New Zealand’s rivers, lakes and coastlines create plenty of ways to get out on the water. Whether you are after the rush of white-water rapids, a scenic paddle through a quiet bay or a day exploring by boat, there are experiences to suit different interests and levels of adventure.
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Discover New Zealand’s waterways through rafting, kayaking, jet boating and coastal adventures.
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From rushing rivers and sheltered bays to open coastlines and peaceful lakes, New Zealand offers water adventures for every kind of traveller. Try white-water rafting in Rotorua, kayak around Auckland, or explore the waterways of Queenstown. Choose guided trips or self-guided rentals to match your pace.
Water Sports, River & Ocean Adventures
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Top Attractions
Little Akatarawa Canyoning
One of Wellington's most unique outdoor experiences
from NZ $299.00
5 Hours 
Kaikoura - with kayaking experience
Wildlife Kayak Experience (approximately 3 hours) with Kaikōura Kayaks
from NZ $365.00
10 Hours 
Kayak Classic Tour - Franz Josef Glacier
Kayak or cruise with a Glacier & Mountain Backdrop
from NZ $159.00
3 Hours 
from NZ $95.00
2 Hours 30 Mins 
from NZ $70.00
30 Mins 
Rafting New Zealand Family Rafting
Rafting on the beautiful Tongariro River Rafting
from NZ $149.00
Allow 2.5 hours
from NZ $145
3 hours 
from NZ $30.00
1 Hours 
from NZ $145.00
2 Hours 30 Mins 
from NZ $695.00
4 Hours 
Rotorua Lakes Best Kept Secrets
Guided lake tour of Rotoiti onboard the one of a kind Airstream vessel
from NZ $175.00
2 Hours 30 Mins 
Canoe Hire & Jet Boat Tours Whanganui Riv...
Experience 1 day canoe hire with jet boat return
from NZ $265.00
3 hours 
Sunset Sea Kayak to Rangitoto Island / with B...
Guided Walk to the Summit of Rangitoto Island
from NZ $220.00
6 Hours 30 Mins 
Bethells Boogie
Explore impressive 30-meter-high sea caves and rock chasms along the rugged west coast.
from NZ $250
4 hours 
from NZ $120.00
3 Hours 
Jetski fun and thrill on your scenic ride in ...
Experience the fun and thrill of a Jetski ride!
from NZ $149.00
30 Mins 
from NZ $80.00
1 Hours 30 Mins 
Kayak & Walk Tour - Franz Josef Glacier
Exclusive access to a private rainforest track through a kiwi conservation area
from NZ $179.00
4 Hours 
from NZ $30.00
1 Hours 
from NZ $155.00
from NZ $149.00
Allow 2.5 hours
Sea Kayaking, Lyttelton Harbour & Quail I...
Sea kayaking in an extinct volcano (Lyttleton Harbour)
from NZ $479.00
8 Hours 
from NZ $120.00
3 hours 
Whitewater Grade 3
Raft the Upper Tongariro River and wonder at the sights you can only experience by raft
from NZ $199.00
Allow 4-4.5 hours
from NZ $139.00
1 Hours 
from NZ $199
3 hours 30 mins
from NZ $375.00
5 Hours 
Cathedral Cove Dive & Snorkel Boat Tour Hahei...
Visit Cathedral Cove on the way - 5 minutes boat ride to Marine Reserve from Hahei Beach
from NZ $149.00
2 Hours 
Full-Day Routeburn Canyoning Adventure – Qu...
Exclusive access to the Routeburn Valley, as the only canyoning company permitted to operate there.
from NZ $429.00
8 Hours 
from NZ $319
2 hours 20 mins
Mt Aspiring Full Day Canyoning Adventure
Located in the Mt Aspiring national park a UNESCO world heritage site
from NZ $499
9 Hours 30 Mins 
from NZ $400.00
7 Hours 
from NZ $135.00
2 Hours 
Rotorua Rafting: Kaituna River Grade 5 Raftin...
Feel the thrill of whitewater rafting over 3 waterfalls and 14 rapids
from NZ $135.00
2 Hours 
from NZ $399
9 hours 
from NZ $150.00
2 Hours 
Gibbston Valley Canyoning Half Day Adventure
Fun and exciting introduction to the sport of canyoning
from NZ $219.00
4 Hours 
Eco Sailing Adventure ex Waiheke
Explore the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park aboard our 41-foot catamaran Pacific Star
from NZ $730.00
7 Hours 
from NZ $1450.00
5 Hours 
from NZ $70.00
1 Hours 
from NZ $280.00
4 Hours 30 Mins 
from NZ $99.00
1 Hours 
from NZ $119.00
2 Hours 30 Mins
from NZ $150.00
2 Hours 
from NZ $169.00
2 Hours 
from NZ $199.00
Allow 4-4.5 hours
from NZ $215.00
6 Hours 
from NZ $235.00
1 Hours 
from NZ $3100.00
9 Hours 
Twilight Kayak Glowworm Tour
Glowworms surrounding you as you float through a prehistoric like canyon
from NZ $199.00
3 Hours 
Whangamata Discover - Scenic Boat Tour
Explore Whangamatā’s ancient volcanic coastline, the Lost Volcano of Whangamatā
from NZ $119.00
1 Hours 30 Mins 
from NZ $139.00
3 Hours 
100% Pure NZ - Raft the Kaituna River - Grade...
