Riverhead ‘Paddle to the Pub’ kayak trip
A classic Kiwi adventure, perfect for groups of friends or whānau!
Enjoy a leisurely, self-guided paddle along the sheltered upper reaches of the Waitematā Harbour to the iconic Riverhead Historic Tavern. This scenic journey offers calm waters, lush mangroves, and ever-changing views—ideal for novice kayakers or those simply looking for a relaxed day out.
The adventure begins at Herald Island with a safety briefing from our qualified team. From there, your group will kayak upstream at your own pace, arriving at the Riverhead Tavern in time for a well-earned meal and drink. Depending on tide times and your preference, we can also arrange a reverse route, starting at Riverhead and paddling down to Herald Island, where our team will meet you and shuttle you back to the pub.
This tour is available by request and requires a minimum group size of 8 people. It’s great for after-work outings, weekend catch-ups, or a daytime escape from the city.
Please note:
Tours are tide-dependent and can only operate within three hours either side of high tide.
What to Bring: Camera, Water bottle, Sun protection, T-shirt (No Cotton), Shorts or leggings to kayak in (No Cotton), Sun glasses and hat, Warm top, Medication
Cost
Price from $110 per person (min group size)
Duration
Duration one way: 2 hours including safety briefing
Start Time
Start time varies due to the tide
Start Location
Historic Riverhead Tavern and we transport you down to Herald Island to start the kayaking
Fitness Required
This tour is relaxed and suitable for beginners.
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“Safety instructions clear and sufficient with equipment of a high standard. We were taken to herald island by car and then a lovely calm paddle for about an hour and a half down to theRiverhead pub. Recommended.”
Reviewed May 2018
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“Great day out on the Riverhead tavern with 20 of my work colleagues. Its a great way to build up an appetite before having a few beers and lunch at the Riverhead Tavern. The gear was good condition, easy with them transport down to Herald Island and ending at the Tavern is a good idea. Fun afternoon.”
Reviewed February 2016
Faqs
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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.
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Is this tour catered?
No, but food can be ordered at the Riverhead Historic Tavern which you can enjoy while drinking an ale or two.
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When do we depart?
As this is tidal the tour can only depart 3 hours before or after high tide. It is possible to kayak from Riverhead down to Herald island where we pick you up in our minivans and transport you back to Tavern.
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How many people can go on the tour?
6 people minimum are required for this tour to operate (not only from your particular group) and we can cater to up to 40 people.
What you need to bring
What is provided?
We kit you out with all the specialist paddling gear including buoyancy aid, spray skirt, spray jacket, thermals and a dry bag for your camera. Kayaking is a water sport and you will get a little wet while kayaking.
What to bring?
- Camera
- Water bottle
- Sun protection
- T-shirt (No Cotton)
- Shorts or leggings to kayak in (No Cotton).
- Sun glasses and hat
- Warm top
- Medication
Meeting point
Historic Riverhead Tavern and we transport you down to Herald Island to start the kayaking
– Get Directions
Tour Start Location
This tour starts from the Historic Riverhead Tavern located at 33 York Terrace, Riverhead. There is lots of free car parking.
Meeting point
Historic Riverhead Tavern and we transport you down to Herald Island to start the kayaking
– Get Directions
