Boating Around New Zealand

The temperate island nation is almost by definition a boat-lover’s paradise, and the boating industry is a big one in all its aspects.  New Zealand’s first inhabitants came to its shores in canoes made from hollowed logs, and the Maoris are still building them.  However, you’re certainly not limited to paddle boats in this country of many waters.  With plentiful rainfall for the lakes and rivers plus all that ocean around it, boating in New Zealand is a veritable cornucopia of delightful possibilities.

Quite simply, if you enjoy spending time on the water, there is no better place to be.  From deep sea fishing to a pampered champagne cruise, and from high-powered jet boats to sail-powered dinghies, every water-borne form of transport is available, with or without the experienced assistance of dedicated experts in your chosen craft.

For the sea-faring enthusiast, there really are no limits.  If you prefer the challenge of traveling under wind power, you can charter a Kiwi-designed sailboat with a Kiwi-proficient skipper and guide, or go it alone if you’re a more experienced sailor.  One of the very best spots in the world for sailors is the Bay of Islands, where the waters are relatively sheltered and the choice of enticing islands to visit seems endless.

There are basically three places where visitors can charter a boat, for short or long-term cruising with or without instruction and/or guides and crew to assist.  Auckland, known as the City of Sails, is a great place to base your explorations.  The city lies on Hauraki Gulf, where marinas and anchorages are plentiful, and the choice of options is boggling.  The Gulf encompasses around 1500 square miles;  if you want to literally get away from it all, here’s your chance.

The other best options for chartering sea-going craft are the Bay of Islands and the Marlborough Sounds at the top end of the South Island.  In the Sounds, with a coastline about 1500km long, again  the options are too extensive to list, but note that wherever in the water you go you’ll find some of the most beautiful scenery in New Zealand – or anywhere else on the planet.  For an afternoon, an over-niter, a fortnight or longer, there is a boat and an itinerary to suit every taste and capability.

Of course you won’t have to lose sight of land to enjoy a fantastic boating experience.  Kiwis are very much into boats of all types and sizes, from jet boats on white water rivers to surf-sailing, and from steam boat cruises on some of the magnificent lakes to kayaks that go where you can believe that no man has gone before.  It’s only a matter of preference, so make your choice and go for the water.