Queenstown Kayaking Tours – Moke Lake & Lake Wakatipu
updated 20th October 2026
Discover Queenstown's Scenic Kayaking & Paddleboard Experiences
Discover the beauty of Queenstown’s alpine lakes with Paddle Queenstown. Join a guided kayak tour on peaceful Moke Lake or hire a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore Lake Wakatipu at your own pace. With spectacular mountain scenery, quality equipment and options for beginners and experienced paddlers, it’s an unforgettable way to experience Queenstown from the water.
Discover Tranquil Moke Lake and the Beauty of Lake Wakatipu
Explore Moke Lake & Lake Wakatipu with Paddle Queenstown
Experience Queenstown’s spectacular alpine scenery from the water with Paddle Queenstown, offering guided kayaking adventures and independent kayak and stand-up paddleboard hire.
Just 20 minutes from Queenstown, Moke Lake offers a peaceful escape into the surrounding mountains and backcountry. Join an experienced local guide for a scenic kayaking adventure across calm alpine waters, with return transport, equipment, safety instruction, refreshments and complimentary photos included.
For those who prefer to explore independently, Lake Wakatipu offers an unforgettable kayaking and paddleboarding experience right from Queenstown Bay. Choose a single or double kayak, or hire a stand-up paddleboard, and enjoy beautiful waterfront views against the dramatic backdrop of the Remarkables and surrounding mountains.
Whether you’re trying kayaking for the first time, enjoying an outdoor adventure with family or simply looking for a relaxing activity in Queenstown, Paddle Queenstown offers experiences suited to a range of abilities.
Guided Moke Lake Kayak Tour – Queenstown
Journey into Queenstown’s backcountry for a peaceful half-day paddle on Moke Lake — surrounded by mountains, wildlife, and clear alpine water.
Price: $189.00 per person Child: $149.00 pp
Duration: Three Hours + travel
Depart: 9:00 am & 2:00 pm
Includes: tranport & Return Queenstown
Escape the bustle of Queenstown and discover the peaceful beauty of Moke Lake on a guided kayaking adventure surrounded by spectacular alpine mountains and rolling countryside.
Located just 20 minutes from Queenstown, Moke Lake is a hidden gem known for its sheltered waters, tranquil atmosphere and beautiful natural scenery. Paddle at a relaxed pace with an experienced local guide, taking time to appreciate the mountain reflections, native wildlife and peaceful backcountry setting.
This beginner-friendly kayaking experience is ideal for couples, families and visitors looking for a relaxing outdoor adventure. No previous kayaking experience is necessary, and even non-swimmers can participate with the provided safety equipment and guidance.
Your three-hour experience includes return transport from Queenstown, kayaking equipment, safety instruction, complimentary refreshments and free photos to remember your adventure.
Guided Moke Lake Kayaking Highlights
- Spectacular alpine scenery: Paddle beneath mountain ranges in a peaceful backcountry setting.
- Just 20 minutes from Queenstown: Escape the busy town centre and explore beautiful Moke Lake.
- Beginner-friendly adventure: Suitable for first-time kayakers, with guidance and safety equipment provided.
- Experienced local guides: Enjoy a relaxed paddling experience with knowledgeable instructors.
- Complimentary refreshments: Tea, coffee, juice and snacks are included.
- Free tour photos: Take home memories of your Moke Lake kayaking experience.
What’s Included:
- Return transport from Queenstown to Moke Lake
- Kayaks and paddles
- Personal flotation devices (lifejackets)
- Waterproof splash tops or jackets
- Safety briefing and paddling instruction
- Safety map
- Tea, coffee, juice and snacks
- Complimentary tour photos
- Trips are suitable for first time kayakers and even non-swimmers.
Freedom Kayak Hire – Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown
Explore the spectacular scenery of Lake Wakatipu at your own pace with Paddle Queenstown’s freedom kayak hire. Departing from Queenstown Bay, this relaxing kayaking experience offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and Queenstown’s picturesque waterfront.
Choose a single or double kayak and enjoy paddling on the lake, with no previous kayaking experience necessary. Paddle Queenstown’s friendly team will provide your equipment, a fitted lifejacket, basic paddling instructions and a safety briefing before you head onto the water.
Whether you’re looking for a fun activity with friends, a relaxing experience as a couple or your first taste of kayaking in Queenstown, freedom kayak hire is an enjoyable way to discover Lake Wakatipu from a different perspective.
Freedom Kayak Hire – Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown
55 Minute Kayak Hire
Price: $42.09. single kayak – double $84.17
Duration: 45 minutes on lake
Depart: select time when booking
- Paddle from Queenstown Bay: Enjoy convenient access to Lake Wakatipu from central Queenstown.
- Spectacular mountain views: Discover the lake’s beautiful alpine scenery from the water.
- Single and double kayaks: Choose an option to suit your preferred paddling experience.
- Suitable for beginners: Basic instruction and a safety briefing are provided before departure.
- Freedom to explore: Paddle independently within the permitted kayaking area and enjoy the scenery at your own pace.
- Quality safety equipment: Kayaks, paddles and fitted lifejackets are supplied.
Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP) Hire – Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown
55 Minute SUP Hire
Price: $42.09 per SUP
Duration: 45 minutes on lake
Depart: select time when booking
Discover Queenstown’s spectacular lakefront scenery with stand-up paddleboard (SUP) hire on Lake Wakatipu. Departing from Queenstown Bay, this enjoyable outdoor experience lets you explore the water at your own pace while taking in beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
Whether you’re trying paddleboarding for the first time or already enjoy spending time on the water, Paddle Queenstown provides the equipment and basic instruction to help you get started.
