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.