Water Sports in New Zealand

Paddle a kayak to the magnificent Maori rock carvings on Lake Taupo with a half-day tour from Acacia Bay. You'll learn the cultural significance behind the towering inscriptions, which were completed in 1980, and enjoy great views across the crystal-clear lake to the Tongariro Mountains. Approaching the Maori rock carvings by kayak means you can see them up close, passing native bush and tiny inlets, then floating right at the base of the cliff. Both morning and afternoon departures are available and beginning paddlers are welcome.

Experience 40 minutes of heart-pumping action during a jet-boat ride on Auckland's Waitemata Harbour. Spot the Sky Tower, Auckland Harbour Bridge and other iconic landmarks from a unique perspective as you power through the water in a supercharged jet boat. You'll feel the thrill of on-water tricks while the driver expertly maneuvers through 360-degree spins and fishtails.

Take a jet-boat ride on the Waimakariri River, locally known as 'The Waimak,' with round-trip hotel transport from Christchurch. Select whichever duration best suits your schedule: enjoy a 30-minute braided Blast on the Lower Waimak, a 30-minute Adventure tour through Waimakariri Gorge or a 1-hour Canyon Safari adventure full of thrills and spills - suitable for the whole family.

When your ship pulls into port at Tauranga, take a shore excursion to McLaren Falls Park for a kayaking adventure on Lake McLaren. Paddle on the serene lake with an expert guide and look for myriad birds within reach. Peer at gentle streams that lap the tranquil water's edge and find photo ops against the scenic backdrop of steep-walled Mangapapa Canyon. A chocolate bar, bottled water and dry bag are provided along with round-trip port transport.

Discover the idyllic landscapes of the Mount Aspiring National Park, where filming for the Lord of the Rings took place, on this action-packed half-day tour from Wanaka. Zip along the Matukituki River on a jet boat, admire spectacular views of Lake Wanaka and Mount Aspiring, then hike past forests and waterfalls to see the Avalanche Glacier.

Test your nerve against Mother Nature's power in New Zealand on this 3-hour Tongariro River white-water rafting adventure from Taupo. Travel with your guide into the wilderness of New Zealand's beautiful North Island. Following a safety briefing, climb into your wetsuit, grab your paddle and head to the banks of the swirling Tongariro River. Navigate over 60 of the rolling river's choppy rapids and enjoy panoramic views over the mighty canyon. Spot native bird species along the way and replenish lost energy with a deli-style meal at the end.