Canoe and Kayak

14/10/2026

If your ideal day involves calm water, native bush and getting away from the crowds, this one’s for you 🛶

Our Hidden Lake Kayak adventure takes you somewhere you’d probably never find from the road. Sometimes the best way to see Taupō is from the water.

Book your adventure today 👉canoeandkayak.co.nz/tours

12/10/2026

A few small things can make a BIG difference on the water 🛶
The right gear isn’t always about buying the fanciest option. Sometimes it’s the simple additions that make paddling more comfortable, easier and more enjoyable.
Here are a few of our picks.
What would you add to this list?

07/10/2026

Fiiiind your nearest Canoe & Kayak store today at canoeandkayak.co.nz/store-locator/

05/10/2026

If your arms are doing all the work, you’re going to get tired much faster than necessary. A common habit for newer paddlers is pulling the paddle through the water using mostly their arms. Instead, think torso rotation. As your blade enters the water, rotate through your core and upper body to drive the stroke. Your shoulders should turn with each stroke rather than staying square while your arms do all the work.

A few cues to remember:

🛶 Keep your grip relaxed.

🛶 Reach forward by rotating, rather than overextending your arm.

🛶 Plant the blade firmly in the water.

🛶 Rotate your torso as you bring the kayak past the paddle.

🛶 Keep the movement smooth rather than trying to muscle each stroke.

Your core and back contain much larger muscle groups than your arms, so using them properly helps you paddle more efficiently and conserve energy over longer distances.

If your arms are burning after every paddle, your technique might be doing more work than you need to.

30/09/2026

When someone asks, “What should we do in Taupō?” don’t just send them to the usual tourist spots. Take them kayaking to the Māori Rock Carvings instead.

🛶 Paddle across Lake Taupō
🌋 Views towards 3 volcanoes
📖 Learn the stories and history behind the carvings
💦 Time for a swim or rock jump depending on conditions

The carvings are only accessible from the water, so getting there is part of the experience.
Save this one for your next visitors.

Book your tour ➡️ https://canoeandkayak.co.nz/tour-item/maori-rock-carvings-tour-lake-taupo/

28/09/2026

28/09/2026

Just getting into kayaking? Don't worry about buying everything on the shelf.
Here are the 5 things we'd start with:

Booties - Keep your feet warm, protect your soles from sharp rocks and shells and provide grip on wet surfaces.

PFDs - A safety non-negotiable. Make sure it fits comfortably and is suitable for how you're paddling.

Keep warm gear - Dress for the water, not just the weather. Layers that keep you warm and comfortable can make a huge difference.

Bilge pump - A water pump used to remove unwanted water collecting in the bilge.

Paddle float - An important safety accessory to perform a self-rescue after capsizing in deep water.

And the best beginner tip? Don't feel like you need to figure it all out yourself! If you're not sure what you actually need, come and chat with the C&K team. We'll help you get set up for the kind of paddling you want to do.

23/09/2026

Canoe & Kayak has everything you need! ➡️ canoeandkayak.co.nz.

21/09/2026

One of the easiest kayaking mistakes to avoid? Heading out without properly checking the conditions. A calm-looking beach doesn’t necessarily mean calm conditions once you’re on the water.

Before launching, check...

🌬️ Wind speed and direction: A tailwind on the way out can become a tough headwind when you’re trying to get home.

🌊 Tides and currents: Know what the tide is doing during the entire time you expect to be out, not just when you launch.

🌦️ The forecast: Conditions can change quickly, so check the forecast for the hours you’ll actually be paddling.

📍 Your route: Know where you’re going, where you can safely get off the water if needed and whether the conditions suit your experience level.

🦺 Your gear: Wear a properly fitted PFD and carry the appropriate safety and communication equipment for where you’re paddling.

A few minutes of planning before you launch can make the difference between a great day out and a situation you weren’t prepared for.

16/09/2026

If you’re looking for the best way to get into kayaking, start here 👇
Canoe & Kayak's beginner kayak courses are designed to get you comfortable and confident on the water from day one. You’ll learn the essentials, from setting up your kayak and paddling efficiently, to staying safe, controlling your boat and knowing what to do if things don’t quite go to plan.

Check out the kayak courses and get your first adventure underway ➡️ canoeandkayak.co.nz/courses.

14/09/2026

Getting into kayaking doesn’t mean you need to spend a fortune on gear. Our essential checklist focuses on keeping you and your gear dry:
1️⃣ Booties - Keep your feet warm and dry, provide grip, and protects against sharp surfaces.

2️⃣ Gloves - Keep your hands warm and dry and provide grip.

3️⃣ Dry Bags - Protecting your gear from the water.

4️⃣ Cellphone Bag - Protect your phone, which is particularly important in an emergency.

The best gear isn't necessarily the most expensive gear. It's the gear that makes getting out on the water easier, safer and more enjoyable.

Not sure what you actually need? Come and chat to the team in-store.

09/09/2026

We have canoes and kayaks and other gear! Why not come find out for yourself? 👀