NOCTURNAL ADVENTURES
Immerse yourself in extraordinary under-the-stars adventures in the Bay of Plenty. Glide through illuminated waters on a glow worm kayaking tour or join a night walk to hear kiwi calls and spot glow-in-the-dark fungi. Connect with nature and create lasting memories under the captivating night sky. test
WAIMARINO GLOW WORM KAYAK TOUR
Experience a serene sunset paddle on Lake McLaren, as you head into a narrow, high-sided canyon. Discover the enchanting world of glow worms with Waimarino Kayak Tours, learn about their life cycles, and listen to captivating Māori tales. The family-friendly Big Kanu accommodates all ages. Enjoy.
MOONLIGHT KAYAKING GUIDED TOUR WITH KG KAYAKS
This tour by KG Kayaks departs from the edge of Ōhiwa Harbour, in Whakatāne, just as the sun is setting. Paddle past ancient pohutukawa trees and islands of significant cultural importance, with only the moonlight to guide your way. You may encounter fish leaping out of the water in the dark, and stunning biological luminescence.
SLEEP UNDER THE STARS
Sleep under the stars at Watercliff - the latest ecosanctuary in rural Omanawa, in the Kaimaī Ranges. Sophisticated and sustainably built solar-powered cabins surrounded by native bush and fern-clad gullies await you. Relax on spacious timber decks and listen to the river rush by. Spectacular cliffs and gorgeous sunsets provide the ultimate place to relax and the perfect spot for unobstructed views of the stars.
MUIRS TOURS
Ex-Māori All Black Deon Muir from Muirs Tours offers manuhiri (visitors) the opportunity to experience a highly personalised fishing charter to gather some of the best kai moana Aotearoa has to offer. You’ll get out onto the water for sunrise to catch a glimpse of the starry sky, followed by a day exploring the moana (ocean), immersing yourself in a personalised private guided fishing experience. Once you’ve found your catch, it’s off to Deon’s house to devour the kai in an array of ways, including in his mum’s famous mussel chowder.
WHAKATĀNE KIWI TRUST NIGHT WALKS
The Whakatāne Kiwi Trust is a charitable organisation dedicated to protecting kiwi and other indigenous species in the Whakatāne area. Every year from April to July, you can join their night walks in the Ōhope Scenic Reserve or Mokorua Bush Scenic Reserve to hear kiwi calls, while encountering other native birds, weta, spiders, and glow-in-the-dark fungi. Learn about local kiwi conservation and the vital conservation efforts of the Whakatāne Kiwi Trust. At any time of the year you can do the self-guided Fairbrother loop walk during the day or at night.