Water sports and leisure activities New Zealand

This company offers a catamaran excursion to Moutohora Island, also known as Whale Island, one of the country's most protected sanctuaries. Allow four hours for this guided tour, including a 30-minute boat ride (15-minute boat ride each way). The program for this delightful day includes encounters with kekeno (fur seals) and endemic birds, as well as walking and digging in a hot pool at Onep/Sulphur Bay!

Specializing in the marine biodiversity of this rich region, Encounter Kaikoura offers the opportunity to swim with wild dolphins in the open sea, including the rare "dark dolphins. After watching an introductory video, a shuttle bus will take you to the boat, which will leave for the open sea in search of the many mammals still present in the area. All equipment is provided (wetsuit, fins, mask and snorkel) as well as a small snack. During this unique experience, several swims are planned.

This family-owned company is the specialist in cruises in and around the bay. They offer an excellent two-hour trip on a small boat, perfect for dolphin watching and enjoying the beauty of the coast in a small group. It is an unforgettable encounter with marine mammals, but also with penguins and sea lions. In high season (October-April), 3 trips per day are organized: 10:15, 12:45 and 15:15. In low season (May-September), only the one at 12:45. The price includes drinks and home-made pastries.

Among other excursions offered by the agency, boat safaris where the most lucky can watch dolphins, but also killer whales, sharks…

One of the most complete sites for diving information in New Zealand. A good idea would also be to contact the New Zealand Underwater Association Tel (09) 623 3252. Many clubs or associations can take visitors to local sites. In general, the dive clubs are well equipped and the atmosphere is very pleasant. All dives take place in the safety curve and it is rare to descend under 20 m. Fishing for scuba divers is regulated but permitted. In apnée or in bottle, the leisure pleasure is not only recreational, many go to prepare a barbecue barbecue. The collection of paua (shell terrified, appreciated for its rainbow and flesh) is widely practised and closely monitored with quotas. Poaching cases are common and fines are salted for those who get caught.

Get all the necessary surfing equipment.

The surrounding rivers offer good spots for rafting. This company offers exits on the Lower Kaituna River.

Renting a boat to visit the Bay of Islands is a good idea. This can be a good solution for feeling totally self-sufficient and spending the day fishing (including equipment) or walking with family. If experience in navigation is requested, it is not mandatory to have a permit.

A jet boat sail for 90 minutes in the bay to Hole in the Rock to enjoy the beauties of the coast.

Also hire various equipment to leave alone in the adventure: kayaks, atvs, masque and snorkeling.

This company proposes to spend a day on board Mr Roosevelt, a beautiful 42 foot sailing boat.

Beginners or sports enthusiasts will be able to practise windsurfing.

This is an activity that comes from the ordinary, it is the first place in the world where this activity has been commercialized. But beware! Physical condition forced because it is a question of to in the water all day, palms at feet and special board by hand. Fun and pain insured.

To swim with lions, a unique sensation and a feeling of freedom never!

You don't have to go all the way to Antarctica to see penguins! Three different species populate New Zealand's coasts. On Akaroa, it's the smallest (and cutest) of them all that you can see: the little blue penguin. The Helps family has been actively involved in protecting the colony ever since these charming birds made their home here. A visit to the colony gives you the privilege of observing the penguins in their natural habitat, while helping to protect them.