Okarito
Discover Okarito Kayaks on New Zealand’s West Coast. NZ
Explore the Untamed Beauty of the West Coast by Kayak
A Serene Lagoon Experience on New Zealand’s West Coast
Escape to the peaceful embrace of Okarito Kayaks, where the mirror-like lagoon and its quiet, intertwining estuaries create an idyllic setting for a truly relaxing kayaking adventure. Unlike the open ocean, our tours take you through calm, sheltered waterways that reveal a hidden world of vibrant birdlife and delicate ecosystems. As you paddle through these tranquil channels, you’ll witness spoonbills gracefully skimming the water’s surface and white heron perched quietly amidst the native vegetation.
Our tours are designed for those who appreciate the subtle beauty of nature—a gentle journey where every ripple on the water tells a story of serenity and balance. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a newcomer to kayaking, our expert guides ensure a safe, informative, and deeply immersive experience. Explore intimate waterways, discover secluded estuaries, and learn about the local conservation efforts that protect this precious environment.
Why Choose Okarito Kayaks?
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Calm, Intimate Waterways: Enjoy a serene paddle on mirror-like waters, where the pace of life slows down and nature’s quiet beauty takes center stage.
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Rich Avian Life: Experience close encounters with native bird species such as spoonbills and white heron, making every tour a unique wildlife-watching opportunity.
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Expert Guidance in a Peaceful Setting: Our knowledgeable guides provide insights into the local ecosystem and cultural heritage, ensuring that your journey is both educational and relaxing.
Discover Our Okarito Lagoon Kayak Tours
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Tranquil Routes: Designed to highlight the gentle waterways and hidden estuaries, our routes are perfect for those seeking a peaceful and reflective experience.
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Local Heritage and Conservation: Learn about the efforts to preserve the natural beauty of Okarito’s lagoons and the rich biodiversity that calls it home.
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Flexible and Friendly: With options catering to various skill levels, our tours are structured to offer a stress-free, personalized adventure in one of New Zealand’s most enchanting settings.
Two Hour Ōkārito Lagoon Guided Kayak Experience
Three Hour Ōkārito Lagoon Guided Kayak Experience
Price: $150 per person – Child $75 pp
Departs: Choose time when booking
Duration: Approx 2 Hour 30 Minutes
Two-Hour Lagoon Discovery Tour.
Experience a compact yet immersive journey through Ōkārito Lagoon—a serene, shallow wetland offering breathtaking, uninterrupted views of Westland Tai Poutini National Park.
In just two hours, you’ll glide across calm, mirror-like waters that reflect the rugged Tasman Sea and hint at the distant majesty of Aoraki/Mt. Cook and the Southern Alps.
This shorter tour is designed for those eager to sample the beauty of Ōkārito at a relaxed pace. Paddle along intimate channels bordered by lush native vegetation, where the quiet of the lagoon creates a natural stage for spotting graceful spoonbills, white heron, and other local wildlife.
Our small-group experience ensures personalized interaction with our expert local nature guides, who share fascinating insights about the region’s unique ecosystem and cultural heritage.
Enjoy a peaceful exploration that captures the essence of Ōkārito’s magic in a concise and accessible way.
Price: $190 per person – Child $85 pp
Departs: Choose time when booking
Duration: 3 Hour 30 Minutes
Three-Hour Rainforest & Lagoon Exploration Tour
Embark on a leisurely three-hour journey through the enchanting Ōkārito Lagoon. Glide across calm, shallow waters that open to expansive views of Westland Tai Poutini National Park, stretching from the rugged Tasman Sea to the distant silhouettes of Aoraki/Mt. Cook and the Southern Alps.
This extended tour invites you to venture beyond the open lagoon into secluded, rainforest-fringed creeks that can only be reached by kayak.
Experience a gentle, unrushed exploration that allows you to fully absorb the rich natural tapestry of the area. Along the way, admire the vibrant birdlife—including spoonbills and white heron—and learn about the unique ecosystems from our expert local guides.
With our small-group format, every participant benefits from personalized insights, making your encounter with Ōkārito’s serene beauty both intimate and unforgettable.
