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Glowworm Kayak Trip with The Boatshed Kayaks in Waikato - Hamilton

Glowworm Kayak Trip with The Boatshed Kayaks in Waikato

Cambridgemoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

3 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should have a moderate level of fitness; basic kayak paddling ability is helpful but not required.

Overview

Paddle quietly beneath glowing canyon walls on a magical nighttime kayak trip with The Boatshed Kayaks in Waikato. Experience New Zealand’s glowworms from the unique vantage of the Waikato River.

Karapiro, Waikato

Glowworm Trip

3 Hours • Ages 5+ • Guided Trip

Water Activities

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Adventure Photos

Glowworm Trip photo 1

About This Adventure

This Fantastic Kayak Adventure Offers Something Very Special for the Whole Family.

Private Boutique Tour Upgrade - Minimum 2 Guests: Includes mulled wine or hot chocolate, s'mores and cheeseboard

Schedule

3 Hours

Start time varies based on sunset times, ranges from 4:45pm - 7:45pm - 1 hour before sunset all year.


About

We start from the Epworth camp and kayak our way down a truly beautiful section of the Waikato River, to the Pokaiwhenua stream. With stunning twilight lake views we head under the Pokaiwhenua Bridge and into the glow-worm canyon.

Draped with native ferns, the canyon offers a true slice of New Zealand Beauty, and as the light fades away the unique incandescence of the glow-worms start to shine from the surrounding walls. After a quick glass of some of New Zealand’s finest wines (hot drink for the kids) complimented with some tasty cheeses had over the warmth of a campfire, it’s back in the boats, as we drift slowly down stream using only the light from the glow-worms. Viewing glow-worms from a kayak on the surface of the world is a whole different experience from seeing them inside a cave like at Waitomo.

For the safety of our clients and to ensure they have the best experience out there we are an Adventure Mark safety audit certified company.

Important Information

  • This trip requires only a moderate level of fitness.
  • The trip is fully guided by experienced Boatshed guides
  • Trip departure times very depending on daylight hours and there is a minimum group size of 6 people so bookings are essential.
  • There is a maximum group size of 16 and we like to use double sea-kayaks, so if you have an uneven group number you may be put with someone else.

Weather and What to Bring

  • As this is an outdoor adventure It will pay to bring some nice warm clothing, a waterproof jacket and gloves if you have them (although not essential). NO JEANS.
  • This tour is weather dependant. We will use the number provided to contact you regarding the weather and to remind you of what to bring.
  • If the weather looks poor we will give you the option to rebook. We then wait until 10am the following morning to make a final decision on trip departure. If the trip is cancelled, it is simply a case of rebooking to another evening that suits.

What's Included

  • Warm, waterproof jackets will be provided and waterproof pants will be available.
  • All kayak equipment (paddle board, paddle and life jacket)
  • Private Boutique Tour Upgrade Includes: Mulled wine or hot chocolate, s'mores and cheeseboard

Adventure Tips

Dress for Changing Temperatures

Bring warm layers and waterproof outerwear as evenings can get chilly on the water.

Arrive Early for Briefing

Allow time to get fitted with kayak gear and receive safety instructions before departure.

Avoid Wearing Jeans

Jeans are not ideal for kayaking and can stay wet and uncomfortable; opt for quick-dry pants instead.

Booking Minimum Group Size

Trips require at least 6 participants so booking ahead is essential to guarantee your spot.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Native glowworms
  • Waterfowl such as ducks and herons

History

Waikato River is central to Maori heritage, historically serving as a travel and trade route.

Conservation

The Boatshed Kayaks practices minimal-impact tours to protect fragile river ecosystems and glowworm habitats.

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Adventure Hotspots in Hamilton

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Waterproof Jacket

Essential

Keeps you dry and warm as you paddle in cool evening conditions.

fall specific

Warm Gloves

Protects hands from chill during the cooler months and makes paddling more comfortable.

fall|winter specific

Quick-Dry Pants

Essential

Avoids discomfort from moisture and dries quickly should you get splashed.

Headlamp or Small Flashlight

Useful for pre-trip preparation or walking at dusk before and after kayaking.