Kaikōura Kayaks

Kaikōura Kayaks has been paddling the Kaikōura Peninsula since 1998, making them the region's longest-running kayak operator. Their guided wildlife tours take guests through coastal waters to encounter NZ fur seals, blue penguins, and chance encounters with dusky dolphins — and as the only sea kayak operator in New Zealand with a marine mammal permit to view whales, they offer something truly unique. Tours use stable, enclosed double sea kayaks with cockpits, spray skirts and rudders, with Gore-Tex dry pants and wetsuit booties provided for colder months. No experience required. Options include morning wildlife tours, sunset evening tours, and private tours — all departing five minutes from the base in Kaikōura Village

Inclusive statement

The Kaikōura Kayaks team tailors every trip to individual abilities with a genuine "if it's possible, we'll make it happen" attitude. They work with MakingTrax to adapt tours for guests of all abilities, and have experience welcoming guests with significant mobility needs — including quadriplegic paddlers — onto the water.

Good to know

Padded seating support systems are available to assist guests with reduced trunk function or limited mobility. The stable, enclosed kayak design with cockpit and spray skirt keeps guests warm, dry and secure on the water. Contact MakingTrax or our team directly with at least two days notice before your trip — include your ability, weight and contact number. The kayak tour departs 5 minutes drive from the base in Kaikōura Village. All tours are subject to weather and sea conditions. Please contact us directly, or MakingTrax for adaptive trips