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Double Kayak Hire on Lake Karapiro with Riverside Adventures Waikato - Hamilton

Double Kayak Hire on Lake Karapiro with Riverside Adventures Waikato

Piarereeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–6 hours

Fitness Level

Basic fitness sufficient; suitable for beginners comfortable with light physical activity

Overview

Paddle calm waters and navigate a limestone canyon on Lake Karapiro with reliable double kayak hire from Riverside Adventures Waikato. Perfect for newcomers and seasoned paddlers seeking a scenic, safe adventure.

Piarere, Waikato

Double Kayak Hire

Half & full day hire options available • Explore Lake Karapiro by kayak!

Water Activities

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About This Adventure

Experience the tranquility of Lake Karapiro as you kayak through its stunning waters and explore the enchanting Pokaiwhenua Stream canyon. Our stable sit-on kayaks ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure, complete with padded seats, paddles, and life jackets. Perfect for both seasoned paddlers and beginners seeking a memorable outdoor escape.

Explore Lake Karapiro on one of our kayaks!

Included

Single Kayak hire - very stable, easy to paddle. Explore Lake Karapiro & surrounding streams - especially up the canyon of the Pokaiwhenua Stream.

Sit-on kayaks designed for stability & safety Mission Flow with padded seat Paddles and leashes provided Personal Floatation Device provided Dry bags available

ITEM SPECIFIC CANCELLATION NOTES (hire charge continues until equipment returned to LDA base and no refund for early return)

On booking Hirer agrees to the following terms:

  1. Hirer warrants that all members of the party are suitably fit and experienced to use the equipment hired and LDA shall not accept any responsibility if the hirer and or any member of the hire party is unable to use the equipment for the full hire period. If hirer requires shuttle pick up due to not completing their hire, there will be an additional charge.

  2. Hirer responsible for the safe return of all equipment specified above undamaged and in the same good condition as upon commencement of hire.

  3. Hirer responsible for ensuring that all members of the hire party use the equipment properly and safely and in compliance with good safe practice and the laws of New Zealand including use of safety equipment (lifejackets etc (supplied by LDA)). Kayaks/SUP’s are not to be used after half an hour after sunset unless on a guided Glow Worm Tour.

  4. Children under 16 years to be always accompanied by an adult.

  5. Hire will be refused or revoked at any time if LDA determines at its sole discretion that the Hirer or any member of the hire party is under the influence of drink or drugs. (In that event no refund will be given.)

  6. Any damage, loss or injury to property/equipment/person not covered by New Zealand Accident Compensation or LDA insurance shall be the personal responsibility of the hirer for the whole of the hire party. (Terms of LDA insurance available upon request). In the event of late return, damage or loss to equipment hired the Hirer authorises LDA to charge the cost of additional hire charges and/or remedying loss or damage of equipment to the Hirer’s nominated credit card.

  7. At its sole discretion LDA will endeavour to accommodate delays or changes to the period of hire and/or tour due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, however, LDA is under no obligation to do so.

The Hirer is personally responsible for the safe and undamaged return of all equipment hired.

Adventure Tips

Wear a Life Jacket at All Times

Life jackets are included with your kayak hire—ensure you wear them continuously for safety on varying water conditions.

Check Weather Conditions Before Launch

Wind and rain can significantly change paddling difficulty on Lake Karapiro; consult the forecast and reschedule if needed.

Bring Waterproof Storage

Use dry bags available from Riverside Adventures to keep valuables and extra clothing safe and dry during your trip.

Start Upstream to Avoid Strong Currents

Launching near Pokaiwhenua Stream allows gentle currents and scenic paddling, especially beneficial for beginners.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • New Zealand fantail (pīwakawaka)
  • Freshwater eels (tuna)

History

Lake Karapiro is a man-made reservoir formed in the mid-20th century and remains an important site for hydroelectric power and recreation in Waikato.

Conservation

Riverside Adventures Waikato emphasizes low-impact paddling practices to protect native wildlife habitats and maintain water quality.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Waterproof Dry Bag

Essential

Keep your belongings dry and secure while on the water.

Sun Protection (Hat and Sunscreen)

Essential

Protect your skin during extended exposure to the sun on open water.

summer specific

Waterproof Jacket

Stay dry and comfortable in variable spring showers and wind.

spring specific

Thermal Layers

Maintain warmth during colder seasons when paddling on the lake.

winter specific