Bioluminescence Kayak Tour – Auckland

• All kayaking and safety equipment
• Stable sea kayaks or sit-on-tops are used
• All tuition from our experienced qualified kayak guides
• A guaranteed great time!

• Swimming togs and Towel
• Warm extra layers; avoid wearing cotton/denim jeans
• A lightweight windbreaker/raincoat is recommended
• Well-fitting wet shoes (old sand shoes) for kayaking, and walking shoes
• Water bottle
• Personal medication, waterproof camera, and polaroid sunglasses
• Spare warm clothes to change into when finished.
• For Spring & Autumn Tours (Oct, Nov, Mar, Apr), make sure to have extra warm layers and a beanie.

We have been guiding night paddling for over 30 years, and we take the safety of our customers and staff extremely seriously. Every decision is carefully considered by a panel of experts, and every effort is made to ensure that all trips follow all protocols with regular Field Reviews checking compliance, along with regular External Audits. It can be hard for some to feel at ease at night on the water with no lights on, but you can be assured that we have considered every known eventuality and have it covered to keep you safe. When paddling at night, several factors must be considered: actual and perceived risks, actions required to eliminate or mitigate these risks, legal requirements, the paddling location, and the likelihood of being confronted by another vessel that could cause harm. And finally, after all these issues are considered, can we safely operate in the dark to see the bioluminescence?

The legal requirement for a human-powered craft under seven meters long in New Zealand is to carry a bright torch that can be turned on and used to avoid a collision in a timely manner. In Navigable Waters, the legal requirement does not change; however, it is required in some Local Government By Laws and considered best practice in all areas to have all kayaks illuminated with an all-round white light on a pole one meter above the kayak, that is visible for 2 nautical miles.

Night Paddling Policy in ‘Sheltered Waters’:

All participants are supplied with a waterproof torch attached to the PFD (Personal Floatation Device) and all participants are instructed in their proper use.

Night Paddling Policy in ‘Navigable Waters’:

While in Navigable Waters, all kayaks will have an all-round white light on a 1-metre pole above the deck, that is visible for 2 nautical miles. And a waterproof torch attached to all participants' PFD (Personal Floatation Device). All participants are instructed in their proper use.

Definition of ‘Sheltered Waters’:

We view bioluminescence well inside the 200 metre, 5 knot zone, and away from any area that a skipper would take a vessel at night because of the reefs and sand bars. These areas are classified as ‘Sheltered Waters’ and are ideal for us kayakers, as these areas are not suitable for larger crafts. Most of our tours are based entirely in Sheltered Water locations, and we can safely go dark in these areas. We do keep an active watch in the very unusual case a vessel does present itself, then we immediately use our torches to alert them to our position and avoid a collision.

Definition of ‘Navigable Waters’:

These are waters where other vessels may be navigating, and it is our responsibility to be seen. We do not view bioluminescence in these areas as we deem the risks unacceptable; however, we do need to traverse these areas to get to a couple of our Sheltered Water viewing areas. The navigable waters we traverse are also well inside the 5 knot 200 metre zone, which minimises the chance of a collision as all vessels must move slowly. We also have the bright torch that can be displayed in time to avoid a collision. Once in sheltered waters, the pole lights are turned off to enjoy the bioluminescence and the stars.

Q. I read a review that said the bioluminescence a customer saw didn't match the advertising material. Why is that?

We see many different types of bioluminescence. The one pictured is common and is seen on most trips. It is also the only one we have had any luck with photographing, as the mass congregation of plankton in one area allows the camera to occasionally capture it. However, the other types we see are just as enchanting and beautiful to see, and in some cases, extremely rare. As with any natural phenomenon, the brightness and visibility of bioluminescence vary depending on factors like weather, water clarity, and how dark the night is. If you look at any promotional material for any outdoor activity, they always show the best! Skiing promotions are always on a cloudless day, the contrast of blue sky and white snow is compelling, yet any skier knows that sometimes the clouds or snow come in, and it looks nothing like the brochure. The images we use are genuine representations of what we expect you to experience during your trip; however, there are nights when the effect is better or not, and some nights are just so magically different that it blows your mind. It is nature after all, and not an electric light show.

Q. Why do you make tours available to book on dates when the moon is full?

The moon can be a problem on some nights, as can cloud cover, especially white low clouds, as it reflects city lights onto the water. Many contributing factors can impact viewing, and that is nature for you. Many nights the moon is covered by clouds, and many nights the moon is bright but makes little difference to the viewing of Bioluminescence, as the Bioluminescence is so bright it just doesn't matter. We have had many instances running tours with a full moon and no cloud cover, where we have seen brilliant bioluminescence. This year, we have labelled full moon nights on the booking dates so you can make your own call.

Q. Why is the exact location of the tour not confirmed until the morning of the tour, and how will I find out where the meeting location is?

When deciding on the location of the tour, we consider many factors including weather, wind, tides and the best expectation of seeing Bioluminescence. As an island nation, the weather can change considerably within a couple of hours, and while forecasting is good, it is often not good at predicting the time of changing weather. So, we delay confirming the exact location until these factors are as solid as possible using several forecasting services and our extensive local knowledge. We often will check the location the night before for Bioluminescence, too.

