Viator Rating : 5 (79 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 7.9/10 (Solid Experience)
Auckland
Rangitoto Island Kayak Tour: Auckland's Volcanic Views
390
Overview
Day Sea Kayak Tour Rangitoto Island lets visitors explore Auckland's iconic landmark from a unique perspective. This kayaking adventure crosses the Waitemata Harbour—meaning 'sparkling waters'—where lucky kayakers might spot Little Blue Penguins and Cooks Petrels.
Upon landing on Rangitoto Island, Auckland's youngest and largest volcano, a guided one-hour walk to the summit begins. The trail winds through a forest of native trees and flowering plants, all growing from the island's unique scoria rocks. The top rewards visitors with unmatched 360-degree views of the Auckland region.
This tour includes top-quality kayaking gear, small group sizes, and experienced guides. It's perfect for those with little to no kayaking experience and includes a BBQ lunch with coffee and tea. It does not include anything additional to what is listed. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Safety (9 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Upsell Risk (9 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Logistics (8 - Seamless) : Smooth and well executed
Pacing (8 - Balanced) : Smooth and comfortable timing
Instagram Factor (9 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
Guide Quality (9 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (9 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Crowd Density (5 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots
Mobility (5 - Moderate) : Some effort required
Highlights
Paddle Across Sparkling Waters: Kayak across the Waitemata Harbour and keep an eye out for local wildlife, including Little Blue Penguins!
Hike to Volcanic Summit: Enjoy a guided walk through lush forests to the top of Rangitoto Island, Auckland's youngest volcano.
360° Auckland Views: Be amazed by the best panoramic views of the Auckland region from the island's summit.
Delicious Kiwi BBQ Lunch: Refuel with a tasty BBQ lunch, complete with coffee and tea, after your kayaking and hiking adventures.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved the friendly and knowledgeable guides.
-
Many enjoyed the stunning views from the summit of Rangitoto Island.
-
Several reviewers highlighted the fun and informative trek.
-
The BBQ lunch was a hit with many participants.
Some reviewers mentioned that the kayaking can be tiring for beginners.
-
A few customers felt that the walk to the summit was challenging.
The Journey
Waitemata Harbour
Waitemata Harbour, meaning 'sparkling waters', is a significant body of water in Auckland, known for its scenic beauty and diverse marine life, including Little Blue Penguins and Cooks Petrels. It serves as the gateway to Rangitoto Island and offers stunning views of the Auckland skyline.
Rangitoto Island
Rangitoto Island is the largest and youngest of Auckland's volcanoes, characterized by its unique volcanic landscape and pohutukawa forests. The island is home to over 200 native trees and flowering plants, offering a rich biodiversity. Its summit provides panoramic 360-degree views of the Auckland region.
Rangitoto Summit
The summit of Rangitoto Island offers the finest 360-degree views of the Auckland region. Reaching the summit involves a one-hour trek through unique volcanic terrain and native forests.
Know Before You Go
This experience includes top-quality sea kayak equipment, small friendly groups, experienced guides, and is suitable for people with little to no kayaking experience. Coffee, tea, and a fully catered BBQ lunch are also provided. This tour does not include anything beyond what is listed here. Please contact the tour provider directly for pickup and drop-off information, as it may be available from central Auckland near the Auckland Museum.
Hot Tip
Customers recommend bringing sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. Even on a cloudy day, the sun can be strong. Wearing comfortable walking shoes is also important for the hike to the summit.
Review Summary
Customers finds this tour to be highly enjoyable, praising the knowledgeable guides, scenic views, and the unique experience of kayaking to Rangitoto Island. Many highlight the BBQ lunch and the chance to see wildlife as standout features. Some mention the physical demands of the walk to the summit, but most agree it is manageable for all fitness levels. A few travelers note that weather can impact the experience, but the operators are responsive and flexible with cancellations or rescheduling.
Frequently Asked Questions
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
More like this
Tauranga
$135
Conquer the Kaituna: Original White Water Rafting Adventure!
