Kayaking and Evening Tour

This experience is ideal for those with a good level of fitness who wish to spend an extended period exploring the natural beauty of Pohatu Bay. The adventure begins with a scenic ride to Pohatu, complete with photo stops and informative commentary along the way. Upon arrival, participants prepare for the kayaking trip with a safety briefing and a wildlife code to ensure respectful interactions with the environment. Once on the water, guided paddling allows visitors to explore the bay while spotting resident wildlife, including New Zealand fur seals, Hector’s dolphins that frequently visit, penguins on the rocks during the season, and a variety of seabirds. In calm conditions, participants may even explore deep sea caves, all under the guidance of knowledgeable local experts who know the best locations to observe the bay’s remarkable marine life.

After kayaking, there is free time to relax or explore nearby walking tracks through ancient forest before the evening penguin tour begins. Guests have access to bathroom facilities for showers and a communal kitchen to prepare dinner. The evening activity starts from the Helps homestead with a conservation walk and talk, offering the opportunity to monitor penguin nesting boxes up close. The tour continues to hillside hides overlooking the bay, where visitors can observe penguins socializing on the water and, just before nightfall, potentially witness penguins returning to shore to feed their chicks. The experience concludes before it gets fully dark, ensuring the penguins can reach their nests safely while guests enjoy a close and respectful encounter with these unique animals.