Tauranga: Evening Glowworm Kayak Tour

Top rated
4.8362575 out of 5 stars
4.8
4.8362575 out of 5 stars
171 reviews
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Tauranga: Evening Glowworm Kayak Tour
Likely to sell out
Top rated
4.8362575 out of 5 stars
4.8
4.8362575 out of 5 stars
171 reviews

Enjoy delicious locally sourced refreshments by the lake with your guide. Paddle your kayak into the night to discover the magic of an enchanting Glowworm canyon.

About this activity

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later
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Duration 3 hours
Check availability to see starting times
Live tour guide
English

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

K
Kathryn – United Kingdom

Ellie was so fun and knowledgeable about the area and the glow worms (who knew they arent really worms?!) and she was such a strong kayaker!! The tour started with great cheese, olives and meats, followed by a safety briefing where we received fleeces, water proof coats and life jackets. Even though we brought our own waterproofs with us, Ellie insisted we use theirs for our comfort so our belongings didn’t get wet. She also provided us with Ocean Bags for our phones/cameras! The kayaking itself was in 2s and took around 1.5 hours. We saw LOADS of glow worms and lots of stars - so I’d recommend doing this tour on a clear day so you can stargaze as part of the experience. We were lucky enough to see Mars! Great experience overall.

N
Nevine – United States

Ellie, our guide, was amazing. she picked us up, fed us, cleaned up, got our kayaks ready and gave us a quick training, put us in kayaks, helped the slow and stranded, guided us through the glow worms caves. knowledgeable, entertaining and interactive. she was awesome. Great adventure kayaking in the dark, with stars lightening our path. Just AMAZING!

Select participants and date

Highlights

  • Enjoy a scenic glowworm kayaking experience on Lake McLaren
  • See glow worms at night in a narrow, high-sided canyon at the top of the lake
  • Learn all about the fascinating and magical glowworm
  • “Te Reka O Te Whenua- the Taste of the Land” taste test

Full description

As the evening unfolds, begin your journey with a short scenic drive through rolling countryside, you’ll arrive at the breath taking Lake McLaren. Here, you’ll be welcomed with “Te Reka O Te Whenua- the Taste of the Land” a curated tasting session featuring flavours unique to Aotearoa. Savour the flavours of New Zealand Cheeses, sweet RewaRewa honey, and other artisanal delights, perfectly paired with locally brewed kombucha. In the cooler months, sip on warm, spiced 0% mulled wine to keep you warm.

As the sun starts to set, your guides will lead you onto the calm lake, where the journey into the heart of Aotearoa’s natural beauty begins. Glide gently through still waters towards the Mangapapa Canyon a hidden part of the lake where thousands of Glowworms illuminate the area. Your guide will also share the fascinating science behind these bioluminescent wonders.

Upon your return, paddle under the star filled sky, hear the whispers of the land through Māori legends, and listen to stories of the night sky

This is an experience of nature’s finest luxuries: pristine waters, cultural stories, and a starlit sky reflected in the stillness below.

Includes

  • Transportation
  • Kayak
  • Paddles
  • Life jacket
  • Fleeces for warmth
  • Spray decks
  • Te Reka O Te Whenua- the Taste of the Land” tasting session
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off

Not suitable for

  • People with low level of fitness

Meeting point

36 Taniwha Place, Bethlehem, Tauranga

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Important information

Not allowed

  • Jeans

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable, light, warm clothing and bring a fleece top or similar for additional warmth
  • Participants are advised to avoid wearing denim jeans
  • This tour can operate in almost all weather conditions
  • Moderate fitness required
  • The tour departs once a day before sunset

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.8 /5

based on 171 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    4.9/5
  • Transportation
    4.8/5
  • Value for money
    4.6/5

Customer photos

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K
Kathryn – United KingdomApril 8, 2025 – Verified booking
Ellie was so fun and knowledgeable about the area and the glow worms (who knew they arent really worms?!) and she was such a strong kayaker!! The tour started with great cheese, olives and meats, followed by a safety briefing where we received fleeces, water proof coats and life jackets. Even though we brought our own waterproofs with us, Ellie insisted we use theirs for our comfort so our belongings didn’t get wet. She also provided us with Ocean Bags for our phones/cameras! The kayaking itself was in 2s and took around 1.5 hours. We saw LOADS of glow worms and lots of stars - so I’d recommend doing this tour on a clear day so you can stargaze as part of the experience. We were lucky enough to see Mars! Great experience overall.

Response from provider

April 8, 2025

Thank you so much for your lovely review! We're thrilled to hear you had such a fun and memorable time on the tour with Ellie, she really is a gem, isn’t she? Her passion for the glow worms and the local area always makes for an engaging and informative experience. We’re glad you appreciated the extra touches like the gear and drybags, your comfort and enjoyment are always top priority.

N
Nevine – United StatesApril 7, 2025 – Verified booking
Ellie, our guide, was amazing. she picked us up, fed us, cleaned up, got our kayaks ready and gave us a quick training, put us in kayaks, helped the slow and stranded, guided us through the glow worms caves. knowledgeable, entertaining and interactive. she was awesome. Great adventure kayaking in the dark, with stars lightening our path. Just AMAZING!

Response from provider

April 8, 2025

Thank you so much for your amazing review! We're so happy to hear you had such a great time on the tour, and we'll be sure to pass on your kind words to Ellie, she truly goes above and beyond for every group. From pick-up to paddling, she’s a superstar! Kayaking under the stars and through the glowworm caves is such a special experience, and we're thrilled you found it just as magical as we do.

Y
Yves – SwitzerlandMarch 4, 2025 – Verified booking
This tour was an unforgettable experience! Paddling through the peaceful lake at dusk was stunning, and the glowworm-covered canyon felt like a natural galaxy. Our guide was friendly and knowledgeable, making the journey both relaxing and informative. While it is a bit pricey, the unique and magical atmosphere makes it well worth it. Highly recommended!

Response from provider

March 12, 2025

Thank you for your fantastic review! We're so glad to hear that you had an unforgettable experience and that the glowworm canyon felt like a natural galaxy—it's truly a magical sight! It’s also great to know that your guide made the journey both relaxing and informative. We appreciate your feedback on pricing and are thrilled that you found the experience well worth it.

Product ID: 106477

Activity provider:Waimarino Ltd

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