I shared a double kayak with my husband to paddle down the Opawa River. We had viewed the river from on land at the lagoons but being actually on the water was wonderful.The eveining was calm and the birds on the sandbanks were great up close.
Will set the scene before we started and was a good "host " and guide.
I would recommend anyone to go on one of Will's tours and I am sure that they will not be disappointed.

Will worked very hard to give 4 of us many different views of interesting birds and beautiful scenery. It was hard work as the weather was cool and wet . The top notch photographer in our group got fantastic shots of hawks and shore birds. And Will was constantly looking out for our comfort ,given the weather. Brought soup , tea, sandwiches, and many other treats.

What a wonderful experience. The history, birds, company and date and ginger muffins were excellent. Will Parson is a easy going, realistic, fun and knowledgeable guy. He seemed to know the birds individually. I enjoyed the peace and tranquilly of the twilight kayak. Highly recommended.

I miss a Better than Excelent rate to evaluate this tour! Will (the guide) is a nature lover and knows all the birds names who live in the river. The place makes you feel you are the only creature in the planet, because during all the tour the only thing you can see is the river, a lot of birds, nest and a sunset which is definitely the best I have already seen!

The Kayak has a direction control which you can manage with your feet, which is very interesting compared with traditional kayak you must force one arm to go to the opposite direction.

It was a very relaxing experience, and food was a big MUST! All very natural and prepared bu Will: Muffins, salmon sandwiches, blackberrys, a fantastic brownie, yougurt, etc... All this food appreciated with the sun going down and water on our knees.

I also must to mention that Will has a deep historic knowledge about the region, the Maoris, colonization and the place itself.

If you like paddling, nature and want to take some hours relaxing in a place which seems to be 100% private for you, I recommend doing this kayak tour with Driftwood!

Btw: The Blemheim region is famous for wine lovers, so this tour makes a good balance after so many wine tasting! :-)