Kayaking

The northern harbour (including Matakana Island) has secluded beaches to explore and plenty of sea birds. Look for the shag colony nesting 100m upstream from the Tanners Point Ramp. Occasionally there are orca pods in the main channel and you may be lucky enough to spot kingfish swimming together above a ray, or kahawai working in schools.

Kayaking Waihi Beach

The harbour can cut up rough without much warning and beginners are advised to stay close inshore if the weather looks doubtful. The harbour entrance back to the Bowentown estuary and arcing across to Matakana Island is a no-go area except for experienced sea kayakers. There can also be whirlpools in the area out from Anzac Bay and a rip between Shelley and Anzac Bays.