Kayaking in Marahau: Split Apple Rock and sea caves
You paddle the kayak yourself, not watch from a boat.
A guided sea kayak exploration from Marahau along the South Island coast, paddling past nesting cormorants, through sea caves and out to the world-famous Split Apple Rock. The guide leads the route and shares knowledge of the area. You operate the kayak. Life jackets, spray skirts and all safety equipment are provided. Returns by midday, making it a morning activity that leaves the rest of your day open.
Step-by-step itinerary
Kayak tour exploring coastal sights
- Depart from Marahau
- Explore nesting cormorants
- Visit sea caves
- See Split Apple Rock
- Return to Marahau
What’s included
- Sea kayak, life jacket, spray skirt and safety equipment.
- English-speaking guide leading the route and sharing knowledge of the coast, wildlife and landmarks.
- return to Marahau by midday.
Times
- Every day 08:30
Before you book
Operated by Kahu Kayaks Limited
Prices and times updated today
Traveler reviews
The experience
You arrive at Marahau and meet your guide, who briefs you on the kayak, the paddle technique and what to expect on the water. The three-hour paddle heads south along the coast at a relaxed pace. This is not a fitness test. The cormorants nest in the cliffs above the water, and you'll paddle close enough to watch them without disturbing them. Sea caves open into the rock face as you move deeper into the coastline, and the guide points out the geology and the wildlife that lives in these spaces.
Split Apple Rock appears as a massive boulder split cleanly down the middle, sitting in the shallow water offshore. It's the kind of landmark that stops you mid-paddle. The rock is real, the split is dramatic, and no photo quite captures the scale until you're floating next to it. The guide shares the story of how it formed and why it matters to the local Māori. You have time to circle it, photograph it and simply sit with it before the group turns back toward Marahau.
The return paddle follows the same coastline in reverse, arriving back at Marahau around midday. All kayaks, life jackets, spray skirts and safety gear stay with the operator. You bring only yourself and a willingness to paddle at an easy rhythm. The guide speaks English throughout and welcomes children from age 5 onward, so families often make up the group. No previous kayaking experience is required. The pace and the instruction are built for people taking it easy.
Is this one for you?You paddle the kayak yourself at a relaxed pace, so it suits families and anyone who wants to be on the water without the intensity of a fitness paddle. The guide leads the route and handles the navigation, which means you focus on paddling and watching the cormorants and caves pass by instead of planning where to go next.
More experiences you might like
Top questions
Can children come?
Yes. Ticket types: Child (5 to 13 years). Children under 5 can't be included in the booking.
What happens if it rains?
It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.
Can I kayak in Marahau if I've never paddled before?
Yes. The Family Cruiser is designed for all fitness levels and paddling experience. Your guide covers the basics before you leave shore and sets a relaxed pace throughout the three hours, so beginners paddle comfortably alongside more experienced paddlers.
What is Split Apple Rock and why is it famous?
Split Apple Rock is a massive boulder in the water off Marahau with a clean vertical split running through its center. It's a striking natural landmark and holds significance in Māori culture. Your guide explains both the geology and the story as you paddle around it.
What time does the kayaking start and when do we return?
The trip departs from Marahau in the morning and returns approximately at midday, giving you the afternoon free for other activities. Your confirmation will specify the exact departure time.
What's included in the kayaking trip and what do I need to bring?
The kayak, life jacket, spray skirt and all safety equipment are provided. Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen and water. Lunch is not included, so eat before you depart or plan to grab food after you return to Marahau.
Do I need to be fit to paddle for three hours?
No. The Family Cruiser is a relaxed exploration, not a fitness paddle. The pace is easy, the route follows the coast without strong currents, and the guide keeps the group together. People of all fitness levels paddle this trip regularly.
Kayaking in Marahau: Split Apple Rock and sea caves
3h · EN
from NZ$ 120 per person
≈ US$ 69 in your currency
Next, you choose your date and number of travelers and see the final price.