Paddle craft

Find information and resources for recreational kayaking, waka ama and canoeing activities in New Zealand.

Before you head out 

Before you head out on the water to do an activity like canoeing, kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding, download our helpful guides and other resources here.   

a kayak with two women and a boy is being paddled down a river with forests up on each sides of the banks.

Paddle Craft Guide Download

PDF: 3Mb, 18 pages
SUP Guide

Stand-up paddle (SUP) boarding guide  download

PDF: 1.98 Mb, 12 pages
Kayaker Approaching Shore

Paddle craft guide

Request a copy of the Paddle craft guide

The basics

Before you head out, make sure that you’re visible and prepared

a photo of a kayak that is sitting on a pebbled beach with a number of oars attached to it.

Carry essential safety gear

Make sure you have all the key safety equipment on board.
a man's hands doing up a lifejacket for a small child

Wear the correct lifejacket

Take the right lifejacket for each person on board, and wear them.
a group of kayakers traversing through a set of river rapids.

Regional safety information

Respecting the boating bylaws in your region will keep you safe.
a man is in the open water and has his right hand raised for help.

Cold water survival techniques

Learn to survive overboard with techniques and precautions.

Safety tips 

Paddling is a great way to enjoy the water while staying active, but safety always come first. These essential tips can make all the difference to help ensure you come home safe. 

Preparation is key. 

Know the basics
Safer Boating NZ

Kayaking

Kayak safety tips – preparation is key

Safe kayaking starts before you even hit the water. The video above gives some vital safety tips to ensure you come home safe. 

Special thanks to ACC and KASK for partnering on this video.

Practice getting back onto your craft 

If you fell out of your kayak, could you get back in? Practicing re-entry could save your life in a dangerous situation. Know before you go to ensure you come home safe. 

Special thanks to ACC and KASK for partnering on this video. 

Use a spray skirt 

If you are kayaking in rough conditions, a spray skirt can help stop water entering your craft. Know before you go so you can come home safe. 

Know before you go to ensure you come home safe. 

Special thanks to ACC and KASK for partnering on this video. 

Paddle craft

Expert tip: Safety equipment for paddle craft 

Our boating expert points out the need to always have the right equipment for paddle craft to ensure you come home safe. 

Expert tip: Wetsuit considerations for paddle craft

Our boating expert explains how to dress for the water temperature, as cold water shocks and hypothermia can kill.