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Kayak Voyages

The focus of these voyages is to highlight the power of story telling. Psychology tells us we are far more likely to remember a fact when it's tied up in story telling as it draws on our empathy, imagination and the emotions.


Taniwha are ferocious creatures or guardians, representing the life force (mauri) of a place in physical form. The role of legendary 'taniwha' stories is to instill respect, often for something potentially dangerous.

So it is that Opotiki harbour has its taniwha ' Whanaunga-kore (the taniwha with no relations) who required visitors to be respectful if they were to navigate the sand bar safely.


The local rivers also had  many taniwha. If watchful you can even discover taniwha lairs as you paddle serenely down river. But beware of the ensnaring claws of the taniwha or you will have your own story to tell!

Albert Einstein declared "Imagination is more important than knowledge."

​Taniwha Trail

Having some basic kayaking skills and adventurous attitude you'll be ready to take on the 10km downstream Waioeka River run. ( About 3-4 hours )

From the bush clad Hine Rae  domain, down many shallows and a few small rapids to add excitement,  there's taniwha claws to be wary of and then on to discover their holed lair.

At your voyage end the river widens out and the Wharf Hub comes into view.

Pull out your kayaks at the rope swings steps and recount your adventures. There's hot showers and towels here too if you need them.

$150 per person includes transport, river shoes, kayaks and life jacket, water proof container for smart phones. Minimum 2 people. River conditions permitting.

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