Water Sports in Akaroa

Akaroa water sports are mostly about the sea around Banks Peninsula: guided sea kayaking beneath volcanic cliffs, paddling into sea caves and watching for wildlife from the water. Akaroa Marine Reserve covers part of the harbour and Pōhatu Marine Reserve sits a short distance away, so the water here is as much about seals, penguins and dolphins as it is about the paddling. It is one part of the wider things to do in Akaroa.

Sea kayaking in Akaroa

Sea kayaking is the main way onto the water. Guided trips follow the volcanic cliffs of the Pōhatu Marine Reserve, past rock stacks and reefs, into deep sea caves and under an island arch, and the guides supply the kayaks, life jackets and dry bags. Sea kayaking tours in Akaroa range from a short paddle to a full day, and evening combos end with a penguin visit.

On a trip like the Half Day Sea Kayaking Safari, a 4WD van collects the group from Akaroa and stops for photos along the way, with commentary on the area.

Wildlife you can see from the water

The Department of Conservation describes Akaroa Marine Reserve, established in 2014, as a hotspot for Hector's dolphins, the world's smallest dolphin. Seals, penguins and seabirds also use the reserve, and Little Penguins nest at Pōhatu.

Seals, penguins and dolphins can become distressed or aggressive when approached, so the Department of Conservation asks visitors to keep the required distance. A guide handles that on the water.

Combining a paddle with a hike or an evening

Longer days stack more in. A paddle can follow a walk through ancient forest down to the water, as on the Full Day Hike and Kayak Combo, or be paired with a visit to the Little Penguin colony, as on the Pōhatu sea kayaking and scenic 4WD safari. Evening combos such as the Kayak and Evening Tour Combo finish with a guided penguin visit.

For a day on the harbour, Akaroa tours take in wildlife cruises, and 4WD safaris from Akaroa cover the gravel road out to Pōhatu.

Paddling conditions and what to wear

Weather on the peninsula changes quickly. The Department of Conservation warns of changeable weather and rogue waves around the marine reserve, which is a good reason to paddle with a guide.

Wear comfortable clothes you don't mind getting a little wet, and bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat. Start times shift between summer and winter, so check the departure time before planning the rest of the day.

Water sports and the rest of Akaroa

A morning paddle leaves the afternoon for the village, where French and British colonial buildings, galleries and cafés line the waterfront. Travelling with children? Younger kayakers are usually preferred from around 11 years old, and things to do in Akaroa with kids suit the rest of the family.

Frequently asked questions

Can you go sea kayaking in Akaroa?

Guided sea kayaking runs in Akaroa through the Pōhatu Marine Reserve, with trips from a half-day paddle to a full-day outing that adds a forest hike. Guides supply the kayaks, life jackets and safety gear.

Do you need experience to go sea kayaking in Akaroa?

No kayaking experience is needed for guided sea kayaking in Akaroa, because the guides lead the group. Children are generally preferred from around 11 years old and share a double kayak with an adult.

What wildlife lives around Akaroa?

The waters around Akaroa are home to Hector's dolphins, seals, penguins and seabirds. The Department of Conservation describes Akaroa Marine Reserve as a hotspot for Hector's dolphins, the world's smallest dolphin.

What should you wear for sea kayaking in Akaroa?

Wear comfortable, weather-suitable clothing that you don't mind getting a little wet, with sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat. Guided trips supply life jackets, dry jackets and spray decks.

Where do guided kayak trips in Akaroa start?

Guided kayak trips in Akaroa meet in the village, and a 4WD van takes the group to the bay. The road to Pōhatu Bay is steep, narrow and gravel, so it needs a 4WD.

Pick the length of paddle, add a hike or a penguin visit if you have the day, and Akaroa's water sports fit around the rest of the peninsula.