Tauranga Evening Glowworm Kayak Tour
About this experience
Embark on a captivating evening kayak tour in Rotorua, where the serene waters lead you to a mesmerizing glowworm canyon. As you glide through the tranquil landscape, you'll witness the breathtaking sunset casting a golden hue over the rolling hills. This guided tour not only offers an unforgettable kayaking experience but also provides an opportunity to spot local wildlife, including ducks and swans, making it a perfect blend of adventure and nature.
Indulge in locally produced refreshments, including a delightful wine tasting from the award-winning Mills Reef Winery, as you soak in the beauty of your surroundings. With all kayaking and safety equipment provided, you can focus on the magic of the moment. This unique experience combines the thrill of sea kayaking with the enchanting sight of glowworms, making it a must-do activity in Rotorua for both adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
What to expect
During your 3 to 3.5-hour adventure, you'll paddle into the night, guided by an expert who will share fascinating insights about the life cycle and peculiarities of New Zealand's glowworms. As you navigate the calm waters, the twinkling glow of the worms will create a magical atmosphere, leaving you in awe of nature's wonders.
You'll also have the chance to enjoy locally sourced refreshments, including a taste of exquisite wines, as you relax and take in the serene surroundings. This experience is perfect for couples, families, or anyone looking to connect with nature while enjoying a unique evening out in Rotorua.
Highlights
- Evening kayak tour through stunning landscapes
- All kayaking and safety equipment included
- Breathtaking glowworm viewing experience
- Wildlife spotting opportunities
- Locally produced refreshments and wine tasting
- Watch the sunset over picturesque hills
- Unique combination of sea kayaking and glowworm viewing
Things to note
- Transfers from Tauranga and Mount Maunganui are available for $25 per person.
- Call the tour operator to arrange pick-up after receiving your voucher.
- Wear comfortable clothing and bring a light jacket for cooler evening temperatures.
- Mobile vouchers are accepted, so you can easily present your booking on your device.
- Reconfirm your booking with the tour operator within 24 hours of your tour.
Location
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Frequently asked questions
The ticket for the Tauranga Evening Glowworm Kayak Tour includes the kayak rental, safety equipment, and local refreshments to enjoy during your paddle through the glowworm canyons.
Book This Experience
session
Choose your date
July 2026
Passengers
$72.85 each
About this ticket
Combining adventure, sightseeing and refreshments, this Evening Glow Worm Kayaking Tour in Tauranga is an ideal way to spend the evening. The journey begins on the shoreline of Lake McLaren where you can enjoy a bevy of locally sourced food and drink as the sun goes down on another beautiful day in Tauranga. Surrounded by wildlife including ducks and swans this is an incredibly romantic and enjoyable setting to enjoy before climbing into your dual kayak. Come dusk, you'll be led down the lake to watch the sunset from the water and then onwards towards the glow worm canyon. Under the leadership of a kayak tour guide, you'll be taken on a journey to see these mysterious and mesmerising glow worm aves. The canyon is located at the top of the lake and by the time you reach it, it will be night time. Once inside the canyon, you won't be able to see anything apart from what your head torch lights up before paddling into the lit up are the glow worms occupy. While in the cave you'll be taught about the canyon system and the life cycle and habits of the New Zealand fungus gnat (glow worms) as you admire their beauty. This 3.5 hour tour is suitable for guests over the age of 8 years and requires a moderate level of fitness to participate. All necessary equipment is included in the price such as double sea-kayaks, paddles, paddle-jackets and buoyancy aids, and head torches. Tours depart once a day in the evening or late afternoon depending on when you are planning to travel and guests can request accommodation transfers for an additional fee. Inclusions * Evening kayak tour * All Kayaking and Safety equipment * Glow worm viewing * Wildlife spotting * Refreshments (including local wine tasting) Extras * Pick up/drop off vehicle transfers are available from & to your accommodation to Waimarino and/or the activity launch site. Vehicle transfers from & to your accommodation in Tauranga, Mount Maunganui are $25 per person. Once you have received your voucher from us, please call the tour operator to arrange your pick up if you wish (Tour operator details will be printed on your voucher). Transfer fees are payable on the day Highlights * Enjoy locally produced refreshments while watching the ducks and swans. Taste some wine from the award winning Mills Reef winery * Watch the sun set over the rolling hills * Paddle on your kayak into the night and discover the magic of the enchanting glow worm canyon * Hear a fascinating & informative brief about the life cycle and peculiarities of the New Zealand glow worms * This is the only place in the world when sea kayaking & glow worm viewing combine for a magical & truly unique experience Time * Please meet at Waimarino Adventure Park (36 Taniwha Place, Bethlehem, Tauranga) * Tour departure time is between 4pm-7.30pm. Departure times vary depending on the season Duration * 3-3.5 hours (Includes 1-1.5hour kayaking) Additional Information * Minimum age is 8 years old * Two person minimum for all kayak tours to operate * Waimarino reserves the right to cancel the tour on the day, due to weather or any safety concerns. If this is done, the tour will be postponed or a full refund will be made Cancellation Policy * You MUST CALL the operator before proceeding with cancelling this booking. 100% cancellation fee applies within 48hrs of tour date Booking Information * Confirmation in the form of a tour voucher will be received at time of booking * Upon completion of purchase, please print the voucher and present on day of the experience * Mobile Vouchers are accepted! - Vouchers can also be presented on your mobile device for this attraction * For your information, complete Tour Operator Information including contact details is included on your tour voucher * Availability was accurate at the time of booking however, is subject to change due to circumstances out of our control. We strongly suggest reconfirming your booking with the tour operator within 24 hours of making your booking and prior to making other travel arrangements
How to redeem
Show Mobile Ticket: Ticketing counter
Combining adventure, sightseeing and refreshments, this Evening Glow Worm Kayaking Tour in Tauranga is an ideal way to spend the evening.
Choose your date
July 2026
Passengers
$72.85 each
