Kayaking

Kayaking

Keen for a Paddle?

The Eastern Bay of Plenty is a superb area for kayaking, with many beautiful rivers and lakes, and a stunning coastline.  Even the weather is ideal, with light winds and mild temperatures for most of the year.  Whether you're a beginner or highly experienced, a family or a group, there are trips here for you.  Enjoy the fun.

Safety on the Water

Safe conditions: Rivers in flood and rough seas are dangerous, so always check the weather forecast and water conditions. Tell someone where you are going. At all times, beware of river hazards like overhanging willows or submerged logs. If conditions are marginal DO NOT kayak.
 
Safe company: always paddle rivers with someone who has experience. Never paddle rivers or open water alone. Make sure children stay under close adult supervision. Make sure you all have the skills to self-rescue.
 
Safe gear/clothing: Wear a life jacket/PFD (personal floatation device), ideally with an attached whistle. On rivers with rapids, wear a kayak/bike helmet and wetsuit booties or other footwear. Ensure you have warm clothing. On rivers with rapids, you are advised to take a throw rope, and repair tape for Kevlar or fiberglass kayaks.
 

Protect our rivers – ALWAYS clean your boat and gear

Didymo (Didymosphenia geminata) is an invasive alga from overseas that has infested many rivers in the South Island. It sticks to stones and forms a thick brown mat, changing river ecology and affecting native fish, plants and insects. Didymo spoils great kayak spots!
 
Didymo does not appear to have spread to the North Island, but this is not assured. A single drop of infected water can spread the alga. So BEFORE you paddle in our area, or any other region of New Zealand, it is essential you take these precautions:
  • Fully rinse/spray the inside/outside of your boat and your paddle with diluted dishwashing liquid
  • Dunk all clothing in a bucket with the same diluted dishwashing liquid
  • Use one cup of dishwashing liquid to 5 litres of water
  • Alternatively, allow your boat and all gear/clothing to fully dry (not even damp inside your boat) and wait at least another 48 hours before use
  • Find out more: www.ebop.govt.nz and search ‘Didymo’.

Other Useful Information

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KG Kayaks
KG Kayaks, Whakatane, New Zealand
Kayaking adventures at Whale Island, Ohiwa Harbour and Otarawairere Bay. Guided tours and hires for independent travelers, family groups, businesses and schools. 
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Ohiwa Harbour

Ohiwa Harbour offers excellent tidal kayaking and fishing with fantastic views of the surrounding countryside.  
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Waiotahe River Entrance

Paddle around the Waiotahe River 
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Tarawera River

Kayak down the Tarawera river in Kawerau. 
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Kohi Point

Kayak around Kohi Point from Whakatane to Ohope. 
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Rangitaiki River

A downstream run on the Rangitaiki river from the powerstation at the base of Lake Aniwhenua towards Lake Matahina. 
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Lake Matahina

The sparkling blue waters of Lake Matahina, 30km from Whakatane, sit between steep bush-clad hills. 
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Whakatane River Kayaking

Paddle down the Whakatane River from the Pekatahi Bridge down to the centre of Whakatane. 
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Waioeka River

The beautiful Waiokea River 
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