Lake Karapiro Kayak Trips

Kayaking on Lake Karapiro

If you’re looking for some great family fun out on Lake Karapiro, don’t miss out on one of our great kayaking adventures. We have three great offerings to choose from: You can enjoy a trip from Hora Hora back to The Boatshed, or enjoy paddling through the lake’s hidden waterfalls! And on our last option, you can embark on a guided adventure! Read below for more details.

Option 1 – Bridge to Boatshed

The trip starts at The Boatshed, where we get you all signed in and set for the trip. From here it’s a short drive up to Hora Hora, where you enter the water and start the 9-km paddle back downstream to The Boatshed. On the way, there are several great spots to stop and have a picnic or stretch the legs. There is also access to a hidden inlet that offers access to two waterfalls only accessible via kayak.

Draped in native ferns and hidden away from the main lake, the waterfalls are a great must-do detour on the way back to The Boatshed.

• The Boatshed can transport up to 6 people, so larger groups will need to pre-arrange transport up to Hora Hora with The Boatshed.
• The trip requires a moderate level of fitness.
• Bookings are essential.

Option 2 – The Hidden Karapiro Waterfalls

This is our most popular half-day trip and is the perfect daytime activity for the whole family. The trip starts from The Boatshed and takes you across Lake Karapiro to a hidden inlet. The inlet offers access to two waterfalls that are only accessible via kayak. The first waterfall takes you up a narrow section of canyon which is draped in native ferns and is the easier of the two to access. The second takes you further along the inlet to a place which at first glance seems like a dead end. After ducking under a few ferns, it opens up to a hidden stream that takes you through the forest to the more spectacular of the two waterfalls.

• This trip is non-guided and open to those aged 5 and over.
• You will be given a map of the area and shown the best way to get to the waterfalls.
• You will be given a brief kayak lesson and helped with the set-up of your kayak.
• There are a number of great spots to get out and swim or to have lunch along the way, so it pays to bring a towel and a change of clothes.
• Bookings are essential.

Option 3 – Guided Adventure/Activity Tour

Take a guided tour around Lake Karapiro in easy-to-use, super light sea kayaks. Visit stunning waterfalls, see the famous international rowing course, and get involved in a fun activity/game coordinated by your experienced guide.

This tour is located on sheltered Karapiro waters and is perfect for families, corporate groups, or a group of friends who want a tour with a twist.

The activity/game provided will be done on water. It will challenge you but is a fun way to try something different in a kayak, and it’s what makes this tour different to others.

• Guided tour
• Min. 4 people
• Max. 16 people
• Gear provided
• Bookings essential
• Subject to availability

What to Wear/Bring

• Dress appropriately for outdoor water activities NO JEANS.
• We recommend comfortable active clothing, a light raincoat, sun hat, sunblock, and a water bottle.