Paddle Wanaka – Kayaking Trips on Lake Wanaka Tours & Rentals
Guided Kayak Trips & Rentals on Lake Wanaka
Explore Wanaka’s Best Paddling Adventures
Discover the Best Kayaking Adventures on Lake Wanaka
Lake Wanaka is New Zealand’s fourth-largest lake, set in a glacier-carved valley surrounded by the stunning Southern Alps. This breathtaking location is perfect for a kayaking adventure, and Paddle Wanaka offers guided tours on the sparkling waters of Lake Wanaka and the Clutha River. We also provide beach rentals and self-guided trips for those seeking independence on the water.
Guided Kayak Tours on Lake Wanaka
Join us on a guided exploration of Lake Wanaka’s hidden gems, including the pristine, predator-free Mou Waho Island. Here, you can take a short walk to a unique lake on an island in a lake, and enjoy a relaxing beachside picnic. For the more adventurous, Paddle Wanaka also offers an introduction to white-water kayaking on the Mighty Clutha River, featuring grade 1-2 rapids. Be ready to get a little wet and have a blast!
Explore the Hidden Gems of Lake Wanaka by Kayak
Our expert guides are passionate about the outdoors and ensure every trip begins with a thorough safety briefing. No prior kayaking experience is necessary—our tours are designed for all skill levels, with a leisurely pace that ensures a relaxed and enjoyable experience. From half-day excursions to multi-day paddling adventures, there’s a perfect tour for everyone.
Whether you’re new to kayaking, seeking thrilling adventures, or looking for a family-friendly activity, Paddle Wanaka has something for you. Explore the scenic 8-10 kilometre shoreline of Lake Wanaka, enjoy light snacks and beverages, and take in the stunning views. This small-group tour operates in most weather conditions, ensuring a memorable experience for all paddlers.
No experience is required – Just a sense of fun and adventure!
Paddle Wanaka – Kayak Tiki Tour
Price: $283.03 Per person – Child $251.47 pp
Departs: 9:00 am & 2:00 pm
Duration: 4 Hours
Looking for an easy-going yet stunning kayaking adventure? Join us for our Paddle Wanaka Tiki Tour—the perfect half-day, fully guided kayaking experience on Lake Wanaka.
Whether you’re new to kayaking or just looking for a relaxed and scenic outing, this tour is ideal for everyone.
What to Expect:
- Easy Kayaking: Paddle 8-10 kms along the beautiful Lake Wanaka coastline, taking in breathtaking views of the Southern Alps.
- Secluded Beach Stop: Relax on a hidden beach and enjoy a homemade chocolate brownie—a perfect snack for those looking to recharge.
- Optional Walks: Choose to take a short 15-minute walk to a peninsula or island, adding an extra layer of adventure to your tour.
- Light Refreshments: Enjoy light snacks and refreshments throughout the tour.
- All Skill Levels Welcome: Whether you’re a first-time kayaker, with family, or just in the mood for a peaceful outing, this tour is suitable for all ages and abilities.
- Operates in Most Weather Conditions: Our expert guides adjust the route as needed, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience regardless of the weather.
The Tiki Tour is the perfect choice for families, newcomers to kayaking, or anyone simply looking for a relaxed day on the water.
What to Bring: Bring clothing you don’t mind getting wet, along with essentials like sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, raincoat, fleece, water bottle, and snacks to keep you fueled during your journey.
Book your adventure today and get ready to experience the stunning landscapes of Lake Wanaka!
The Mission Freedom Rental
Price: $156.77 Per person – Child $146.25pp
Price: Families $606.05(2 adults + 2 children)
Departs: 9:00 am & 2:00 pm
Duration: 4 Hours
About the Mission Freedom Rental
Set off on a self-guided adventure around the stunning Lake Wanaka coastline with our Mission Freedom Rental. This exciting challenge is designed for a minimum of two people, where you’ll navigate your way back to Roys Bay within 3-4 hours.
