Whangamatā Sunrise: Whenuakura Willife Sanctuary by kayak

Whangamatā Sunrise: Whenuakura Willife Sanctuary by kayak

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Beginner Level but can vary with weather    |   TIME : 3 HOURS

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At first light, the coastline of Whangamatā feels untouched—calm seas, golden skies, and the quiet rhythm of a land shaped by fire. This intimate sunrise tour, limited to just eight guests, offers a slower, more personal journey along an ancient volcanic coastline, where stories are revealed in the details.

As you travel, your guide shares the origins of the land, pointing out fragments of Obsidian—a powerful link between geology and Māori culture. In the soft morning light, you’ll reach Whenuakura Island, its hidden lagoon glowing with stillness and reflection.

The journey continues to the remote Rawengaiti Island, part of a protected sanctuary once home to the ancient Tuatara. Here, nature feels undisturbed, offering a rare sense of connection to New Zealand’s ecological past.

Onshore, pause beneath native bush to share a warm cup of Kawakawa tea—an earthy, traditional Māori remedy that grounds the experience in culture and wellbeing.

Over 180 minutes, this private, small-group tour blends landscape, history, and culture into a sunrise experience that feels both timeless and deeply personal.

Highlights:

• Sunrise small-group tour (max 8 guests) in Whangamatā
  


• Visit Whenuakura Island and explore an ancient volcanic coastline
  


• Discover Obsidian and Māori cultural connections to the land
  


• Explore Rawengaiti Island and learn about native wildlife including the Tuatara
  


• Enjoy traditional Kawakawa tea in a peaceful natural setting

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COST INCLUDES:

• Kayak & Paddle set up on the beach
• Local Guide
• Life Jacket
• Dry Bag
• Wetsuit
• KawaKawa Tea

REQUIREMENTS

• No major health issues
• Medium level of fitness     
• Be able to deal with waves and windy conditions   
• If you are scared of water or waves please think twice before booking this option as there is a chance of capsizing your kayak
  
• Age over 4 years old

WHAT TO BRING

• Sun Block
• Hat
• Bottle of water
• Swimming clothes (Lycra shirt is ideal)

WHERE TO MEET

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WEATHER

Please observe that all tours and hires are weather dependent. Conditions can change on daily and even hourly basis we request all customers to call before hand to confirm their bookings. We are not responsible for any inconvenience if tours have to be cancelled last minute due to weather conditions.

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ACCOMMODATION

If you are looking to spend the night in Whangamata and are
looking for accommodation check out accommodation options here.