Paddle beneath the stars on a two-hour kayak tour that reveals the glowing magic of bioluminescent plankton. Canoe & Kayak offers this unforgettable experience just north of Auckland in the protected Long Bay Okura Marine Reserve.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for beginners and moderate fitness; participants should be able to sit upright in a kayak for extended periods.
Wildlife
History
The Long Bay Okura Marine Reserve was established to protect native marine habitats and species and supports traditional Maori fishing grounds.
Conservation
Canoe & Kayak operates with minimal environmental impact in this protected reserve, supporting local marine life health through responsible guiding practices and education.
Canoe & Kayak
Paddle beneath the stars on a two-hour kayak tour that reveals the glowing magic of bioluminescent plankton. Canoe & Kayak offers this unforgettable experience just north of Auckland in the protected Long Bay Okura Marine Reserve.
Canoe & Kayak is a New Zealand-based paddling operator offering guided sea kayak tours and structured kayaking courses. The company runs skill-building courses on the North Shore and guided day trips across the Hauraki Gulf, focusing on safety, technique, and wildlife appreciation. Canoe & Kayak's core offerings include a North Shore Kayaking Course that teaches self-rescue, paddling techniques, and risk management; a full-day Tiritiri Matangi Sea Kayak Tour to a wildlife sanctuary with opportunities to see native birds, dolphins, and penguins; a Bioluminescence Kayak Tour that explores glowing marine life on a two-hour night paddle; and a three-session Kayak Development Course designed to advance paddling skills in varied conditions.
Instruction is delivered by experienced paddling instructors who emphasize safe progression and practical skills for real-world conditions. Equipment is provided or recommended per trip requirements, and courses include shore-based and on-water practice. Route choices and timings reflect seasonal considerations and local conservation guidelines, particularly for visits to Tiritiri Matangi, a protected island reserve.
Canoe & Kayak positions itself for a wide range of paddlers: beginners seeking foundational skills, intermediate paddlers refining technique, and nature-focused visitors wanting guided wildlife experiences. The operator’s combination of formal courses and interpretive tours aims to build competence and promote responsible outdoor recreation. Clear trip summaries, skill-focused curricula, and local route knowledge support informed booking decisions and safe, memorable paddling experiences. Bookings are structured with clear pre-trip information, safety briefings, and skill-level guidance so participants can choose the right trip with confidence and equipment advice provided promptly.
Tours Offered
4
Four distinct guided trips and courses
Key Destination
Tiritiri Matangi
Protected island sanctuary visits
Suitable For
All levels
Beginners to intermediate paddlers
Duration Range
2 hours – full-day
Short night paddles to full-day tours
Secure a spot on a North Shore course or a guided Hauraki Gulf sea kayak adventure today.
Arrive Early for Preparation
Plan to arrive 15 minutes before start time so guides can outfit you with gear and review safety instructions.
Dress in Quick-Dry Layers
Wear moisture-wicking, warm layers and bring a waterproof jacket; temperatures can drop sharply at night on the water.
Use Provided Safety Equipment
Always wear your personal flotation device (PFD) and use the supplied waterproof torch as instructed for nighttime safety.
Waterproof Your Essentials
Secure phones, cameras, and medications in waterproof bags to protect against splashes and unexpected wetness.
Waterproof Jacket
Protects against wind and dampness during cooler evenings on the water.
fall
Quick-Dry Clothing
Keeps you comfortable if you get splashed or wet from the kayak.
summer
Water Shoes
Provides traction and protects feet when launching and landing on rocky or sandy shores.
Warm Layers (Fleece or Wool)
Adds insulation during chilly night paddles, especially in shoulder seasons.
spring