Overview
2 hours
Mobile ticket
One of Taupō’s best kept secrets… the sheer beauty and tranquillity found on the crystal-clear waters of the Waikato River will take your breath away. Begin your kayaking journey at the source of NZ’s largest river and drift past various islands, nature reserves, swimming spots, the drop zone of Taupō Bungy before swimming or soaking your feet in warm geothermal pools enroute. This is an extremely scenic, guided tour that is perfect for beginners, families, couples, and friends.
The tour is approx. 1.15 hrs on the water (2hrs return trip including transport) depending on group size and river flow. We start & finish at the store (54 Spa Rd, Taupo), then transport you to and from the river. A 5 minute walk from the store to the river may be required.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
All children must be accompanied by an adult
Children under the age of 12 must have a 1:1 ratio with an adult.
A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
Operates all year, please dress appropriately for the seasons - NO JEANS/DENIM
What To Expect
Kayaking down the beautiful Waikato River, soak your feet in the warm natural geothermal hot pools, pass islands, natural reserves and underneath the Taupo Bungy and Extreme Swing. Please note that a minimum of four bookings are required for a tour to proceed, contact us directly for single bookings. Age limit 4-80.
Options
9am, 12pm, 2pm, 3pm Departure
9am, 12pm, 2pm, 3pm Departure : One of Taupo's best kept secrets... The sheer beauty and tranquility found on the crystal clear waters of the Waikato River will take your breath away. Begin your kayaking journey at the source of NZ
What‘s Included
Professional guide
All equipment
Lunch
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
173 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
So worth it!!!!!
Julia A,May 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Doug was so great and kind! Very fun! Super chill vibe! Very experienced and full of knowledge!
Taupo - 2 hour kayaking
Ron S,May 16, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Terrific experience ! Doug is a tremendous tour guide. Website is easy to navigate. A must-do activity when in the Taupo area.
fun for the whole family
Jennie C,Apr 16, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00amazing experience we had and beautiful view we experienced. absolutely loved it and would do it again.
Great experience
M9634FZaaronw,Apr 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Would highly recommend! I took the kids with me, great time
Waikato Paddle
Jason D,Apr 5, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00No real kayaking experience required. It is more of a float with some paddling than a kayaking effort. But well worth it and enjoyable.
Great day on the river!
Kate S,Mar 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00An easy paddle downstream, beautiful clear water, with a couple of stops for swimming and a dip in the hot pool. Lovely way to spend a couple of hours on part of the river otherwise hidden from view. Thank you to our awesome guide Glen!
Awesome
charmainer975,Mar 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had such a great time. Our guide was fantastic, the river was beautiful. We all jumped in for a swim which was an awesome experience.
Amazing!
nellj2026,Feb 18, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Super fun! River was beautiful and Connell was so great and interesting! We had a blast and would recommend to anyone :)
A great trip - even in the rain!
Sue L,Feb 13, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Definitely wear swimsuits and flip flops for this, even if you don’t want to swim at the hot water spot. It much easier to get in and out of the boat. We felt very safe and thoroughly enjoyed the trip. Our guide was really knowledgeable too.
A nice relaxing float
lucasj500,Feb 10, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The team were amazing and friendly. Connel our guide was super encouraging and friendly and shared lots of info on the area. Really made the experience! The water was clear the hot springs were wonderful. Thanks team
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Operated by Canoe and Kayak Taupo