Kayaking On Waitangi Estuary

OVERVIEW

Paddle the tranquil waters of Waitangi Estuary on a scenic kayaking tour that visits mangroves and waterfalls. Your seasoned guide will walk with you across the Waitangi Bridge to the kayak launch for a safety briefing and gear-up before heading out into the estuary waters. Working your way through this beautiful natural setting, you’ll glide by a low forest of mangrove trees, their glistening root systems protruding out from beneath the water to create a crucial breeding ground for many species of small fish. This protected habitat is a crucial component of not only the estuary but the whole Bay of Islands ecosystem. After a time, you’ll reach Haruru Falls, surrounded on one side by the lush Waitangi Forest. The falls themselves, while not especially high, are nonetheless a spectacular sight when seen from the water like this, especially if any recent rainfall has added oomph to their volume. Take a rest break and enjoy a cup of tea served at a nearby picnic area before returning to the ship via van.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy a guided paddle by tandem kayak into Waitangi Estuary, where the river joins the bay.
• Glide along normally calm waters past ranks of deep green mangroves whose exposed prop roots create an essential breeding habitat for small fish.
• Reach the end of the estuary at Haruru Falls, not always mighty but always magnificent from the water.
• Step out onto land and relax awhile over supplied a cup of tea at a picnic area near the falls.
• Refreshed, make the return via van to Waitangi Wharf.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear a bathing suit under shorts or a cover-up; bring a jacket in case conditions change.
• Waterproof beach shoes or flip-flops are recommended.
• Bring a towel, hat, sunglasses and sunscreen as needed.