Paddle the coastline beneath Mauao with Māori guides who blend paddling instruction and ancestral stories. This two-hour SUP experience pairs basic technique with a short guided walk and cultural insights.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the sand and onto a stable board, the sea at your knees and Mauao’s volcanic flank rising like a storybook edge to the west. Salt wind pushes the waves into neat lines; gulls wheel and call. Local Māori instructors check your leash and lifejacket, then tell you why the headland matters before you push out along the shoreline.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness—comfortable standing balance and basic cardiovascular fitness for 45–75 minutes on the water
Wildlife
History
Mauao’s name means ‘caught by the dawn’ and the volcanic cone is a culturally significant landmark for local Māori iwi, who have occupied the area for centuries.
Conservation
Respect rāhui and local tikanga: avoid disturbing shorebirds, take all litter with you, and use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life.
Reserve your spot on the Stand Up Paddle Board Adventure in Mount Maunganui today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Hydrate and carry water
Bring a reusable water bottle in a dry bag—paddling and sun exposure dehydrate quickly even on cool days.
Sun protection matters
The Bay of Plenty sun can be strong; use reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and UV layers for the paddle and walk.
Watch tides and swell
Ask your guide about current tidal conditions—swell can change how sheltered the route feels and affect return paddling.
Wear secure footwear
Choose shoes you can paddle in and walk Mauao’s lower tracks with—sandals that grip or lightweight trail shoes work well.
Quick-dry athletic top
Breathable sun protection that dries fast if you get splashed.
summer
Lightweight wind layer
Blocks chill when sea breezes pick up, especially early or late season.
spring
Dry bag (5–10L)
Keeps water, phone, and extra layer safe and accessible on the board.
Water shoes or grippy sandals
Protect feet when launching, landing and walking the short Mauao trails.