Water Sports in North Island

Enjoy a scenic rafting tour on the Rangitaiki River during a laid-back 6-hour tour from Rotorua. Travel over Grade 2 white-water rapids on a gentle ride past tumbling waterfalls, sheer rock cliffs and forest-clad river gorges as you relax and take in the scenery. The rolling rapids make this an ideal trip for families and those looking for a more relaxed experience. Includes lunch, gear, paddling instruction and a hot shower with hotel pickup and drop-off.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Experience the elation of Rangitaiki River white-water rafting over Grade 3 and 4 rapids on this 6-hour adventure for physically active participants. You'll bounce over whirling white water on a thrilling run through the stunning river valley, including a section of flat water where you can relax before lunch and a hot shower. Includes gear, paddling instruction, and hotel pickup and drop-off from Rotorua.

Enjoy a thrilling combo of 2 of Taupo's best water activities. You'll have the time of your life with each adrenaline-charged experience: Spin out to Huka Falls on a Waikato River jet-boat ride and go whitewater rafting on the Tongariro River. With professional guides and all equipment provided, you'll see all angles of Taupo's great outdoors.

There are few more unique ways to see the Bay of Islands than catching the wind and parasailing high above the water. See the Bay's towns, forests and islands - all the way out to Cape Brett's famous Hole in the Rock - from the sky on this aerial adventure. Take to the skies with your friends or family on tandem or triple flights. Your children can even go parasailing - this adventure is suitable for all.