Tackle the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall, the 7m Tutea Falls
from NZ $139.00
3 Hours 
from NZ $2000.00
7 Hours 
Jetski Rental
Rent a jet ski from 1/2hr to 8 hrs. and explore the Hauraki gulf.
from NZ $120.00
Ngawha Springs Geothermal Hot Pools
16 Geothermal pools with unique characteristics, differing temperatures, colors and minerals
from NZ $40.00
2 Hours 
from NZ $130.00
1 Hours 
Canyoning - Piha Full Day
Learning to canyon with our friendly canyon guides
from NZ $255.00
from NZ $3300.00
8 Hours 
Muriwai Surf School - Surf Lesson
A kiwi family owned and operated business that has been teaching people to surf for over 20 years!
from NZ $80.00
1 hours 30 mins
Whenuakura (Donut) Island Guided Experience
Explore Whenuakura - Donut - Island
from NZ $105.00
2 Hours 
Sledging
Sledge New Zealand’s best white water on a sturdy buoyant board that is easy to manoeuvre.
from NZ $280.00
4 Hours 30 Mins 
from NZ $329.00
5 Hours 
Explore New Zealands most beautiful river
Paddle New Zealands most beautiful river
from NZ $215.00
4 Hours 
Canyon Explorers - Half Day Canyoning Adventu...
A fast-paced introduction to canyoning, just a short drive from central Queenstown.
from NZ $249.00
4 Hours 
Yonder Star - Private Sailing Yacht
Sail aboard the luxurious 87-foot private yacht, Yonder Star
from NZ $11000.00
from NZ $35.00
1 Hours 
from NZ $399.00
8 Hours Travel Guides
Frequently Asked Questions about Water Sports, River & Ocean Adventures
Where is the water sports capital of New Zealand?
New Zealand offers excellent water sports across both the North and South Islands, but Queenstown is widely regarded as the water sports capital of New Zealand.
Queenstown is one of the most renowned destinations for thrilling water activities such as jet boating, white-water rafting, kayaking, paddleboarding, and lake cruises. Its location beside Lake Wakatipu and nearby rivers makes it a top spot for adventure water sports. Other popular water sports destinations include the Bay of Islands for sailing, kayaking, and snorkelling, and Taupō for lake-based activities and water adventures.
What are the top water sports tours in New Zealand?
The top water sports tours in New Zealand include white-water rafting on the Kaituna River, sunset sea kayaking to Rangitoto Island in Auckland, seal kayaking near Kaikōura, stand-up paddleboarding in Tauranga, and high-speed jet boating in Kaikōura.
Are water sports good for beginners?
Yes, water sports in New Zealand are great for beginners because many tours are guided, provide safety equipment, and take place on calm waters, making them perfect for first-timers; for example, the Stand Up Paddle Adventure in Tauranga, the City Lights Kayak Tour in Auckland, and the Seal Kayak Tour near Kaikōura all offer beginner-friendly experiences with expert guidance.
Do water sports include guided tours?
Yes, many water sports in New Zealand include guided tours where experienced leaders provide instruction, safety briefings, and local insights to make the experience fun and safe; for example, the Seal Kayak Tour in Kaikōura lets you explore coastal waters with expert guides, the Guided Sea Kayak Safari in Akaroa takes you through sheltered bays with wildlife commentary, and the Nelson Night Paddle Tour offers a guided evening paddle with all gear and support included.
What can I do in the water in the Bay of Plenty?
In the Bay of Plenty, you can enjoy a variety of water activities ranging from peaceful paddling to fun coastal experiences, and the most popular tours listed include the Stand Up Paddle Adventure in Tauranga and the Waka Ama Adventure (outrigger canoe) in Mount Maunganui, both of which let you explore the region’s beautiful harbours and calm waters while taking in scenic coastal views.
Water Sports Adventures in New Zealand
New Zealand is a world-renowned destination for water sports adventures in New Zealand, offering a spectacular mix of lakes, rivers, and coastline that are perfect for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. From the adrenaline rush of white-water rafting to serene kayaking through hidden bays, there is a water-based adventure to suit every traveller. Whether you are an experienced water sports enthusiast or trying something new for the first time, New Zealand provides unforgettable experiences surrounded by stunning scenery.
Visitors can explore the country’s waterways in numerous ways. Kayaking tours allow you to glide through pristine fjords like Milford Sound or the sheltered waters of Queen Charlotte Sound, often spotting dolphins, seals, and native birdlife along the way. Jet boating on the Shotover or Kawarau Rivers delivers high-speed thrills through dramatic gorges, while stand-up paddleboarding offers a more relaxed way to connect with the natural environment. Scenic cruises along New Zealand’s iconic fjords and coastal regions combine adventure with awe-inspiring views, making them perfect for both families and solo travellers.
Planning your water sports adventures in New Zealand is straightforward, with expert guides, top-quality equipment, and tailored itineraries available across the country. From single-day excursions to multi-day tours, these experiences are designed to be safe, exhilarating, and deeply memorable. Whether paddling through tranquil waters, navigating rapids, or taking in panoramic views from a boat, water sports in New Zealand offer a unique way to discover the country’s natural beauty while enjoying adventure at every turn.
Top Destinations
Explore some of New Zealand’s most popular travel destinations.
