Overview
Available languages
4 hours
Mobile ticket
Discover Browns Island's rich history near Auckland. Horses were swum across the harbor by early settlers, while Māori thrived with farming and fishing centuries ago, leaving behind remnants of pā sites. Even more intriguingly, remnants of the Sydney mud cockle were found within volcanic shell beds.
In 1909, New Zealand's aviation history took flight as Alex and Claude Barnard launched a homemade flying machine from the island's peak, marking the nation's first aeroplane trials.
Browns Island is a volcanic cone from an eruption 25,000 years ago, part of the active Auckland Volcanic Field. Now uninhabited, it's a recreational reserve turned wildlife sanctuary, home to native birds like tūī, pūkeko, silvereye, as well as unique wildlife such as skinks and geckos.
For students and researchers, Browns Island offers educational opportunities in volcanology, geology, and environmental conservation, making it an ideal field study destination.
Additional Info
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What To Expect
Hauraki Gulf
Embark on a sea kayak expedition from Auckland CBD to Browns Island (Motukorea). Designed for beginners, this journey presents breathtaking vistas of Hauraki Gulf and Waitemata Harbour. Observe marine creatures, avian species, and even potential dolphin and whale sightings.
Browns Island
Uncover the untouched volcanic island's scenic allure and historical remnants. Serving as a wildlife haven and educational hub, Browns Island promises an immersive experience.
Options
Private Booking
Private Experience
Browns Island Sea Kayak Tour
What‘s Included
Life jacket, kayak, paddle
Coffee and/or Tea
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
10 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Fantastic kayak and island exploration. We loved it!
bondy125,Feb 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A great way to explore an island with paddling and an informative walk built in . 2 great guides in Millie and Legend - lots of enthusiasm and great local knowledge.
It’ll be fun they said!
Dream15928905482,Dec 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00And it was lots of fun. Legend was a great guide, with great knowledge about the harbour and islands. Highly recommend to anyone even those who have minimal experience.
Awesome day trip
G1155RVtanyam,Dec 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Had an amazing trip across to Browns Island. We explored the island. The guide Legend was a wealth of knowledge. The weather was superb. We had a couple of people not so confident of the water and he took great care of them. Would highly recommend this tour.
"Perfect Half Day Adventure: Kayak Tour on Browns Island "
Mobile32129682065,Apr 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00“I had an amazing time on the Browns Island kayak tour! The spot was beautiful and provided a perfect balance of exercise and relaxation. Kayaking to the island, walking and stopping for photo ops, and swimming in the clear waters made for a memorable experience. It was so nice to be surrounded by nature while learning about the history of this Auckland gem. The team was professional and made the experience even better. I’m truly grateful for such a lovely day outdoors!”
We did not make it to the...
Niem N,Mar 9, 2025
- Review from Viator
3.00We did not make it to the Browns Island as plan. We were novice and inexperience with the kayak that were used. The tour is probably more suitable for people with some kayaking experience in the sea but the tour guide Chris was friendly and helpful.
Amazing Experience
Cherry1995A,Feb 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was an amazing experience! Ben was an excellent guide, felt safe the whole trip! Funny and relaxed guy. Recommend that trip! Easy hike to the top!
SNM all the way ya'll
dileeshaa2024,Dec 4, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Browns Island with SNM is highly recommended by us. We scootered to them along the waterfront. They provided drinks and food and took care of the whole trip so seemlessly. Thanks thanks thanks
Kayaking adventure to Browns Island
E1781JCbarbw,Nov 6, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a very fun time with Chris on our kayaking adventure. Beautiful day on the water and the Browns Island was so interesting and of course great views. Chris was a trooper since we were dealing with some sea sickness and he helped us deal with that kindly. Great tour and I would highly recommend it - try and get Chris he was great!
Browns Island tour
OnAir07985843244,Oct 16, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Browns Island was a great kayak tour with a fabulous company. The guide David was knowledgeable and we felt safe. Really cool being in a big city and having this island to ourselves that day
An excellent, unmissable experience
Felicia E,Feb 5, 2024
- Review from Viator
5.00Both my friend and I were in awe of our instructors wealth of knowledge of the area and the story behind it, would highly recommend this experience to anyone considering the Kay’s king experience
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