New Zealand Northland Coast Kayaking

Overview

Paddle the Bay of Islands and Northland coast of New Zealand — 144 islands scattered across a subtropical sea with dolphins, kingfishers, and pohutukawa trees overhanging sea caves. The multi-day kayak tour links deserted beaches, Maori pa sites, and snorkelling stops in the bay's own sheltered reserves. Further down the Northland coast, a boat day out of Tutukaka reaches the Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve — rated by Jacques Cousteau among the world's top ten dive sites — as a dive add-on rather than a paddling leg, since the islands lie 23 km offshore and landings are prohibited. Whales and orcas pass through in winter. The water temperature is comfortable from November to April.

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Prefilled for 1 November 2026 — the next best-season window. Search on partner sites — opens in a new tab.