5.0
(1263 reviews)
Duration: 120
minutes
Experience the thrill with Kaituna Cascades, pioneers of Kaituna River rafting! Descend into a vertical canyon with raftable waterfalls and playful rapids. Enjoy warm waters and expert guides for a safe, fun, and unforgettable adventure in New Zealand's best value rafting. All gear provided for this epic, once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Whitianga
$150
Cathedral Cove's Underwater Wonders: A Glass-Bottom Boat Adventure
5.0
(921 reviews)
Duration: 120
minutes
The Glass Bottom Boat Whitianga Cathedral Cove Cruise offers a unique, dry way to explore marine life. Experience the beauty of the ocean through clear glass panels. With passionate crew dedicated to conservation, enjoy a safe, small-group tour perfect for spotting diverse sea creatures in the marine reserve. Suitable for all skill levels.
Whitianga
$140
Cathedral Cove Eco-Adventure: Explore Coast & Caves in Comfort!
5.0
(241 reviews)
Duration: 150
minutes
Cathedral Cove Coast and Cave Activity offers a stable, eco-friendly catamaran tour. Enjoy ample space, excellent visibility, and access for all, including wheelchair users. Snorkel, swim, and shower with fresh water. Tea and coffee are available. Discover the stunning scenery while staying dry and comfortable, a unique on the water experience.
Auckland
$195
Kayak to Auckland's Volcanic Browns Island: A Guided Journey
5.0
(35 reviews)
Duration: 240
minutes
Motukorea / Browns Island Sea Kayak Journey offers a relaxed escape to the Hauraki Gulf. Perfect for beginners, this tour explores Motukorea (Browns Island), a well-preserved volcano in the Auckland Volcanic Field. Access to this untouched island is exclusively by private boat or kayak.
Upon arrival, there is a chance to hike to the summit for spectacular panoramic views and a glimpse into the island's rich history. The island features three pa sites (Maori fortified village), the largest of which is located on the slopes of the main scoria cone. Motukorea has a fascinating history. It was cultivated by local Maori pre-European arrival and was the first home of Sir Logan Campbell and William Brown, considered the founders of Auckland city.
Light refreshments are served on the island before the return journey to the sheltered waters. This kayak journey includes top-quality equipment, small groups, experienced guides, and fresh morning tea. It excludes any other expense. Free Auckland City Center pick up and drop off available on request.
Auckland
$245
Auckland's Sunset Kayak & Rangitoto Summit Adventure
4.9
(167 reviews)
Duration: 390
minutes
Sunset Kayak Tour to Rangitoto Island: Paddle across Auckland's waters to Rangitoto, hike to the summit for stunning sunset views, and kayak back under the stars. Enjoy a catered BBQ dinner and expert guidance, suitable for all kayaking levels. A unique blend of adventure and natural beauty.
Auckland
$82.06
Catch a Wave: 2-Hour Surf Lesson at Te Arai Beach
4.9
(119 reviews)
Duration: 150
minutes
2 Hour Surf Lesson at Te Arai Beach offers a thrilling introduction to surfing on Auckland's East Coast. Suitable for all skill levels, learn essential techniques from experienced instructors in a safe, sandy-bottom environment. Enjoy consistent waves and personalized coaching to ride your first wave by the lesson's end. A fun, educational experience awaits!
Nearby Events
Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre
May 03
6:00 PMK.S. Chithra Chithravarnam Auckland Tickets
K.S. Chithra brings her enchanting Chithravarnam performance to Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre in Auckland, promising an evening of melodic bliss from the legendary playback singer. Known as the 'Melody Queen of Indian music,' Chithra captivates with her versatile voice spanning classical Carnatic roots to Bollywood hits, delivering timeless tracks that have defined generations.
K.S. Chithra's illustrious career boasts over 25,000 songs in multiple languages, earning her the Padma Bhushan and six National Film Awards, making her a global icon in South Indian cinema and beyond. The prestigious Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre, with its superior acoustics and 2,100 seats, has hosted stars like Ed Sheeran and Dame Kiri Te Kanawa herself.[3][6]
Eden Park
Mar 29
11:00 AMEmma Memma Picnic Eden Park Tickets
Emma Memma's Picnic at Eden Park Presented by tonies® brings the beloved children's entertainer, formerly known as the Yellow Wiggle Emma Watkins, to Auckland's iconic stadium for a family-friendly musical adventure. Emma Memma, a two-time ARIA Award-winning artist, captivates young audiences with her energetic performances blending music, dance, and sign language alongside her sidekick Elvin Melvin.
