Lake Karapiro: Twilight Glowworm Kayak Tour & Stream Paddle

Summary

Kayak into twilight on Lake Karapiro then drift with glowworms

You’ll paddle Lake Karapiro at dusk with a local guide, glide over submerged history at Horahora Dam, then drift into Pokaiwhenua Stream as darkness falls. Native ferns hang overhead while glowworms light up the canyon walls around you — it’s peaceful, slightly surreal, and includes all your gear so you can just show up ready to paddle.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it’s like to paddle a kayak after sunset, when the lake goes quiet and even the birds seem to hush? That’s how our evening started at Lake Karapiro, somewhere between nerves and excitement as we met our guide near the water. I could smell damp earth and a hint of river weed while we pulled on splash jackets and tried not to look too clumsy in the wetshoes. Our guide, Matt, joked about “beginner paddlers” but somehow made everyone relax. There was this easy rhythm to his voice — maybe that’s a Kiwi thing.

Paddling along the southern edge of the lake felt peaceful in a way I didn’t expect. The old Horahora Dam is hidden under us, which Matt explained used to power gold mining towns ages ago. He pointed out where the village once stood — now just ripples and shadows under our kayaks. The air cooled quickly as twilight crept in, making me wish I’d brought an extra layer (maybe don’t make my mistake). Somewhere behind us, tui birds called out, echoing over the water. We slid quietly into Pokaiwhenua Stream, where native ferns almost brushed my shoulders — you could smell them if you breathed deep enough.

I kept thinking the glowworms would be tiny or hard to spot, but drifting through that canyon in full dark… it’s hard to describe without sounding cheesy. They really do look like little stars scattered along both sides of the stream. Everyone went quiet except for one person who whispered “wow” and then laughed at themselves. On the way back downstream, nobody rushed. It was just soft paddles dipping in black water and those dots of blue-green light guiding us home. I still think about that moment sometimes — how small and calm it felt floating there.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Twilight Glowworm Kayak Tour

• Start at Riverside Adventures base
• Paddle along Lake Karapiro's southern edge
• Pass over submerged Horahora Dam
• Learn Horahora village history
• Enjoy twilight and water silence
• Paddle up Pokaiwhenua Stream through canyon
• Observe native ferns, trees, and birds
• Float back downstream in darkness
• View glowworms sparkling on both sides

Top questions

Is this glowworm kayak tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, beginners are welcome; guides offer support and all gear is provided.

How long do we paddle during the Lake Karapiro tour?

You should be able to paddle yourself for about 1 hour at a time.

Are kayaks and safety equipment included?

Yes, kayaks, PFDs (life jackets), splash pants/jackets, and wetshoes are included.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, it is wheelchair accessible and service animals are allowed.

Do I need to bring anything special for the twilight kayak tour?

No special gear needed; everything required is provided by Riverside Adventures.

Where does the glowworm part happen?

The glowworms appear along Pokaiwhenua Stream after dark during your return paddle.

Is lunch or food included on this tour?

No meals are included; only kayaking equipment is provided.

What’s included

Your evening includes all kayaking equipment: kayak, personal flotation device (PFD), splash pants and jackets for warmth on the water, plus wetshoes so you don’t have to worry about getting your own feet wet — just bring yourself ready for an hour or so of gentle paddling with a local guide leading the way.