You’ll be transported from Paddle Wanaka’s headquarters to your starting point and provided with all the necessary equipment, including kayaks or paddle boards, along with a comprehensive safety briefing.
Your goal is to follow your assigned route and complete the journey in the time limit. It’s the perfect test of teamwork and adventure.
What to Expect:
- Scenic Self-Guided Tour: Paddle or kayak 8-10 km along Lake Wanaka’s beautiful coastline, exploring the serene environment at your own pace.
- Optional Walk: Take a short 10-15 minute walk on a peninsula or island to stretch your legs and enjoy more of the natural beauty of the area.
- Bring Your Own Picnic: Enjoy a break with your own picnic along the way. The lake is a perfect spot for a peaceful snack stop.
- Weather Dependent: All trips are subject to weather conditions. Routes may be adjusted based on weather and your experience level to ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure.
- All Necessary Equipment Provided: We’ll equip you with everything you need, from kayaks or paddle boards to life jackets and paddles.
Important Information:
- Fitness Level: This is an intermediate-level tour. You’ll need some fitness to paddle 8-10 km and complete the optional walk.
- What to Bring: Bring clothing you don’t mind getting wet, along with essentials like sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, raincoat, fleece, water bottle, and snacks to keep you fueled during your journey.
Book your Mission Freedom Rental today for a thrilling, self-guided adventure on Lake Wanaka!
Hire a kayak and paddle where youwant to:
Single Kayak Hire
Price: $36.83 1 hour – $63.13 2 Hours – 84.17 3 Hours includes fee’s
Departs: Select time when booking 9am to 5 pm
Duration: select choice when booking
Double Kayak Hire
Price: $$73.65 1 hour – $126.106 2 Hours – 168.35 3 Hours includes fee’s
Departs: Select time when booking 9am to 5 pm
Duration: select choice when booking
This is a fantastic choice for those wanting to explore Lake Wanaka by kayak independently on your own agenda. It’s also a great choice for families!
Duration
1, 2 or 3 Hours
About
Popular places to explore by paddle include around the bay to Eely Point, that ‘famous Wanaka tree’, Waterfall creek and the favourite Ruby island!
We offer New Zealand made, purpose built expedition kayaks. Tandem and single kayaks available.
With all of our beach rentals you must bring a buddy if your intention is to paddle for more than 1 hour.
More info
• Paddle Wanaka will supply life jackets but you may get splashed!
• Age 6 – 17 needs parents written approval
What to bring
All you need to bring is clothing that you don’t mind getting wet, and anything else you might want to deal with the current weather (sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, raincoat, fleece, water bottle, snacks, etc.) If you are going out for 2 or more hours you should also bring a cell phone that works in New Zealand as an emergency contact.
Get off the beaten track and escape the crowds with
Paddle Wanaka Guided Kayaking Trips.
What Our Clients Say About Our Team on Lake Wanaka
“Smooth Kayak Rental Experience”
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- Reviewer: J465AYkathrynl
- Date: January 2025
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- Review: “Paddle Wānaka is set up on the beachfront, with kayaks ready to go on the edge of the lake. The entire rental was really smooth, with example excursions provided for each trip length.”
“Double Kayak Adventure on Lake Wānaka”
- Reviewer: Robyn S
- Date: February 2025
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- Review: “Two of us in a double kayak were dropped up Lake Wānaka and given a suggested adventurous paddle back to the lakeside shop. All instructions were clear and helpful; we had a great couple of hours exploring.”
“Great Time on the Lake”
- Reviewer: denhamania
- Date: January 2025
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- Review: “My wife and I took a double kayak out for just an hour on the lake. The Paddle Wānaka guys provided us with a dry bag and explained the foot-operated rudder system. So easy once you get the hang of it.”
