Kayaking In Franz Josef

Discover One Of New Zealand’s Most Unique Kayaking Destinations

Most visitors come to Franz Josef for the glacier. Though some of the region’s most memorable experiences happen on the water. Just a few minutes from the township, Lake Mapourika offers calm waters, incredible mountain views, abundant birdlife and access to ancient rainforest, making it one of the most unique places to kayak in New Zealand.

Why Lake Mapourika is one of the best places to kayak in New Zealand

New Zealand is home to countless places to kayak, but few offer the unique combination of glacier views, ancient rainforest and abundant birdlife found on Lake Mapourika. Formed thousands of years ago by the retreating Franz Josef Glacier, the lake sits just minutes from Franz Josef township, yet often enjoys calmer, drier conditions and expansive views of the Southern Alps.

Unlike many kayaking destinations that are exposed to ocean swell, strong tides or river currents, Lake Mapourika’s sheltered waters make it suitable for paddlers of all experience levels. As you glide across the lake, you’ll discover hidden rainforest creeks, towering kahikatea and rimu trees, and some of the most spectacular mountain scenery on the West Coast.

On calm mornings and evenings, the lake becomes famous for its mirror-like reflections of the Southern Alps, creating unforgettable views and incredible photography opportunities. Combined with its rich birdlife and peaceful atmosphere, it’s easy to see why kayaking on Lake Mapourika is often one of the highlights of a visit to Franz Josef.

Wildlife Encountered On Lake Mapourika

One of the most remarkable aspects of kayaking on Lake Mapourika is the diversity of wildlife found. Nestled between the Southern Alps, ancient rainforest, wetlands and the West Coast, the lake supports an incredible variety of species that would rarely be found together anywhere else.

The surrounding rainforest is home to native birds including tūī, kererū, bellbirds and kākāriki, while kōtare (Sacred Kingfishers), white-faced herons and black swans are regularly seen around the lake’s edge. The wetlands also provide important feeding grounds for the rare kōtuku (White Heron), and Lake Mapourika is one of the most reliable places in New Zealand to encounter these elegant birds in the wild.

Adding to this unique mix, kea, the world’s only alpine parrot, are occasionally seen in the region, highlighting the lake’s position between alpine and coastal environments. Beneath the water’s surface, longfin eels inhabit the lake and waterways, while the surrounding rainforest forms part of an important conservation area for the rowi, New Zealand’s rarest kiwi. Although rowi are nocturnal and rarely seen during the day, visitors often pass through habitat where these remarkable birds live and breed.

From alpine parrots and rainforest birds to wetland species and native fish, Lake Mapourika offers one of the richest wildlife experiences available on any kayaking trip in New Zealand.

Guided Kayaking, or Kayak Hire?

Whether you prefer the insight and local knowledge of a guided experience or the freedom to explore at your own pace, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Lake Mapourika. Guided kayak tours are ideal for first-time paddlers, wildlife enthusiasts and those wanting to learn more about the area’s history and ecology, while kayak hire offers experienced paddlers the flexibility to create their own adventure on one of New Zealand’s most scenic lakes.

• Lake Mapourika Guided Kayak Tours 
  Choose from a range of guided kayak experiences, from relaxed paddles across the lake to exploring hidden rainforest creeks and combining your adventure with a guided rainforest walk. Free photos are included on all guided tours.
• Lake Mapourika Self-Guided Kayak Hire
  Explore Lake Mapourika at your own pace with flexible kayak hire options. You’ll receive a map, safety briefing and local advice before setting off to discover one of New Zealand’s most unique kayaking destinations.

Best time of year to kayak in Franz Josef?

Kayaking is a year-round activity in Franz Josef, with each season offering something different.

• Spring (September-November)
  Native birdlife becomes increasingly active and the surrounding rainforest bursts into life with flourishing koru and new growth.  We see swans with cygnets and ducklings around the lake. 
• Summer (December-February)
  Long daylight hours allow for kayaking into the evening at sunset, and warm temperatures create ideal conditions for swimming.  The lake water temperatures often reach up to 26 degrees Celsius. 
• Autumn (March-May)
  Often brings calm conditions, beautiful reflections and crisp mountain views.  Lake mist starts to form overnight, making for magical morning kayaking conditions.
• Winter (June-August)
  Believe it or not – this is the most scenic time of year for kayaking.  Calm, settled days and warmer temperatures than other South Island kayaking spots.  Incredible morning kayaking conditions through misty lake conditions, perfect for photography.  Earlier sunsets make for scenic afternoon kayaking.