* Tickets will go live on 1st January

** We are trying to offer this kayak experience to people living in Northland first. In your registration you will be asked whether you are based in Northland. If this is not the case, please consider leaving the spot to someone else **

Come and explore the Whangarei Harbour Marine Reserve aboard a kayak. Learn first hand about the marine life that lives there and get kayaking tuition from the professionals. You will be guided through large mature mangroves and down a tidal channel where one of New Zealand's largest colonies of cormorants live and nest. See yellow-eyed mullet leaping out of the water, flounder in the shallows or the royal spoonbill hiding in the mangroves if you're really lucky! This event is a taster into kayaking - expect to spend ~50mins on the water. Fun for the whole whānau.

Children younger than 8 will not be able to participate.

Children aged 8-10 need to have a confident adult in the back of their kayak.

Children under 15 need an adult companion in the kayak.

Please note: We are trying to offer this event to Whangarei locals

Registrations are essential. Only 64 spots available. Sea conditions permitting. Koha/donations are appreciated - there will be a donation box on site.

This event is funded by the Department of Conservation, supported by Pacific Coast Kayaks and celebrating seaweek.

When: Saturday 13th February 2021

Sessions are 10.30am, 11.30am, 1:00pm and 2:00pm - please arrive 15 minutes prior to your slot for registration and lifejacket fitting.

Bring: Footwear for kayaking. Spare change of clothes. Sunglasses, hat and sunscreen. Short trousers.Lifejackets and kayaks are provided

Where: Waikaraka Council reserve rest area on Whangarei Heads Road (please note: this is not the marine reserve at Reotahi!)

Directions: If coming from Onerahi, the Waikaraka Council Reserve can be found on the right hand side of the road just before you get to Waikaraka (70km speed limit). There is a gravel area for parking in front of the reserve, you will see the EMR gazebo set-up as well as an EMR teardrop flag!

Please note that this event is subject to potential COVID-19 restrictions. Please do not attend this event if you are unwell!

FAQs

Are there ID or minimum age requirements to enter the event?

EMR has a minimum age of 8 years for kayaking/paddleboarding. If you’re child is under the age of 15 an adult participant has to accompany that child in the kayak to ensure adequate ratios.

What are my transport/parking options for getting to and from the event?

There is parking available on the gravel carpark at the reserve

How can I contact the organiser with any questions?

You can email the organiser at isabel@emr.org.nz