Explore. Paddle. Discover.
Explore Lake Wānaka from the water with Paddle Wānaka. Hire a kayak or paddleboard from our beachfront location in central Wānaka, join a guided kayak tour, or set off on your own self-guided adventure. With spectacular alpine scenery, crystal-clear water and islands to explore, there’s no better way to experience Wānaka.
Paddle Wānaka can cater to all levels, ages, and abilities making their kayak or paddle boarding trips a fantastic family-friendly activity. We offer a full range of courses that we can tailor to suit at our Paddle School.
Paddle Wānaka also provides Group Programmes for schools, Instruction and Tailor-made Trips. There is something for everyone to enjoy!
We are proud of our high safety standards and service levels that we install in all of our activities. We hold all required licenses and permits to operate in the regions that we explore.
Whether you want to explore independently, join a guided tour or take on a longer self-guided adventure, there’s a Paddle Wānaka experience to suit you.
Explore at your own pace. Hire single or double kayaks and paddleboards for 1, 2 or 3 hours to explore Roy's Bay, Ruby Island and the Wanaka waterfront including the Wanaka Tree
From $35/hr
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A relaxed guided introduction to Lake Wanaka. Paddle through the scenic waters of Roy's Bay with a local guide. Visit locations like the Wanaka Tree and Ruby Island.
3 hours | Guided | From $149
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Make a day of it. Starting with a morning paddle and follow the shorelines of Lake Wanaka on our self-guided one-way kayak adventure returning back to the Wanaka waterfront.
4 hours | Self - guided | From $149
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From our central Wānaka waterfront location, we’re all about making it easy to get out on the lake and enjoy the best of Wānaka. Here’s what makes Paddle Wānaka different.
Right on the Wānaka waterfront - Launch directly from our beachfront location in central Wānaka.
Something for everyone - From a relaxed paddle with the family to a guided kayak tour or a longer self-guided adventure.
Local knowledge - Our team knows Lake Wānaka and can help you choose the right experience for your time, ability and the day's conditions.
Quality equipment - We provide quality kayaks, paddleboards and safety equipment so you can concentrate on enjoying the lake.
Safety first - We operate with a strong focus on safety and provide guidance and equipment appropriate to the experience and conditions.
The Magic of Lake Wanaka
Lake Wānaka is one of New Zealand's most spectacular alpine lakes, surrounded by mountains and crystal-clear water. While Wānaka is famous for its hiking and mountain scenery, the lake offers a completely different perspective from the water.
VIEW ACTIVITIESWhat are the minimum age requirements?
To use the equipment by yourself you must be over 16 years old, If you are under 16 you must be accompanied by a caregiver or supervised from the beach by a caregiver. We have life jackets to fit from 12 months.
Do you need to be able to swim?
You do not need to be able to swim. Our kayaks (both sea kayaks and sit-on-top kayaks) are all quite stable, and our staff will help you find the right boat for your experience level, but there is always a risk that paddlers might fall into the water. We have life jackets which will help you float, and we ask non-swimmers to stay close to the lakefront so we can help if you get into difficulty. Just make sure you let the staff at the beach know!
What happens if the weather isn't suitable?
Safety comes first. Lake conditions can change, and we may adjust, postpone or cancel an activity when conditions aren't suitable. Our team will advise you if conditions affect your booking.
Can I kayak to the Wānaka Tree?
Yes. The Wānaka Tree can be reached by kayak from the waterfront, although the distance and conditions should be considered when planning your paddle.
Can I kayak to Ruby Island?
Yes. Ruby Island is one of the popular destinations accessible by kayak from Wānaka. The time required depends on your route, conditions and how long you want to spend exploring.
What should I bring kayaking?
Bring suitable clothing for the conditions, sun protection, water and anything else you may need during your time on the lake. We provide the kayak, paddle and required safety equipment.
What are the weight restrictions?
Double kayaks have a weight limit of 200kg. Single kayaks are 100kgs and paddleboards are 150kg.
Do I need prior kayaking experience?
Not at all. Bay Explorer is suitable for first-time paddlers as well as more experienced kayakers. Your guide will help you get comfortable on the water and adjust the pace and route to suit the group.
How long is the Bay Explorer kayak tour?
Bay Explorer is a 3-hour guided kayak tour on Lake Wānaka. This includes time to paddle, explore, relax and enjoy the scenery. Please allow a little extra time before the tour for check-in and briefing.
What happens if the weather isn't suitable?
Safety comes first. We assess the weather and lake conditions before departure and may adjust the route, postpone or cancel the tour if conditions aren't suitable. If we cancel due to weather, you’ll have the option to rebook or receive a full refund.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable active clothing that can get damp, a warm layer, sun protection and a water bottle. We provide your kayak, paddle, life jacket and required safety equipment, as well as a splash jacket and spray skirt where appropriate.
Will I fall in?
Our kayaks are stable and suitable for beginners, so falling in is unlikely. Your guide will help you learn how to use and manoeuvre your kayak safely and will be there to assist if you have any difficulties during the tour.
Can we have a private tour?
Yes. Private Bay Explorer tours can be arranged on request. Please contact us to discuss your preferred date and group size.
Where does the Bay Explorer Kayak tour go?
The tour explores Roy’s Bay and the surrounding shoreline of Lake Wānaka. Depending on the weather and lake conditions, your guide will choose the best route and may include views of iconic locations such as the Wānaka Tree and Ruby Island.
Do I need prior kayaking experience?
As you are self guided you’ll be paddling unsupervised so yes, this activity is best suited to paddlers with prior experience. You should be confident paddling for a few hours, understand basic safety, and be comfortable on the water without a guide including swimming.
Do you need to be able to swim?
As you are unsupervised on this tour swimming ability is a must.Our kayaks (both sea kayaks and sit-on-top kayaks) are all quite stable, and our staff will help you find the right boat for your experience level, but there is always a risk that paddlers might fall into the water.
Is transport included?
Yes! We’ll drive you, your group, and all gear to your custom drop-off point. Then you paddle your way back — no need to backtrack.
What should I bring?
We recommend: Swimwear or quick-dry clothing, a towel, sunblock, hat, sunglasses (with a strap), water bottle and snacks, waterproof bag or phone case
How long does the Mission take?
The Mission is a 4-hour self-guided paddle. This includes time to explore, relax, and enjoy the journey back to Roys Bay. We recommend allowing a bit of extra time for check-in, briefing, and transport to your launch site.
Do I need to book in advance?
Bring suitable clothing for the conditions, sun protection, water and anything else you may need during your time on the lake. We provide the kayak, paddle and required safety equipment.
For urgent enquiries please email info@paddlewanaka.co.nz
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