Advertisement
Taupo Tours
2-Hour Waikato River Guided Kayak Trip from Taupo
5
LIKELY TO SELL OUT*

2-Hour Waikato River Guided Kayak Trip from Taupo

By Canoe & Kayak Taupo Tours
Recommended by 99% of travelers
99% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
What is Travelers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation

Ages 3-99, max of 7 per group
Duration: 2h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket


  • Professional guide
  • All equipment
What's not included
  • Lunch


Start:
  • Canoe and Kayak Taupo, 54 Spa Road, Taupō 3330, New Zealand
    Please meet us at Canoe & Kayak 15 minutes before your scheduled departure.
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point.

    • Not wheelchair accessible
    • Near public transportation
    If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 35393P3

    • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
    • All children must be accompanied by an adult
    • Children under the age of 12 must have a 1:1 ratio with an adult.
    • A minimum of 4 people per booking is required
    • Most travelers can participate
    • Operates all year, please dress appropriately for the seasons - NO JEANS/DENIM
    • * Kaitiaki is the Māori word for the Guardian of the Environment. This is collected on behalf of the local iwi for their role in taking care of Lake Taupō and the Waikato River. This will be collected when you arrive.
    • This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
    • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 7 travelers

    • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

    If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 35393P3

    From
    $53.68
    per adult
    Select date and travelers

    Similar experiences

    About the operator
    Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
    • Canoe & Kayak Taupo Tours
      597
      Taupo, New Zealand
      Joined in July 2012
    • alexak913
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Great time!
      Great experience! The kayaking bit was really fun and the carvings are awesome! Great guide, and nice little resting stop with hot drinks and biscuits!
      Written November 30, 2024
    • jameskT6881DI
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Beautiful, scenic and immersive kayak experience
      The sights were stunning. Evan was an excellent tour guide. Morning weather was cold but it turned out much warmer out on the lake. We appreciated the support the team gave us with gear and information. Highly recommend this tour
      Written July 12, 2024
    • clairecC4301LU
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      adventurous and playful
      The experience was fantastic, we had fun in paddling and enjoyed the serenity in the middle of the Taupō lake. The coach guide us well and share stories along the journey. We had a great day!
      Written April 25, 2024
    • Cruiser764570
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      A little slice of heaven
      What a gorgeous trip. Doug and team were so helpful - we felt incredibly relaxed and loved the scenery, the stories and the snack at the flat rocks. Thank you
      Written April 10, 2024
    • RollingStone_2891
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Great day out on Lake Taupo
      We had a beautiful day out on Lake Taupo. Our guide was great - super easy to chat with and very knowledgeable. Kayaking was at a nice pace - these guys know what they’re doing and we knew we were in good hands the whole time. We really enjoyed the day out.
      Written March 31, 2024
    • athos99
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Great half day on the lake
      Doug made this a very good trip. He entertained us the whole time with a whole range of stories from his many experiences in New Zealand. The trip was the perfect length and we had good weather, so it was not difficult at all. Kayaking is certainly the best way to see these rock carvings.
      Written March 27, 2024
    • GailF589
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Kayaking experience