Enjoy approximately 45 minutes paddling within the designated area of Queenstown Bay, taking in the fresh alpine air and stunning scenery. It’s a fun, flexible activity for individuals, couples and friends looking to experience Queenstown from a different perspective.
Lake Wakatipu Paddleboard Hire Highlights:
- Convenient Queenstown Bay location: Start your paddleboarding experience close to central Queenstown.
- Beautiful alpine scenery: Enjoy views across Lake Wakatipu towards the surrounding mountains.
- Beginner-friendly introduction: Receive basic paddleboarding guidance and a safety briefing before heading out.
- Paddle at your own pace: Enjoy independent paddling within the operator’s designated area.
- A fun outdoor activity: Perfect for visitors wanting a short, active experience on Queenstown’s waterfront.
Our staff will provide you with a lifejacket and give you a short safety briefing before sending you out into Queenstown Bay. If you have no experience do not worry as we will show you the basics of kayaking before letting you practice your new skills on the water.
Why Choose Paddle Queenstown?
Paddle Queenstown offers a choice of guided kayaking adventures and independent kayak or stand-up paddleboard hire, making it easy to experience Queenstown’s beautiful alpine waterways.
Two spectacular locations: Guided kayaking on peaceful Moke Lake or freedom hire on Lake Wakatipu.
Beginner-friendly experiences: Equipment, safety briefings and introductory instruction are provided.
Experienced local guides: Enjoy guided paddling with local knowledge and on-water support.
Quality equipment: Kayaks, paddles and fitted lifejackets are supplied.
Extra inclusions on guided tours: Return transport from Queenstown, refreshments and complimentary photos.
Whether you’re a first-time paddler or an experienced kayaker, there’s an option to suit your interests and ability.
What to bring:
- A cellphone (essential)
- Camera
- Sun protection – Hat, Sun glasses, sunscreen
- Towel and Swimwear
- Full water Bottle
- Suitable footwear (Sandals/Jandals/Thongs or Flip Flops)
- Extra warm clothing (no jeans and preferably no cotton)
Safety is our top priority. That’s why our kayaks are equipped with all required safety features and are very stable craft to cope with the changing lake conditions.
Kayaking is a great way to enjoy Queenstown’s
awesome scenery and natural environment.
FAQ: Queenstown Kayak Tours
1. Where can I go kayaking in Queenstown?
Paddle Queenstown offers guided kayak tours on peaceful Moke Lake, approximately 20 minutes from Queenstown, and independent kayak hire on Lake Wakatipu from Queenstown Bay. Both locations offer spectacular alpine scenery, with options for beginners and experienced paddlers.
2. What is included in the Guided Moke Lake Kayak Tour?
The three-hour guided experience includes return transport from Queenstown, kayaks, paddles, lifejackets, waterproof splash tops, safety instruction, refreshments and complimentary tour photos. Experienced local guides provide support throughout the kayaking adventure.
3. Are Queenstown kayak tours suitable for beginners and non-swimmers?
Yes. The guided Moke Lake kayak tour welcomes first-time paddlers, including non-swimmers who meet the operator’s safety requirements. Lifejackets, safety briefings and guidance are provided. For independent kayak or SUP hire, suitability depends on individual ability and lake conditions.
4. How much does kayaking and paddleboard hire cost in Queenstown?
The Guided Moke Lake Kayak Tour costs NZ$188.34 per adult and NZ$146.25 per child, including fees. Freedom kayak hire on Lake Wakatipu costs NZ$42.09 for a single kayak or NZ$84.17 for a double kayak. Stand-up paddleboard hire costs NZ$36.83 per board. Prices are subject to change.
5. How long are the kayaking and SUP experiences?
The Guided Moke Lake Kayak Tour takes approximately three hours, including return transport from Queenstown. Freedom kayak and stand-up paddleboard hire bookings are 55 minutes, allowing approximately 45 minutes on Lake Wakatipu.
6. Can I hire a kayak or paddleboard without a guide?
Yes. Paddle Queenstown offers freedom hire of single and double kayaks and stand-up paddleboards from Queenstown Bay. Equipment and a safety briefing are provided before departure, allowing you to explore the permitted paddling area independently.
7. Where do Paddle Queenstown tours depart from?
Guided Moke Lake kayaking includes return transport from Queenstown, with meeting details provided when booking. Freedom kayak and SUP hire operates from Queenstown Bay on Lake Wakatipu. Check your booking confirmation for the exact meeting point.
8. What should I bring for a Queenstown kayaking experience?
Bring a full water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, suitable footwear, a towel and warm layers. Quick-drying clothing is recommended, and jeans or heavy cotton are best avoided. A cellphone and camera may also be useful if safely secured against water damage.
9. What happens if the weather is unsuitable for kayaking?
Safety is a priority, and kayaking or paddleboard activities may be delayed, rescheduled or cancelled when wind or lake conditions are unsuitable. The operator will advise you of available alternatives and any refund arrangements under the applicable booking conditions.
10. Are Paddle Queenstown kayaking experiences suitable for families and children?
Paddle Queenstown offers beginner-friendly experiences, including guided Moke Lake kayaking and independent kayak hire. Suitability for children depends on their age, ability, weather conditions and the operator’s safety requirements. Check any minimum age restrictions before booking.
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