Kayaking in Mercury Bay: Cathedral Cove & the Blowhole
Sea caves, hidden bays and a blowhole you can paddle straight into
A 6-hour guided kayak in Mercury Bay combines Cathedral Cove, remote coastline and the Te Whanganui-o-Hei Marine Reserve, with a guaranteed visit to the blowhole: a sea cave system only reachable by water. Small groups led by local guides stop at Cathedral Cove for morning or afternoon tea, and you paddle past offshore islands, rock gardens and hidden bays before returning to the starting point at midday to access lunch.
What’s included
- Professional qualified guides.
- quality kayaking and safety equipment.
- dry bags for cameras and personal belongings.
- hot chocolates, cappuccinos and cookies at Cathedral Cove.
Times
- Every day 08:45
Before you book
Operated by Cathedral Cove Kayak Tours
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The experience
The blowhole is the centerpiece: a massive sea cave system carved into the coastline that you paddle directly into, something no land-based visit can match. The 6-hour experience weaves between Cathedral Cove (where you'll beach for tea and cookies), and the remote southern coastline, with stops at offshore islands and rock gardens along the way. The route follows the Te Whanganui-o-Hei Marine Reserve, a protected stretch of water where the landscape changes from sheltered bays to open rock formations.
You'll need moderate fitness and confidence on the water. The operator recommends the experience for experienced kayakers or those comfortable paddling in variable conditions. Children are welcome from age 12. The guides are local and qualified, and they handle the safety briefing and equipment setup. You bring your own lunch and eat back at the starting point around the halfway mark, giving you a break before the afternoon paddle.
Professional kayaks, safety gear and dry bags for cameras come with the booking. Hot chocolates, cappuccinos and cookies are provided at Cathedral Cove. Bring water and snacks for the rest of the day on the water.
Is this one for you?The starting point is the same for all paddlers, so you don't need a car to join: arrange your own transport to the launch, or contact the operator about options. The halfway return to base means you can access lunch from your accommodation or a cooler you've left there, rather than eating on the water.
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Top questions
Can children come?
Yes. Ticket types: Child (12 to 15 years). Children under 12 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.
What exactly is the blowhole and why can you only reach it by kayak?
The blowhole is a massive sea cave system carved into the Mercury Bay coastline that opens directly onto the water. Kayaking lets you paddle straight inside, which is impossible from the shore: land-based trails don't reach it. The operator guarantees a visit on every full-day tour that runs.
Do you stop for lunch, and is it included?
You return to the starting point around the halfway mark of the 6-hour paddle, where you can access your car or a bag you've left there. Lunch is not provided, so bring your own. The operator does include morning or afternoon tea, coffee, hot chocolate and cookies at Cathedral Cove.
What's the difference between this and a shorter kayak trip in the same area?
The full-day format reaches the remote southern coastline and guarantees the blowhole visit, combining both sides of Mercury Bay in one paddle. Shorter trips typically focus on Cathedral Cove and nearby waters without the extended exploration south or the guaranteed blowhole access.
How experienced do you need to be to paddle this?
The operator recommends the experience for experienced kayakers or those who are fit and confident on the water. Moderate physical fitness is essential. Children are welcome from age 12. If you have concerns about your fitness or paddling ability, contact the operator directly to discuss your situation.
What's included in the booking, and what do you need to bring?
Professional kayaks, safety equipment, dry bags for cameras and personal items, and refreshments at Cathedral Cove are all included. Bring your own lunch, water and any snacks you'll want during the paddle, plus sunscreen and a change of clothes.
Kayaking in Mercury Bay: Cathedral Cove & the Blowhole
6h · EN
from NZ$ 369 per person
≈ US$ 212 in your currency
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