      Great experience kayaking out to the Maori carving on Lake Taupo, we enjoyed the challenge to get there and back, well worth it!
      Written March 15, 2024
    • 994lainem
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Wonderful Experience…. Thanks Artis
      Artis, the tour guide was genuine and informative. He was a wonderful partner on this tour and took some lovely pictures for us. We appreciated the information and background on the area.
      Written January 27, 2024
    • AlisonK110
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Great kayaking experience
      We had a personalised kayak trip with Artisse. He was a great coach and very encouraging! We were lucky with the weather and thoroughly enjoyed our time on Taupo Lake.
      Written January 21, 2024
    • Becky_18J
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Lovely company- great fun
      Really great time kayaking to see the lake. I was a little worried because I was 5 months pregnant but the lady assured me it would be ok and the guide ensured I was ok. More fun than going on a boat. A lovely guide and all round fun experience with a nice stop off for drinks and biscuits half way!
      Written January 16, 2024
    • Safari66140958644
      0 contributions
      4.0 of 5 bubbles
      More than just kayaking.. in many good ways
      Everything about the tour was insane, the location was stunning with beautiful conditions and clear water, the snacks and coffee were great as well as the ability to swim at the pebble beach we landed at near the Tiki Carving. The guide's English was a bit of a barrier, and he was quite introverted, only explaining the history and meaning of the Carving to those who asked and in individual conversations rather than as a leader and teacher for the group. We got some great photos and some mediocre ones, but other wise he was sweet enough, and very relaxed, not putting pressure on us to get moving, and the rest of the tour was great.
      Written January 11, 2024
    • suebD9590YT
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Brilliant kayak tour
      Had a fantastic time on our kayak trip with Artis, he gave clear instructions, very knowledgeable & motivating. We had a beautiful day - thank you Artis.
      Written January 7, 2024
    • Contruba
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Five Star Kayak Experience!
      We went on a guided kayak tour of Lake Taupo with our guide Doug. He was extremely knowledgeable of the history of the lake because he grew up there. He told us a lot of very interesting stories about the land around the lake, the people, the culture, facts about the lake itself, volcanic events, etc. He also had an awesome sense of humor and personality!! He was outgoing, friendly, personable, funny, and just the PERFECT guide!! You could see his passion for the lake, and New Zealand!! He was SO helpful to the people who were less experienced kayakers and made everyone feel safe. We stopped halfway through the tour and he provided us with drinks and snacks. I highly recommend this experience, and specifically, Doug!! We had a wonderful time and we will treasure the memories from this experience forever!!
      Written November 26, 2023
    • joshwV2891RP
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Fun kayak trip
      We had a great time paddling through some big waves. The staff was helpful and Doug was a great guide. thanks for the adventure 🤙
      Written November 18, 2023
    • Ericka O
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Amazing morning on the lake!
      Even on a cloudy, light showers day, the lake is beautiful. Sasha was an amazing tour guide giving us stories about the lake, Māori legends, and the surroundings of the lake. She took some great photos at the rock carvings. Only thing I’ll note is I wish we had more time at the carvings to take photos ourselves but it’s a very popular area with other boats so you can imagine you can get crowded so you have to be quick and intentional with your photos. Sasha also brought cookies and warm drinks so we had a quick stop by the beach for snacks.
      Written October 25, 2023
    See all 597 reviews
    These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

    Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

    Popular mentions

    5.0
    5.0 of 5 bubbles138 reviews
    Excellent
    130
    Very good
    7
    Average
    0
    Poor
    1
    Terrible
    0

    Susan B
    Westerham, UK294 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    We were booked on the 2hour Kayaking trip and I was very unsure about it. But my anxiety was put to rest once we met Laura our guide for the activity.
    We had a very easy calm and lovely few hours. Laura explained everything beautifully and told us all about our surroundings and pointed out certain points along the way of interest. The hot springs were lovely and an amazing place. Laura took photos along the way which we had emailed with in a hour !
    Thank you Laura you were super to have as our guide and made it very easy for me( nervous) to relax and enjoy the tour.
    We both think you are a excellent guide and will do very well in your chosen career.
    Written February 2, 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Thanks for an excellent review. It's nice to hear that our guests enjoy the tour as much as we enjoy taking them.
    Written February 8, 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    Steve & Julie
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Feb 2020
    Fantastic trip, Rory understood we were novices and provided clear instructions to help us feel comfortable. He also provided lots of interesting information about the area. It was also great to go to the thermal spa. Thank you.
    Written March 3, 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Thanks for coming out on the river with us - it's a special spot. I'm glad that you felt safe with Rory.
    Written March 13, 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    Ming Z
    Wellington, New Zealand5 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Me and my mom really enjoyed the Waikato river kayak trip with our guide Laura. She is so helpful and gave us lots of information about this river. I strongly recommend this trip to everyone who is new to kayak and wants to discover more of Waikato river.
    Written March 14, 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Thanks for choosing to come out on the amazing Waikato River with us - It's a special place and I'm glad you and your Mum enjoyed it.
    Written March 15, 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    Valeria K
    Auckland Central, New Zealand78 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Apr 2022 • Family
    It was tranquil beautiful day on the water. Thanks to friendly and professional staff of Taupo Canoe and Kayaks there was nothing to worry about. We were surrounded by pristine nature of Waikato region and visited hot water beach. Bring your toggs to soak in this natural pool. Also, we were observing bungy jumpers from the best viewing point - from the water.
    Written April 25, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Thanks so much for choosing to come with us on such a stunning day and we're glad that you enjoyed it.
    Written April 26, 2022
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    Michael K
    Munich, Bayern, Germany4 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Feb 2020
    To paddle down the Waikato River was a very impressive experience. On one side the total peace and quiet and the clear still water, on the other side an impressive nature with huge rocks, jungle-like forest and on the way the thermal springs of the Spa Park. In a word: wonderful
    Written March 26, 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Thank you - much appreciated - we love it too!!
    Written June 17, 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    Simone and Philip
    2 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Feb 2021
    Laura our guide was great with the kids, really relaxed and we felt safe the whole time. Had heaps of fun with some hidden gems. We even went back to the rope swing the next day!
    Written February 7, 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Thank you for the great review. I'm glad that you and your little dare devils had a fun time on (and in) the water. Glad we got to introduce you to so many great spots to have fun along the river.
    Written February 9, 2021
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    Adele P
    13 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Feb 2020 • Couples
    This was a fabulous way to spend an afternoon in Taupo. We were warmly welcomed at the Canoe & Kayak shop, given an overview of the experience and chance to ask questions and introduce to the rest of the party. For our booking there were 6 of us, a nice small group and we could get acquainted easily. Our lovely guide Laura gave us practical instructions and health & safety guidance and we were off! The river is gorgeous and Laura gave us lots of information of points along the way. The rowing was not at all strenuous, very pleasant so you could really enjoy the surroundings. We stopped at a hot spring pool area, that was quite busy with other folks enjoying the river, but Laura guided us around. She took loads of pictures on her waterproof camera which she kindly emailed to us later. The pick up transport was a little further downstream, but we weren't rushed st all. It was a great afternoon,thank you Laura!
    Written February 3, 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Thanks for a great review - we're really glad you enjoyed the trip, we think it's beautiful.
    Written February 8, 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    Ash Dub
    3 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Jan 2020 • Couples
    We arrived early at the shop and the staff was welcoming and attentive instantly. Extra sunscreen and other amenities we hadn’t thought of were taken care of for us before we headed for the river. Neither of us are exceptional at kayaking, but this with current, two hour venture was easy to manage, with beautiful stops along the way. Our guide, Tammy, took pictures of us, informed us about the surroundings and the history, and was over all very pleasant. If you’re looking for a calm outdoor activity, this tour is for you.
    Written January 25, 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Thanks for a great review and we're really glad you enjoyed the tour - it's a pretty special place.
    Written February 8, 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    Cage89
    Walton, KY242 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Jan 2020
    Rory and the Canoe and Kayak Taupo company were top notch! A very well organized and straightforward outing. The water was pristine, beutiful turquoise, and calm. Easy paddling downstream. Observed birdlife, bungee jumpers, and nice scenery. Rory talked a lot of the local culture, history, and gave many interesting personal annecdotes. Was nice to stop off and briefly soak in the hot springs, as well. Fascinating area and geothermal features in the Rotorura area. This excusion was a nice and relaxing diversion for us.
    Written January 12, 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Thanks so much for a great review - we really appreciate that you chose to come with us.
    Written February 8, 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    DJSchmerl
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Jan 2020 • Family
    Great trip cruising down the river in kayaks. Scenery was great, guide (Rory) was great, stop at hot pools a bonus. Only wished it was longer. Good for families. We had three kids youngest was 10 and he was able to do no problems.

    Guide even took photos and emailed them to you.

    Thanks
    Written January 10, 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Thanks for your review - we would love the tour to be longer too, but the Huka Falls are just a little way further downstream. Thanks for coming along with us.
    Written February 8, 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    Showing results 1-10 of 130
    *Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.

    2-Hour Waikato River Guided Kayak Trip from Taupo provided by Canoe & Kayak Taupo Tours

    All Taupo HotelsTaupo Hotel DealsLast Minute Hotels in Taupo
    All things to do in Taupo
    Amusement Parks in TaupoZoos & Aquariums in Taupo
    RestaurantsFlightsVacation RentalsTravel StoriesCruisesRental Cars