Where are the best places in New Zealand for sea or flat water kayaking?

Question

I have the opportunity to spend several months in New Zealand next year (Jan - March). I'd like to do some kayaking both on in-land lakes and rivers or in coastal areas. My goal is to see the natural beauties of NZ. I'm not as interested in shooting down death-defying white water rapids. Any suggestions for the best destinations?

Answer 1

The Abel Tasman and Marlborough Sounds would  probably be the best for coastal/flat water  kayaking as they are quite well sheltered.

Answer 2

For fantastic coastal kayaking go to Golden Bay. This is located at the top of the South Island - just beautiful.

There are tons of lakes to kayak on too - try the South Island lakes such as Lake Wanaka and Lake Wakatipu in Queenstown.

Have fun!

Answer 3

I went kayaking last week at the Abel Tasman National Park, near Nelson on the South Island, the water was quite smooth, and a very pleasant experience.

Enjoy.

Answer 4

There are some wonderful kayaking to be had around Hahei in the Coromandel, (if you are looking for guided tour this is a good one http://www.seakayaktours.co.nz/sea_kayak...

Otherwise the Able Tasman national park is one of the ultimate kayaking areas in NZ, Kaiteretere is a good base.

Answer 5

#1 spot is the Abel Tasman National Park, near Nelson.  Top of the South Island

http://www.seakayaking.co.nz

#2 Marlborough / Picton – The Marlborough Sounds - http://www.destinationmarlborough.com

#3 Queenstown – Milford Sounds, http://www.fiordland.org.nz

#4 Lake Wanaka - http://www.lakewanaka.co.nz/index.cfm/Ho...

Answer 6

for flat water the best would be:

-lake wanaka

-te anau (sea)

-marlbrough sounds/ able tasmen/ golden bay (all top of south island) (sea)

-bay of islands (sea)

-lake taupo (nz's largest lake)

theres lots of other good lakes too

for surf kayaking theres plenty of good surf beaches all over the country. theres lots of good braided rivers and white water too.