BEGINNER

Essentials

1 Day Course

A practical introduction to sea kayaking that builds confidence on the water and covers the essential skills to get started safely.

• Learn how to read conditions, choose and fit the right gear, and plan safely before you launch.
• Build confident paddle strokes and kayak handling.
• Learn and develop effective launching, maneuvering, communication, and group paddling.
• Grow confidence through supported practice, discover local coastal environments, and identify pathways, locations, and communities to continue your paddling journey.
  

Perfect for beginners wanting a safe, fun first experience in a sea kayak.

INTERMEDIATE

Foundational

2 Day Course

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A practical two-day course with a focus on self-rescue and risk management, building confidence to handle open water conditions safely.

• Learn to safely exit your kayak in deep water, establishing the foundation for calm and effective recovery.
• Develop trust and teamwork through assisted rescues and re-entry practice to support safe paddling partnerships.
• Build independence and self-reliance through paddle float rescues and master independent recovery techniques.
  

Ideal for confident paddlers who want to strengthen safety awareness and rescue techniques before progressing to more exposed open water conditions.

ADVANCED

Journey

2 Day Overnight Experience

A two-day, one-night journey to one of the Hauraki Gulf’s islands, with a focus on all the skills required for successful multi-day trips, building confidence and competence in real expedition conditions.

• Refine advanced boat handling through precise edging, bracing, and strokes to maintain stability and flow in dynamic water.
• Navigate complex environments by applying tidal planning, weather interpretation, and chart work to lead open-water crossings.
• Manage dynamic scenarios using contact tows and rough-water rescue techniques to ensure group safety in challenging conditions.
• Develop surf zone proficiency and rock gardening skills to negotiate technical coastlines and breaking waves with precision.
  

Ideal for paddlers ready to move beyond the basics, build precise boat handling, and prepare for more dynamic coastal conditions.

Transport from Auckland and accommodation is included in the course fee.