Pick up a paddle

New Zealanders have a love affair with sea kayaking. The country’s craggy coastline cries out for exploration, and there’s no better way to conduct a thorough survey than bobbing along in a narrow fibreglass vessel. Golden beaches, underwater kelp forests, glass-clear waters and fiery sunsets are the everyday landscape for locals. Tour operator Phil Dove is happy to hit the water any time, but the afternoons are his preference. “Stewart Island is never better than in the late afternoon. There’s no motor noise, just a chorus of birds, and the sunsets are incredible.” Half-day and whole-day tours can be customized to suit the experience and interests of the paddler. Tours are weather dependent, and should be booked in advance. Everything is included: just bring shoes, warm clothes and a camera. 7 Leonard Street, Oban, 027 444 2323, facebook. com/Phils-Sea-Kayak-Stewart-Island