South Island, New Zealand

  • This topic has 4 replies, 5 voices, and was last updated 2 weeks, 5 days ago by Devi Desabhatla.
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  • August 2, 2026 at 12:30 pm #28800
    Will Cullen
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    Hi Folks!

    My wife and I are travelling to NZ Feb. 2027 and we’re interested in finding some multi-day guided kayak trip options.

    I was wondering if there are folks here who have been to the south island of NZ who could provide some suggestions of companies thatprovide multi-day tours (flat or open waters)..?

    Thanks in advance.

    Cheers,

    Will

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  • August 4, 2026 at 5:56 am #28805
    Devi Desabhatla

    I lived in NZ for many years and once did the South Island Doubtful Sound Day trip.

    Excellent.

    Appears they now have an overnight trip: http://www.doubtfulsoundkayak.com/welcome/overnight

    Cheers

    August 2, 2026 at 9:08 pm #28803
    Eric Kovits

    We were there Nov ‘24 to Feb ‘25.
    We did an unguided paddle around the coast of Abel Tasman Park. The company is Golden Bay Kayaks.
    It was an awesome trip as we had quite short paddle days and took 5 days. Beautiful beaches for camping. The kayak was a good seaworthy tandem which got us through some rough seas.
    Had to book campsites in advance on this popular park.  Great trip!
    On Stewart Island we did a one day guided paddle with Phil’s Sea Kayak. It was the best day of paddling of my life. He also does expeditions.
    Good luck with planning.
    Eric Kovits.

    August 2, 2026 at 1:43 pm #28802
    Cameron Martus

    Hi Will,

    I can recommend Abel Tasman Kayaks. I did their Three Day Classic trip (https://www.abeltasmankayaks.co.nz/guided-kayak-tours/three-day-classic/) this past November and it was an amazing experience. This trip covers the area in Golden Bay that Charles mentioned. In my research this seemed to be the best option for a multi-day trip. The guided trip was handled very smoothly – they provide all the gear and food, water taxi to the start, and campsites. They’ll put you in double kayaks. Of all the operators and rental companies I called, none were willing to rent single kayaks (there seems to be an insurance issue). At each campsite there are trails through beautiful native forest and if it’s clear, incredibly dark starry skies.

    -Cameron

    August 2, 2026 at 12:50 pm #28801
    Charles Maundrell

    Hello Will,

    While I do not have a specific recommendation for you with respect to guides/outfitters for your trip I can recommend a couple of destinations that are sure not to disappoint.  Kayaking in Abel Tasman National Park, which is located at the top of New Zealand’s South Island, specifically in the Nelson/Tasman region. It is situated between Golden Bay and Tasman Bay and sure to be a winner. We rented some kayaks and followed the coast and camped at designated sites. Where we were you can’t really get lost as you just follow the coast.

    At the South end of the South Island Milford Sound is spectacular and probably one the most amazing places in New Zealand.

    I imigrated there in 2008 from Alberta afterbsome traveling abroad and lived their for a few years with my wife. As it has been a while I can’t offer you some specific outfitters. But with some reasearch and a call or two you will be in good shape.

    Warmly,

    Charles

     

     

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