“Exploring Lake Wānaka Independently”
- Reviewer: Brendon S
- Date: December 2024
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- Review: “Great option to go exploring on the lake without the need to toe the line with a group. Views are outstanding, water so clear and cool. Just perfect.”
“Family-Friendly Kayak Tour”
- Reviewer: DrRChCh
- Date: November 2024
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- Review: “Can’t speak highly enough of our experience on the lake with Paddle Wānaka today. Our family group, ranging in age from 6 to 79, was guided over to Mou Waho and boated back. We were slow but were never made to feel rushed.”
“Fun Kayak Experience”
- Reviewer: J465AYkathrynl
- Date: October 2024
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- Review: “Paddle Wānaka is set up on the beachfront, with kayaks ready to go on the edge of the lake. The entire rental was really smooth, with example excursions provided for each trip length.”
“Memorable Stand-Up Paddleboarding”
- Reviewer: Alex T
- Date: September 2024
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- Review: “Tried stand-up paddleboarding for the first time with Paddle Wānaka. The staff was encouraging and provided excellent instruction. Had a blast on the water!”
“Relaxing Afternoon Paddle”
- Reviewer: Samantha K
- Date: August 2024
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- Review: “Rented a kayak for the afternoon. The lake was calm, and the scenery was breathtaking. A perfect way to unwind and enjoy nature.”
“Professional and Friendly Staff”
- Reviewer: Michael B
- Date: July 2024
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- Review: “The team at Paddle Wānaka is top-notch. They made sure we were comfortable and informed before heading out. Highly recommend their services.”
“Sunset Kayak Tour Delight”
- Reviewer: Emily R
- Date: June 2024
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- Review: “Joined the sunset kayak tour and it was magical. Watching the sun dip behind the mountains from the lake was an unforgettable experience.”
“Well-Maintained Equipment”
- Reviewer: Daniel M
- Date: May 2024
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- Review: “Rented paddleboards for a few hours. The equipment was in excellent condition, and the staff provided helpful tips for beginners.”
“Adventure to Ruby Island”
- Reviewer: Laura H
- Date: April 2024
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- Review: “Kayaked to Ruby Island with friends. The journey was enjoyable, and exploring the island was a highlight of our trip.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Kayaking on Lake Wānaka
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What activities does Paddle Wānaka offer?
Paddle Wānaka specializes in kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) guided trips and rentals on Lake Wānaka and the Clutha River. They offer casual beach rentals as well as fully guided tours. -
Do I need prior experience to participate?
No prior experience is necessary. Paddle Wānaka caters to all levels, and their friendly staff will provide a brief instructional session before you head out. -
What should I wear for the activities?
It’s best to wear comfortable, quick-drying clothing suitable for water activities. Non-cotton clothing is recommended, as well as footwear that can get wet. -
Where is Paddle Wānaka located?
Paddle Wānaka operates from the Wānaka lakefront. The rental and tour operations are easily accessible from the main beach area in Wānaka. -
What are the operating hours?
Operating hours vary by season—typically from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM in summer and 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM in winter. It’s a good idea to check ahead of your visit, especially if the weather is unpredictable. -
What safety equipment do you provide?
Paddle Wānaka provides all the necessary safety equipment including life jackets and dry bags for your belongings. All equipment is regularly maintained and meets high safety standards to ensure a secure experience on the water. -
Do you provide wetsuits?
Yes, wetsuits are available upon request for an additional fee. Be sure to inquire in advance if you’d like one. -
Is there an age limit for participants?
Paddle Wānaka welcomes paddlers of all ages. If you have any concerns about a specific tour’s suitability, contact the team for personalized advice. -
What happens in case of bad weather?
While light rain is acceptable, severe weather or high winds may cause cancellations for safety reasons. It’s recommended to check the weather forecast and contact Paddle Wānaka if conditions seem questionable. -
Can I take a camera or phone with me?
Yes, you can bring your camera or phone; however, it’s wise to use a waterproof case or dry bag to protect your electronics while on the water.