Waka Ama (Outrigger Canoe) Experience - Tauranga, New Zealand

Discover the beautiful Mt Maunganui from the ocean. This is a cultural experience on waka ama (outrigger canoes), delivered by tangata whenua (people of the land) of Tauranga.

This experience is around 2 hours long, with approximately 1 hour on the water.

You will be collected from the gates of the Port of Tauranga by one of our qualified, local guides.  You will then be taken to our beach station on Pilot Bay, just a stone's throw from the gate, and experience a Whakatau (informal cultural welcome), before changing into your swimwear and starting the activity.

Paddlers will start with an onshore lesson, then board the waka ama (outrigger canoe) with our experienced steerers.  You will then put your paddling techniques to practice while circuiting the stunning Waikorire (Pilot Bay).  You will hear about how our Maori people used similar waka to migrate from the Pacific Islands to New Zealand. Song is a big part of our culture, so expect to be serenaded on the ocean and invited to join in on some traditional waka ama chants. 

At the end of the session, we will have a brief Poroporoaki (farewell) at our beach station, where you will receive a traditional gift from us.  We will then accompany you back to the Port of Tauranga gates where you can enjoy the rest of your day at our beautiful home.

* Towels available on the day.