Up to 70% off thermal clothing - Sale ends 2nd Oct. Shop now

Waikato River Float Tour – Taupō​

Adults $90, Child $54, Family $260 including Kaitiaki contribution*

Tours are run on demand, minimum numbers apply.
One of Taupō’s best kept secrets… the sheer beauty and tranquility found on the crystal clear waters of the Waikato River will take your breath away. Begin your kayaking journey at the source of NZ’s largest river and drift past various islands, nature reserves, swimming spots, the drop zone of Taupō Bungy before soaking in Natural Hot Pools enroute.  Complimentary refreshments and photos are included. This is an extremely scenic, guided tour that is perfect for beginners, families, couples and friends.

Tour Details

The tour is approx. 1.15 hrs on the water (2hrs return trip including transport) depending on group size and river flow.
We start & finish at the store (54 Spa Rd, Taupo), then transport you to and from the river.
You can leave your valuables in a secure locked area.
This tour is suitable for children 4yrs+ (each child must be accompanied by an adult).
Choose from a selection of double or single kayaks.
Please arrive 15 minutes before your tour is scheduled to depart.
Tours run throughout the year in fair weather conditions.
No experience necessary.
Bookings essential.

What’s Included?

Fully guided by qualified, friendly and knowledgable kayak instructors.
All kayaking and safety equipment – including waterproof jackets
All tuition and courtesy vehicle available
Complimentary images of your tour

Departure Times

Please select book now for up-to-date departure times or call us on +64 7 378 1003

* Kaitiaki is the Māori word for the Guardian of the Environment. This is collected on behalf of the local iwi for their role in taking care of Lake Taupō and the Waikato River.

Safety Terms and Customer Declaration

In any adventure activity, there is an element of risk involved. Risks in undertaking this activity include drowning, illness as a result of adverse weather conditions, water damage to personal belongings, and contact with wildlife.
The Staff and management of Canoe & Kayak take all practicable steps to identify and mimimise potential dangers. However, you must follow our instructions and use the provided safety equipment at all times. Adults accompanying any person under the age of 18 must ensure the underage person follows our instructions at all times. You must release or indemnify Canoe & Kayak and our staff against any liability we incur to anyone else, resulting from your failure to follow our instructions or the failure of any person accompanying you under the age of 18 to follow our instructions.
We reserve the right to withdraw any person who in our opinion is likely to endanger themselves or others. We also reserve the right to cancel the tour if we become concerned for any reason for your safety or that of any other person.

WARNING: Under New Zealand law it is extremely unlikely that you will be able to sue anyone if you are injured. In Addition, New Zealand’s accident compensation scheme provides only limited assistance to visitors to New Zealand who are injured. We strongly recommend that all visitors to New Zealand have full insurance covering any injury they might suffer, including medical treatment cover, before undertaking this activity.

EXCLUSIONS: To the extent permitted by law, all our liability for damage to your property, disruption to travel plans, or mental injury is excluded. This exclusion is subject to any rights or remedies you may have under the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993.
Please notify us of any medical conditions or other information we need to know to include you safely in this activity. For example: asthma, allergies, heart conditions, epilepsy, or pregnancy.

You are entitled to access any information we hold about you or to request its correction at any time.

Rob took us on a journey along the mighty Waikato river, stopping below the stunning Taupo Bungy jump site and making time for us to soak in the famous spa park thermal hot springs, it was the most relaxing kayaking trip we’ve ever experienced.
Robin

Tours are run on demand, minimum numbers apply.

Had an amazing morning. I found it was a very easy ride even though we were both reasonably inexperienced kayakers. The surroundings were breathtaking and tranquil. We had 2 tour guides and both were extremely down to earth, funny and knowledgeable. Overall an amazing experience. Can’t wait to go kayaking again. Thanks guys!

Jamie