Twilight Glow worm Kayak

Starting late afternoon or early evening, enjoy spectacular sights you can only experience by kayak. Paddle slowly through the Pokaiwhenua canyon and, when darkness falls, be guided by titiwai (NZ glow worms) on either side.

BOOK A GLOW WORM KAYAK TOUR

Duration

4hrs

Age

8 years +

Tour Price

From $99 p/p

Activity Grade

Easy

Paddle along the southern edge of Lake Karapiro, over the old submerged Horahora power station that produced electricity for the early Waihi goldfields. Learn the history of Horahora village as you travel back to what feels like a pre-historic time.

Enjoy the twilight and silence of being on the water as the day draws to an end. As night arrives over the lake, you will paddle slowly up the Pokaiwhenua Stream, through the canyon carved out by water over hundreds of years. Native ferns and trees drape over you, bird life is all around.

When darkness falls we float silently back downstream, being guided by titiwai on either side sparkling like Christmas lights.

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Need to know

The temperature does drop as we drift back downstream on this glow worm kayak tour so we recommend that you bring warm layers of clothing, preferably merino. We do not recommend wearing jeans as they get very cold when wet.
To make your experience as comfortable as possible, we provide you with overpants, splash jackets and wet shoes.
There is a changing area at our base where you can layer up before embarking on the tour. We also have secure storage facilities where you can leave any additional belongings.
You do require a moderate level of fitness and will be required to paddle yourself for the entire tour.
Glow worms don’t like camera flashes, so please ensure your camera’s flash is turned off after dark.
Alcohol or smoking is not permitted.
Please check the risks of our tour here

Tour Info

Bookings are essential
Minimum numbers apply
Minimum age is 8 years for glow worm kayak tours
All children under 15 years are to be accompanied by a capable adult
Double kayaks are used on tours (if your group is an odd number, you may be required to share with a person from another group)
Tour group size ranges from 4 - 24 people
Return shuttle from Cambridge available on request (additional cost). Please get in touch for more information and to check availability.

Are you seeking a more exclusive and intimate experience?

Check out our Private Twilight Glow Worm Tour - get your own personal guide, upgraded gear, kayak backrests, a platter with local cheeses, chocolates and fruit, and more.

A fantastic way to celebrate a special occasion, or just treat yourself!

For groups of less than 4 people please contact us directly to book.

Itinerary

Arrive & check-in– Arrive at our base and check in and get fitted with your gear. You will be sent a text message the day of your tour confirming the exact time of check in.

Safety briefing & setup – Meet your guides for a safety briefing and basic paddling instruction before heading out.

Paddle across Lake Karapiro – Begin with a gentle paddle along the lake edge, passing the submerged Horahora Dam while your guide shares local history.

Enter the Pokaiwhenua Stream – As the light fades, paddle into the sheltered canyon surrounded by native bush and birdlife. Continue upstream (approx. 1–1.15 hours / 1.5km)

Stretch & explore – There’s an opportunity to step out of your kayak, stretch your legs, and hear more about the history of the area before continuing. Stop for a 30-minute break.

Glow worm experience –Once darkness falls, retrace your path as you drift quietly back down the stream beneath a stunning display of glow worms lighting up the canyon walls.

Return to base – Continue your relaxed paddle back to base, taking in the peaceful night-time atmosphere.(approx. 45 minutes). covering around 3km in total.