Puhoi paddle’s a pure pleasure
Paddling up the Puhoi River is the most leisurely and family-friendly adventure you can imagine. Spend up to two hours paddling gently downstream for eight kilometres along the quiet, winding river, from the town to its mouth in the estuary at Wenderholm.
The friendly kayak people will get you sorted, instructed and equipped, so even novice paddlers will feel confident and relaxed about setting of.f They will then pick you up and bring you back to town again afterwards.
You can choose from single or double kayaks, or even go for a bigger Canadian canoe that will take two adults and two small children (aged at least 3 years old).
Why go?
Because, if you listen carefully, you might hear the chortle of a kingfisher. And sharp-eyed people might spot an eel. You’ll certainly see lots of birds – herons, pu¯keko, kereru¯, ducks, and geese – as well as sheep and cows on the farmland you pass.
You will follow the Twin Coast Discovery Highway for a bit, but then angle away to meander through peaceful scenery, which includes mangrove swamps and native bush.
You’re travelling with the tide, and the river is calm and sheltered for most of its length so, with no great effort required, you can concentrate on relaxing and enjoying the ride.
By the time you get to the more open water of the estuary, you’ll be practised enough to be ready to put a bit more effort into your paddling for the final section.
Insider tip
‘‘Puhoi’’ means ‘‘slow water’’, so you know there won’t be any challenging currents in this tidal river.
You can hire the kayaks by the hour at Puhoi, if you don’t fancy the full trip, or you can instead hire
On the way/nearby
Puhoi has many delights. Find out about its bohemian history at the little museum in the old Convent School, and get inspired to follow the Heritage Trail around the town, visiting buildings and sites that mark the town’s nearly 160 years of history.
The artefacts and photos on display in the pub are a good reason (if you need one) to go in there. You can also eat there, or call in at the Puhoi Cottage Tearoom for a proper devonshire tea. The Puhoi Valley Cafe is a must too, not only for its wide range of awardwinning cheeses, but the team makes custards as well. The butterscotch is recommended.
And, on the last Sunday morning of the month, there’s a busy farmers’ market with live music, as well as a variety of stalls.
How much?
Single kayak hire for the trip is $55, double $100, Canadian double canoe, $110. Open every day except Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
Best time to go
Any fine day, but only when the tide is going out – ring the canoe people about this beforehand. Allow plenty of time for a meal or picnic at either end of the paddle.