Private, Exclusive Two Hour Ōkārito Lagoon Guided Kayak Experience
Private, Exclusive Three Hour Ōkārito Lagoon Guided Kayak Experience
Price: $230 per person – Child $115 pp
Departs: choose time when booking
Duration: Approx 2 Hour 30 Minutes
Two-Hour Private Lagoon Experience
Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Ōkārito Lagoon with a personalized two-hour private tour, designed exclusively for you and your chosen companions.
Enjoy uninterrupted access to the shallow, mirror-like waters and the stunning panorama of Westland Tai Poutini National Park—from the rugged shores of the Tasman Sea to the distant peaks of Aoraki/Mt. Cook and the Southern Alps.
This intimate tour offers the luxury of a customized pace, allowing you to delve deeper into the unique aspects of the lagoon environment.
Glide quietly through secluded channels and explore hidden spots favored by local wildlife such as spoonbills and white heron.
Your dedicated local nature guide will share insider insights into the ecosystem and cultural heritage of Ōkārito, ensuring a rich and memorable adventure.
With the focus entirely on your group, this private tour provides a truly exclusive experience in one of New Zealand’s most serene settings.
Price: $285 per person – Child $142.50 pp
Departs: Choose time when booking
Duration: Approx 3 Hour 30 Minutes
Three-Hour Private Exclusive Adventure.
Delve into the heart of Ōkārito Lagoon with a three-hour private tour tailored exclusively for you and your group.
Enjoy extended access to the serene, mirror-like waters and take in sweeping views of Westland Tai Poutini National Park—from the rugged Tasman Sea to the distant majesty of Aoraki/Mt. Cook and the Southern Alps.
This private journey offers a relaxed, personalised exploration that ventures deeper into the lagoon’s hidden treasures.
Paddle through quiet channels and discover secluded, rainforest-fringed creeks accessible only by kayak, all while encountering the region’s unique birdlife, including graceful spoonbills and white heron.
With your dedicated local nature guide, receive exclusive insights into the local ecosystem, cultural heritage, and conservation efforts that make Ōkārito a natural sanctuary.
This extended, private experience allows you to set the pace of your adventure, ensuring a truly intimate and memorable encounter with one of New Zealand’s most enchanting environments.
Okarito Kayaks Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the best time of year for kayaking in Ōkārito Lagoon?
A: While the lagoon is stunning from mid-October to May, our tours operate all year round. Please note, however, that we close from mid-June to mid-July to allow for essential maintenance and conservation efforts.
Q2: What should I bring on the tour?
A: We recommend wearing comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and waterproof footwear. Please also bring a hat, sunscreen, and a water bottle. Life jackets are provided on all tours to ensure your safety.
Q3: Are the tours suitable for beginners?
A: Absolutely. Our tours are designed to accommodate all skill levels. Whether you’re new to kayaking or an experienced paddler, our expert guides will ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience.
Q4: How many people are in each tour group?
A: We keep our tour groups small to maintain an intimate experience and provide personalized guidance. Group sizes vary by tour, ensuring you receive quality attention from our local experts.
Q5: Can I book a private tour?
A: Yes, private tours are available for both two-hour and three-hour options. These tours are tailored exclusively for your group, offering a more personalized and flexible experience.
Q6: What birdlife can I see on the lagoon and its estuaries?
A: Ōkārito Lagoon is a significant, unmodified wetland in New Zealand, home to over 70 bird species. On our tours, you may encounter a variety of wading birds, including:
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Kōtuku/White Heron: A prominent species; the lagoon serves as a key feeding ground.
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Royal Spoonbill (Kōtuku-ngutapapa): Recognized for their comical feeding habits.
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Pied Stilt: Often seen stalking their prey along the lagoon’s edges.
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Matuku moana/White-Faced Heron: Known for their shy nature, these birds tend to hide among the rushes.
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Australasian Bittern: Notable for their booming calls.
This rich diversity makes the lagoon an exceptional destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
Royal Spoonbill - Okarito Lagoon
Kotuku - White Heron - Okarito Lagoon
