Hike and Kayak Combo

Akaroa, Canterbury Region

Hike and Kayak Combo

Ages 6+ • 8 hours • Great day of Adventure! • Includes Scenic 4WD and Kayaking

Walking Tour

Select participants and date

Date

Thu, Oct 16

Travelers

2

About This Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable day of adventure, starting with a scenic hike through ancient forests to Pohatu Bay, where you’ll discover stunning waterfalls and the sounds of native birds. After a relaxing break, dive into an exhilarating sea-kayaking safari to explore the vibrant marine life of Pohatu Marine Reserve.

Duration

8 Hours

Ages

Ages 6+

About

Looking for an active day? Join us for a full day of adventure combining a morning hike through endemic ancient forest down our private walking track to Pohatu bay and join our sea-kayaking safari in the afternoon to encounter Pohatu marine reserve wildlife.

After being picked up in Akaroa by our booking office you will be transported by 4WD mini-van to the beginning of a 3 hours hiking trail (regular to relaxed pace). With a map and instructions from your guide you will, at your leisure, walk down part of the famous Banks Track through ancient red beech tree forest and tree ferns to Pohatu bay.

Along the way discover many waterfalls and listen to native bird songs and visit the prehistoric forest of Tutakakahikura scenic reserve with trees over 400 years old.

Once arrived at Pohatu bay you will have access to a fully equipped kitchen and bathroom facilities to relax, eat and get ready for the afternoon sea-kayaking safaris starting at 12.45pm.

Tour Includes

Scenic drive by 4WD mini vans from Akaroa
Photos stops along the way with commentary about the area
Fully guided by experienced staff
All kayaking gear (life jackets, dry jackets, spray deck, dry bags for cameras)

Gives you the chance to learn more about Pōhatu Penguins while still having time to explore our historic town.

If you have young children:

We prefer that children are at least 6 years of age. All customers are placed in safe, double kayaks and each child will be paired with an adult. Please keep in mind that your guide has the final say as to whether or not it is safe for you and your child to kayak. This can vary depending on sea conditions, personal fitness and kayaking abilities. Toddlers and/or infants are NOT allowed regardless of sea conditions or personal ability. Please notify us ahead of time if time if you have a child.

Note:

On certain days with certain weather conditions, we might only be able to run the tour with experienced kayakers. If, due to your lack of experience or because of your child(ren)'s ages and capacities, the guide advises that you cannot join the tour, we please ask for your understanding. If this were to be the case, we would either offer you a full refund or to join one of our nature tours depending on availability.

Adventure Tips

Pack waterproof layers

Weather on Banks Peninsula can change quickly, so bring a raincoat to stay comfortable during the hike and kayaking.

Wear sturdy hiking shoes

The trail includes uneven forest terrain; good footwear will protect your feet and provide traction.

Bring reusable water bottles

Refillable water is available at Pohatu Bay’s communal kitchen, so stay hydrated without single-use plastic bottles.

Apply reef-safe sunscreen

Protect your skin and the marine environment while kayaking in sunny conditions around Pohatu Marine Reserve.

Local Insights

Wildlife

New Zealand fur seals
Fantail birds native to the red beech forest

History

Banks Peninsula’s volcanic origins shape its dramatic terrain; the area has deep Maori cultural significance and was established as a scenic reserve to protect its ecosystems.

Conservation

The tour operators focus on minimal group sizes and use well-maintained paths to protect fragile forest and marine environments, ensuring low impact tourism.

Explore Pohatu Bay: Hike Ancient Forests and Kayak the Marine Reserve Near Akaroa

Difficulty

Duration

Fitness Level

Overview