Useful information
“Everything you need to know before you paddle for a safe, easy, and memorable adventure.”
Safety First
Your safety is our priority. Every tour and rental begins with a full safety briefing and support from our experienced local team. We provide:
Lifejackets for every paddler (must be worn at all times)
Safety gear: maps, radios, flares, dry bags
Professional guides on all tours, trained in first aid and rescue
Flexible scheduling — we won’t take you out in unsafe conditions
Respect for the environment and wildlife (no landing at seal colonies)
Minimum of 2 people required for rentals and multi-day trips. Outdoor or water experience is necessary and preferred for independent rental.
What to Bring
The weather can change so think layers, and be ready for all weather:
Hat & sunglasses
Windproof/warm layer (yes, even in summer)
Water bottle & snacks
Sunscreen & comfortable clothes that can get wet
Sandals or water shoes (avoid jeans or heavy shoes)
Camping gear & food (multi-day trips only; hire available)
Meeting & Logistics
Meeting point: Golden Bay Kayaks base, Tata Beach
Parking: Free parking available nearby
Check-in times: Tours usually depart mornings; rentals flexible (weather-dependent)
Transport: Transfers back from Totaranui available (ask when booking)
Age & Fitness Requirements
Guided Tours: Suitable for most ages — ask us about family options
Independent Rentals: Confident swimmers only, children must be accompanied by adults
Multi-Day Trips: Outdoor experience required; must be comfortable camping and paddling for several hours a day. Check here for our stories page for more information.
Local Tips
Where to stay: See our Stay With Us page for cottages, BnBs, and glamping near Tata Beach
Food & supplies: Bring lunch/snacks; local cafes and shops nearby in Pohara or Takaka
Other activities: Walk to Taupo Point, explore nearby tracks, or enjoy a swim at Tata Beach
Why You’ll Love It
Peace of mind with our safety-first approach
Local knowledge to make your day easy and memorable
Flexible options — from 2-hour paddles to 5-day adventures
A trusted, family-run business since 1988
Booking Campsites
Camping in the Abel Tasman National Park requires a campsite booking.
Visit https://booking.doc.govt.nz to book your campsites.
Booking a trip with us is easy. Simply click on the Book Now button on whichever Tour or Hire you are interested in and you go straight to our booking page. If you have questions, feel free to email us any time.
Camping at Totaranui
Totaranui is the largest campsite in Abel Tasman National Park, run by the Department of Conservation (DOC). It’s located at the northern end of the park and is a popular finish point for multi-day paddlers.
Good to know:
We can pick you up from Totaranui, but rentals cannot start there — all hires begin at our Tata Beach base.
Facilities: toilets, cold showers, drinking water, kitchen shelters, DOC rangers on site.
Access: 1 hour by gravel road from Takaka, or by water taxi. Parking available.
Bookings: Required in advance via the DOC website.
Why stay: Golden beach, safe swimming, and a great base if combining kayaking with the Abel Tasman Coast Track.
Base Location — Tata Beach
All rentals begin from our Golden Bay Kayaks base at Tata Beach. This is where we give you your safety briefing, fit your gear, and launch your kayak.
Pickup Option — Totaranui
We can collect you from Totaranui at the end of your trip, but rentals cannot start there. Please plan to begin your adventure at Tata Beach.
Our Fleet
“Safe, stable, and suited to every kind of paddler - from first-timers to multi-day explorers.”
Sea Kayaks
Our sea kayaks are enclosed, stable, and designed for coastal waters. They’re the best choice if you want to cover more distance or carry gear for overnight trips.
Available in doubles and if you have an odd number singles
Equipped with rudders, spray skirts, and storage hatches
Comfortable seats for longer journeys
Perfect for guided tours and multi-day rentals
Sit-On-Top Kayaks
Sit-on-tops are simple, safe, and lots of fun. They’re open, easy to paddle, and ideal for short hires or families wanting to play in the Bay.
Very stable and easy to get on and off
Great for beginners or warm summer days
Best for short paddles close to shore
A relaxed way to enjoy Tata Beach and beyond
What’s Included With Every Rental
Paddle(s)
Lifejacket(s)
Spray skirt (sea kayaks)
Pump, spare paddle, tow line, bilge sponge
Dry bags for your gear
Safety briefing and map before you set out
Why You’ll Love Our Kayaks
Reliable, modern equipment checked before every trip
Choice of kayak style to match your adventure
Comfort and safety built into every design
Trusted by locals and loved by families, couples, and adventurers alike