An email is sent by 10:00 am on the morning of the tour. It is essential, of course, that you have access to your email that you booked with. We also send a text reminding you that you have an email.

We have had a number of one-star reviews as clients did not receive the email or text, and they did not contact us till after the tour had started, giving us no ability to direct them to the location. In all these situations, everyone else arrived. We often see that the complaining customer has opened the email after the tour. So please make sure you have access to your emails you booked with and access to texts, and if in doubt, please call us early, we have the phone on.

Q: Where do we meet and is there parking?

All the meeting details - including directions, parking info, and what to expect will be sent in your confirmation email. Please read it, it reduces the chance of you being surprised by something on the night that may detract from your enjoyment of the tour. Make sure to arrive 15 minutes early so we can get everyone ready on time. All locations are supported by Uber.

Q: Will I get wet?

Yes, your bottom half is almost certain to get wet. We recommend wearing quick-dry clothing to stay comfortable and bringing spare warm clothes to change into when finished. If you get cold easily, please come dressed appropriately, especially in the spring and autumn, as it can get cold.

Q. Do I need prior kayaking experience?

Not at all! Our tours are designed for all skill levels, including complete beginners. Before we launch, our guides provide a full safety briefing and then paddling instruction on the water. The route is calm and beginner-friendly, and your guides are always nearby to offer tips or assistance along the way. It’s a great way to try kayaking in a safe, supportive, and magical setting.

Q. Is it safe to kayak at night?

Yes, safety is our top priority. Our tours are led by qualified, trained guides with a maximum 1:6 guide-to-guest ratio. This ensures close support and supervision. Additionally, we stay well within the 200 metres deduced speed zone of the shoreline, everyone has a waterproof handheld torch for ‘Sheltered Water’ locations, and deck lights in ‘Navigable Waters’, and we follow well-established emergency protocols on every trip. Before heading out, all guests receive a safety briefing, so you’ll feel confident and prepared throughout the experience.

Q. Will I definitely see bioluminescence?

It is very rare for us not to see at least one type of bioluminescence. Our tours take you out into the dark world of the ocean shoreline; it is such a different place at night. While bioluminescence is our target, so much more is there to enjoy. On many nights, customers comment on how amazing the stars are, with many saying they have never seen so many. Or the likelihood of watching satellites move across the sky, or just the peaceful paddling along in this strange setting of nighttime paddling, that most never experience. So come with an open mind to take in a range of amazing experiences and rest assured that the vast majority of our customers see bioluminescence.

In the rare case that bioluminescence isn't visible during your tour (as verified by your guide on the night), we offer either a 50% refund or a complimentary repeat tour.

Q. What happens if the weather is bad?

Safety comes first. If we need to cancel due to weather, you’ll be given the option to rebook to an agreeable other date or receive a full refund. We’ll keep in touch by email or text with any updates on the day. Normally, we will inform you of the cancellation of the tour by 10 am the morning of the tour. However, weather conditions can and do change, and we withhold the right to cancel the tour at any stage.

Q. Is there an age or fitness requirement?

Our tours are suited for most ages and fitness levels. We typically recommend a minimum age of 11 and that participants are able to sit upright unsupported in a kayak for up to 1.5 hours. If you're unsure, feel free to ask or request a backrest.

Q. Can I bring a camera or phone?

You can, but we advise caution. Night paddling makes it tricky to get good photos, and we can’t guarantee the safety of your device. Most guests choose to leave theirs behind and enjoy the experience fully in the moment.

Q. Are there bathrooms on-site or on the tour?

Bathroom facilities are usually available at the launch site. However, not all of our launch sites have bathroom facilities. If there are no bathrooms at your tour location, we’ll let you know in advance. Please plan accordingly and use facilities before arriving for the tour in this case. Your confirmation email will include info about the specific meeting location and nearby amenities.

Q. Is it suitable for non-swimmers?

Absolutely. You don’t need to be a swimmer to enjoy our tours. All guests wear a well-fitting personal flotation device (PFD) for safety, and our trained guides are skilled in assisting anyone back into their kayak if needed. In coastal environments, we stay well within 200 meters of the shoreline, and every tour begins with a safety briefing, including what to do in the unlikely event of a capsize.

You must, however, be able to float wearing the PFD and remain calm and follow directions.

Q. Are group or private tours available?

Yes! We’re happy to accommodate private tours, birthdays, schools, and corporate groups. Just get in touch to organise something special.

Q. Do you operate year-round?

Our kayaking tours run seasonally from October 1st to May 31st, during the warmer months when conditions are ideal and there's a higher chance of seeing bioluminescence.

Q. What is your cancellation or refund policy?

Our Cancellation Policy for customers cancelling:

• Up to 48 hours before departure time – 100% Refund
• Within 24 – 48 hours before departure time – 50% refund
• Within 24 hours of departure or after departure time – No Refund
• No-show customers – No Refund

Customers will also receive a full refund or credit in case of operator cancellation due to weather or unforeseen circumstances.