Boating and Kayaking

Canoe & Kayak Taranaki. Guided trips taking in the best of the region's ocean and river paddling include the Nga Motu–Sugar Loaf Islands Marine Park (three hours; NZ$95 per person, minimum two people); the scenic Mokau River (one day; NZ$110 per person, minimum five people); and the more challenging Waitara River with its Class II rapids (four hours; NZ$85 per person, minimum three people). 468 St. Aubyn St., New Plymouth, Taranaki, 4310. 06/769–5506; www.canoeandkayak.co.nz/Taranaki.

Happy Chaddy's Charters. A launch with this outfit inevitably starts with the guide announcing, "Hold on to your knickers, because we're about to take off." Then the old English lifeboat rocks back and forth in its shed (with you on board), slides down its rails, and hits the sea with a spray of water. Even if your time is limited, spare an hour for this trip, during which you'll see seals, get a close-up view of the Nga Motu–Sugar Loaf Islands, and be thoroughly entertained by skipper and former fisherman Happy Chaddy (NZ$40). Rental kayaks (singles NZ$15 per hour, doubles NZ$30 per hour) and paddleboards (NZ$30 per hour) are also available here. Note that Chaddy usually takes a break in midwinter. Ocean View Parade, New Plymouth, Taranaki, 4310. 06/758–9133; www.chaddyscharters.co.nz.