest-free island, you may be met by rangers to recheck your gear.
-
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.
What you need to bring
This tour has the option to be fully catered so please inform us if you have any dietary requirements.
What is provided?
We kit you out with all the specialist paddling gear including buoyancy aid, spray skirt, spray jacket, and a dry bags. We also provide tents, cooking equipment and sleeping bag + mats can be hired if required.
What to bring?
Packing list provided upon booking.
Auckland Sea Kayaks
384 Tamaki Drive
St Heliers
Auckland 1071
New Zealand
View on Google Maps
Tour Start Location
This tour starts from the St Heliers Bay central boat ramp located at 384 Tamaki Drive, St Heliers. There is lots of free car parking around St Heliers.
Meeting point
St Heliers Bay boat ramp
(Tamaki Drive, St Heliers, Auckland)
– Get Directions
