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

Read the full experience

Located on the Banks Peninsula in New Zealand’s Canterbury Region, the "Hike and Kayak Combo" offers an immersive eight-hour adventure that perfectly blends the land and sea’s richest natural experiences. Departing from Akaroa, a charming harbor town with French colonial history, this trip takes you through some of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes—beginning with a tranquil hike along a private section of the renowned Banks Track through native ancient forest to Pohatu Bay. This hike isn’t just any walk in the woods. You’ll traverse a lush forest dominated by towering red beech trees and giant tree ferns, some aged over 400 years, deep within the Tutakakahikura Scenic Reserve. The forest floor is alive with the sounds of native birds, and you’ll encounter several cascading waterfalls, offering moments perfect for reflection and photography. This self-guided trail lets you soak in the serene atmosphere at your own pace, winding down from the hills to the secluded Pohatu Bay. Once you reach Pohatu Bay, you’ll find a fully equipped communal kitchen and bathroom facilities—ideal for a relaxing lunch break before the afternoon portion of your journey begins. Here, adventure shifts gears as you gear up for an expertly guided sea-kayaking safari across the Pohatu Marine Reserve. This protected coastal area is alive with vibrant marine life including New Zealand fur seals, which you have a 100% chance to see on this tour. Guides provide all necessary gear, from lifejackets and dry jackets to spray decks and dry bags, ensuring comfort and safety on the water. Whether you’re a first-timer or fairly experienced, the double kayaks accommodate pairs with guides considering sea conditions, fitness, and skill. The combination of paddling in calm bays and spotting diverse marine creatures makes this part both thrilling and intimate with nature. This experience works perfectly for families with children aged six and up, providing a safe, structured environment in which everyone can enjoy New Zealand’s outdoors. Wildflower meadows, native birdlife, and the prehistoric forest setting set this adventure apart from typical hikes or kayaking tours. The trip’s location, on the scenic Banks Peninsula, is a standout destination thanks to its dramatic volcanic crater landscape, rare native species, and cultural history rooted in Maori and early European settlement. The operator’s care to limit group sizes to just eight per guide preserves the pristine environment and ensures a personalized adventure. Prepare for variable weather by packing waterproof gear and sunscreen, wear sturdy hiking shoes, and bring a lunch and water, which you can refill at the bay. Whether your passion lies in vibrant ecosystems, ocean wildlife, or quiet forest moments, this hike-and-kayak combo connects you to the rugged beauty of Canterbury’s wild coastline in a uniquely accessible way.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

moderate.

Duration

8 hours.

Fitness level

Participants should have moderate fitness to manage a 3-hour hike and paddling in calm coastal waters.

Frequently asked questions

Is prior kayaking experience required for this trip?

No prior kayaking experience is necessary as the kayaking portion is fully guided and supports beginners.

What is the minimum age for participants?

Children must be at least 6 years old to join this adventure, paired with an adult in the kayak.

What wildlife might I see during the tour?

Expect to see New Zealand fur seals, native forest birds, and marine life unique to the Pohatu Marine Reserve.

Can I bring my own food and water on the hike?

Yes, bring a packed lunch and water; you can also refill your bottles at the communal kitchen in Pohatu Bay.

Are there facilities available at Pohatu Bay?

Yes, the bay has a communal area with a kitchen and bathroom facilities for participant use.

What happens if weather conditions prevent kayaking?

If kayaking is unsafe due to conditions, you may be offered a full refund or the option to join another nature tour.

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.

About Pohatu Penguins

Pohatu Penguins operates wildlife tours and accommodation in Pohatu Bay near Akaroa, Canterbury. The business runs guided sea-kayaking safaris in the Pōhatu Marine Reserve, offering routes past towering cliffs, rock stacks and deep-sea caves. Guests can expect close encounters with native wildlife, including Australasian little penguins and seals, and the possibility of occasional dolphin sightings. No prior kayaking experience is required for most sea-kayaking trips; expert guides lead all paddling activities and provide safety briefings and gear. Alongside daytime kayaking, Pohatu Penguins offers evening penguin tours focused on conservation and monitoring of the largest Australasian little penguin colony in New Zealand. Visitors view penguins from hides, learn about nesting sites, and witness penguins returning to shore at dusk while guided by experienced staff. Several combined itineraries pair kayak time with guided hikes through ancient forest, scenic 4WD safaris to conservation areas, or relaxed accommodation packages that include a complimentary evening penguin tour. Accommodation options on the historic Pohatu farm include unique units such as a gypsy wagon and a tree house, set near private beaches and coastal landscapes. Overnight guests can explore bush walks, lighthouse reserve viewpoints and local wildlife rehabilitation projects. Pohatu Penguins emphasizes conservation education, safe guided experiences, and accessibility for a range of fitness levels. Operating from Akaroa, Canterbury, the organisation presents a reliable way to experience coastal wildlife, sea-kayaking and immersive nature tours on the Banks Peninsula. Trip options include sea-kayaking, self-drive safaris, 4WD scenic trips, early-bird paddles, and combined hike-and-kayak itineraries. Ideal for families, couples.

Base locationAkaroa, Canterbury Region

Tours offered11+

Adventure tips

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

Wear sturdy hiking shoesThe trail includes uneven forest terrain; good footwear will protect your feet and provide traction.

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

Apply reef-safe sunscreenProtect your skin and the marine environment while kayaking in sunny conditions around Pohatu Marine Reserve.

Recommended gear

Hiking boots or sturdy shoes: Provides support and grip for trekking through forest trails and uneven terrain.
Light rain jacket: Protects against unpredictable weather common on Banks Peninsula throughout the year.
Sun hat and sunglasses: Essential for sun protection during your hike and kayaking on open water.
Waterproof dry bags: Keep your belongings and electronics dry during the sea kayaking portion of the trip.