Paddle Lake Rotoiti at dusk to dine by geothermal hot pools and watch glowworms ignite the shoreline. This guided evening tour combines calm kayaking, a gourmet BBQ, and a long soak under the stars.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The lake opens like a dark sheet as you push off at dusk, oars whispering while tūī call from the treeline. Paddle strokes scatter moonlight; the water takes on a cool, patient hush that seems to hold its breath. Guides steer a quiet arc across Lake Rotoiti toward a shoreline only reachable by water, where steam rises from Manupirua Hot Pools and the world narrows to the sound of water and distant bird song.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4–5 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness; able to paddle a sit-on-top kayak for up to an hour and walk on uneven, sometimes muddy shorelines
Wildlife
History
The Rotoiti area is part of Te Arawa rohe; local geothermal features and waterways feature in iwi stories and were historically important for food and healing.
Conservation
Guests are asked not to use soaps or shampoos in the hot pools, to pack out waste, and to minimize light and noise to protect glowworm colonies and aquatic life.
Reserve your spot on the Rotorua: Evening Starlight Gourmet Kayak Tour Glowworms today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Use a dry bag
Keep electronics and extra layers dry — you'll be boarding from a boat ramp and moving between kayak and shore.
Bring a red-light headlamp
White light ruins glowworm viewing; a red-filter headlamp preserves night vision and respects other guests.
Dress in layers
Even summer evenings on the lake cool quickly once you stop paddling; a windproof outer layer helps retain heat after the soak.
Book early and confirm pickup
Tours have limited capacity and meet at a specific boat ramp — arrive 15 minutes early and confirm meeting details with the operator.
Dry bag (10–20L)
Protects clothing, camera, and phone from splashes while launching and on shore.
Red-filter headlamp or small red torch
Preserves night vision and prevents disturbing glowworms and other guests.
Insulating midlayer and windproof shell
Evenings get cool after paddling; layers trap heat and block lake breezes.
spring
Reusable water bottle
Hydration before and after the soak without creating single-use waste.
summer