This trip is for relatively fit adventurers who would like to explore the many secluded hidden gems of Lake Taupo’s Western Bays which are mainly only accessible by water.
You’ll meet us at our base in Acacia Bay where we will set off by vehicle to Kinloch (or you can meet us at Kinloch mariner.
On our Western Bays Scenic Adventure trip, we will depart from Kinloch Marina by boat across the pristine waters of Lake Taupo to the remote shores of the Western Bays.
Our first stop would be the majestic Otupoto Waterfall, a unique spot where the water cascades off the cliff straight into the lake. A spectacular sight indeed. Then it is on to Tutaewaroa Stream to view another waterfall. If we’re lucky, we might be able to spot some trout.
For those on the unguided tour, Boat Harbour is where we will leave you to gear up and launch your kayaks for your paddle across the bays to the pretty lakeside village of Kinloch.
There is nothing but spectacular natural scenery as you kayak by the coastline towards Kawakawa Bay. There, the long, sweeping sandy beach, which is quite different from the rest of the Western Bays, beckon for a lunch stop.
Jump into the crystal clear waters or if the weather is too cold, simply have a drink – this is one of the only freshwater lakes left that you can still drink from! Otherwise, sun bathe on the shore, listening to the soothing sounds of native birds, while taking in the magnificient sight of the Tongariro National Park mountains across the lake. Don’t forget to look out for rock climbers tackling the surrounding cliff faces.
For those on our guided tour, we will take you after lunch to visit a cave that you are able to paddle right up to.
The last part of your trip will find you kayaking past unique volcanic landscape and the spectacular towering vista of cliffs, a solid wall of rock rising high above you then plummeting hundreds of feet below. This would be the highlight of your adventure.
The Western Bays Scenic Adventure is truly a unique trip and one you will remember forever.
Kayak Hire, 2 Way Transport & Boat Transfer (unguided) Package
- NZD $345 per person for 1-2 people (minimum 2 people to run tour)
- NZD $335 per person for 3 people
- NZD $325 per person for 4 plus people
Guided Tour Package:
- NZD $555 per person for 1-2 people (minimum 2 people to run tour)
- NZD $490 per person for 3 people
- NZD $455 per person for 4 plus people
Guided Tour includes:
- Professional qualified guides
- Full instruction & tuition
- Quality kayaking & Safety equipment
- Packed lunch, snacks, and refreshments
- Cave visit
- Boat Transfer (Scenic boat ride)
- Motorized kayaks – if needed and available
- Tuwharetoa Maori Trust Board – Kaitiaki (lake guardianship) contribution fee 7%