Emma Memma has risen to fame with hits like those from her new album Dance Island Party, drawing 224K monthly Spotify listeners and thrilling Kiwi families across New Zealand from Auckland to Dunedin. Eden Park, renowned for rugby, cricket, and innovative events like rooftop ziplines and concerts, transforms into a picnic paradise for this inclusive show.
Great Hall, Auckland Town Hall
Apr 17
8:00 PMPaco Peña Flamenco Concert Tickets Auckland
Paco Peña Flamenco in Concert brings the passionate art of flamenco to the Great Hall at Auckland Town Hall. This immersive concert captivates audiences with Paco Peña's masterful solo guitar performance, followed by a vibrant ensemble of dancers, singers, and musicians showcasing the fiery rhythms and emotions of Andalucía.
Recognized as the world’s greatest flamenco guitarist, Paco Peña’s performance is a blend of timeless Spanish tradition and universal emotional expression. The Great Hall, known for its superb acoustics and historic atmosphere, provides the perfect setting for this unforgettable cultural experience.
Bruce Mason Centre
Mar 29
7:30 PMChris Williamson Live: Mostly Wise Tickets
Chris Williamson Live - Mostly Wise brings the host of the chart-topping Modern Wisdom podcast to the Bruce Mason Centre in Takapuna Beach, NZ, for an unmissable live exploration of life's deepest questions. Expect sharp wit, profound insights, and interactive discussions drawn from his conversations with over 800 leading thinkers like Jordan Peterson, Andrew Huberman, and David Goggins, delivering wisdom on personal growth, psychology, and modern challenges in a dynamic theatre setting.
Chris Williamson, a former Love Island contestant turned influential podcaster and speaker, has amassed over 500 million downloads on Modern Wisdom since 2018, topping global charts with episodes blending philosophy, science, and self-improvement. The Bruce Mason Centre, a premier waterfront venue on Takapuna Beach, offers stunning views and excellent acoustics for intimate arts and theatre experiences.
Bruce Mason Centre
July 05
7:00 PMJefferson Fisher: Master Communication Skills Live
A Conversation with Jefferson Fisher brings the renowned communication expert and board-certified trial lawyer to Bruce Mason Centre in Takapuna Beach, New Zealand. Jefferson Fisher is one of the most sought-after voices on functional thinking and persuasive communication, known for his practical strategies that help people turn everyday conversations into meaningful exchanges. With over 9 million social media followers—making him the most followed litigation attorney in the world—Fisher has built a global audience through authentic, accessible content about arguing less and talking more.[1][2]
Jefferson Fisher's expertise stems from years of high-conflict trial law combined with his viral content success, which has made him a trusted advisor to Fortune 500 companies and millions of individuals worldwide.[2][6] His bestselling book, The Next Conversation: Argue Less, Talk More*, spent five weeks on the New York Times Best Seller list and distills his proven three-part communication system.[3] Bruce Mason Centre, Takapuna Beach's premier venue, provides an intimate setting for this transformative event where attendees will learn actionable techniques to enhance their professional and personal interactions.
Bruce Mason Centre
Mar 13
7:00 PMSchalk Bezuidenhout: Hey Hey Divorce at Bruce Mason Centre
Schalk Bezuidenhout brings his comedy show "Hey Hey Divorce" to the Bruce Mason Centre in Takapuna Beach, New Zealand. One of South Africa's most exciting contemporary comedic voices, Schalk delivers high-energy performances that appeal to audiences of all kinds with his unique blend of Afrikaans-influenced humor and sharp social observation. Since launching his stand-up career in 2011, he has evolved from performing in intimate strip clubs to commanding stages across the globe alongside world-class comedians.
Born and raised in Kempton Park, Johannesburg, Schalk is known for his distinctive style—from his scruffy hair and bold fashion choices to his fun, engaging stage presence that keeps audiences captivated. The Bruce Mason Centre, Takapuna's premier performing arts venue, provides an ideal setting for this compelling live comedy experience.
The Bucket List Playbook: Top Things to do in Auckland
Ready for adventure? Dyvarcity is your ultimate guide to the top 100 things to do in Auckland From must-see attractions like Short Term Availability, Music, Bus Tours & Arts & Theatre in Auckland. We've handpicked events & experiences with passion: whether you love activities that move your body, vibrant music, sports, food, or cultural explorations.
View Auckland Activities