Tauranga: Evening Glowworm Kayak Tour

Overview

Available languages

German

English

French

3 hours 15 minutes

Mobile ticket

Mount Maunganui and Tauranga are the central areas for this kayak tour - it uses double kayaks on the calm sheltered waters of Lake McLaren. The tour operates in the evening due to the visibility of the glow worms..

As the evening unfolds, begin your journey with a short scenic drive through rolling countryside, you’ll arrive at the breath taking Lake McLaren. Here, you’ll be welcomed with “Te Reka O Te Whenua- the Taste of the Land” a curated tasting session featuring flavours unique to Aotearoa. Savour the flavours of New Zealand Cheeses, sweet RewaRewa honey, and other artisanal delights, perfectly paired with locally brewed kombucha. In the cooler months, sip on warm, spiced 0% mulled wine to keep you warm.

Additional Info

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

A minimum of 2 people per booking is required to commence a tour

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

Light refreshments

Kayak and equipment

Professional guide

GST (Goods and Services Tax)

Options

2023/24

Reviews

4.87

292 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

264

Must do!
Ellen N,
Mar 3, 2025
- Viator
5.00
This was such a unique experience and a must do! Luckily we had perfect weather as well so not only were the glow worms amazing, but we had a beautiful sunset while kayaking and could see the milky way once it was dark so to the remoteness of the area. Ellie was a fantastic guide :)
We enjoyed this! No...
Elaine S,
Feb 18, 2025
- Viator
4.00
We enjoyed this! No alcoholic drink or sunset to start with but the kayak trip to see the glow worms was cool.
Better Than Any Other Glow Worm Tour
Amanda P,
Feb 7, 2025
- Viator
5.00
An incredible experience not to be missed. I’ve done glow worm tours both in a cave and via this tour in a kayak through the canyon and this one is far and above any cave experience I’ve had. Moonlight kayaking also just cannot be beat! You also get cheese, crackers, fruit, and a beverage at the beginning which makes this tour way more worth the money than any other glow worm tour I’ve done.
Kia Ora for the fun!
Lisa P,
Dec 30, 2024
- Viator
5.00
Euan and Craig were great hosts! We were collected from our hotel. We met the rest of the group at Waimarino Adventure Park and then took a short bus ride to McLaren Falls. There were nibbles and refreshments upon arrival, then the safety brief and we got going! Make sure you take them up on their offers of warm fleeces, jackets and the kayak skirts and life jackets. The kayaking was fun and reasonable effort was required. Lots of fun conversations, songs and then the “glow worms” - AMAZING! A highlight of our trip!
Like Stars in the Night Sky
JaniceF W,
Nov 26, 2024
- Viator
5.00
Highly recommend this unique adventure!! Our incredible guide, Leo, met us with a genuine smile and chatted with us right off. We were introduced to the only other couple going with us, which made for a very intimate small group experience. After a short can ride, Leo set up a delicious assortment of fruit, cheese and crackers for us to enjoy. He was well versed in teaching us the proper way to "dress" and handle the paddle and boats for our kayaking experience. Leo stopped numerous times on the water to share his knowledge of the river and it's flora and fauna. As the skies darkened we paddled and enjoyed the serene peacefullness. We met with another long boat and Leo shared a traditional Maori legend about the glow worms then the other guide shared the scientific aspect of it. We were surrounded by lovely glowing orbs in different patterns. Paddled back in the darkness with Leo's expert guiding. Loved it!!