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Welcome to Zo's Kayaks
Welcome to Zo's Kayaks
We are based in Rocky Bay on the beautiful island of Waiheke. This is a calm bay, sheltered from the prevailing south-westerly winds so very suitable for beginners. However, there is also lots to explore for the more seasoned kayaker including the varied coastline around Whakanewha Regional Park and the many private coves accessible only by small boat. Children are very welcome, either in their own boat or the smaller ones as passengers with their parents. We offer accompanied tours as well as independent hires for the more experienced kayaker at just $30 per hour.
How to find us
How to find us
We are based on Glen Brook Road, close to the old Rocky Bay Store just one minute from the beach and opposite the Rocky Bay Hall. If you're driving just take the O'Brien Road turn off from the Ostend/Onetangi road and keep going until you see the big blue penguin! Free parking! If you're on the bus take the 502 from Matiatia to Rocky Bay and keep going until the end of the line. This bus goes through Oneroa, Palm Beach and Ostend on the way so do stop off and have an explore as part of your trip. If you're camping at Poukaraka Flats then you can walk to us via Dotties Lane, Cathedral Track (SW) and Omiha Road, or at low tide just walk around the coastline.
Don't be fooled by google maps and end up at Whakanewha, if in doubt plug 'Rocky Bay Hall' into your phone or satnav.
How to book
How to book
Just give me a call or text on 029 0203 9884. Kayaking is weather-dependent, I post the forecast and tides every day on the chalkboard just outside the Rocky Bay Store so if its not looking good we'll stay indoors and do it another time. You can arrange your booking around activities at the wonderful Rocky Bay Hall and meet the locals at the regular events including:
The Rocky Bay Cafe - 9am to 1pm every Saturday and Sunday
Gulf News Thursday - 1pm to 4pm every Thursday.
Happy Hour - First Friday of every month 5.30pm to 7.30pm (but has been known to go on later!). BYO drinks and food.
See my Instagram at @zoskayakswaiheke for the latest news and updates.
What to bring and the all-important weather
What to bring and the all-important weather
These are the main things to bring, but don't worry if you forget something - we've got spares.
Footwear you don't mind getting wet - Ideally wet shoes, but old trainers or even Jandals are fine (sandals to non-Kiwis).
A change of clothes and a towel - We use the most stable kayaks we can, so you're very unlikely to capsize. However, you're on the water so getting wet is always a possibility; it's best to wear shorts and a t-shirt and leave your good stuff on the shore. We'll have dry bags for your valuables. You may want to stop off for a swim at one of the quiet, pristine beaches around Whakanewha or Kaikuku bay so don't forget your towel.
Sun protection - As with anywhere in New Zealand, sun-screen, a hat and sunglasses are recommended.
A water bottle - Preferably filled with water.
There are no shops at Rocky Bay, apart from the old store which has been derelict for many years but is in the process of having new life breathed back into it by the wonderful Mel and Simon. You can follow their progress at www.rockybaystore.co.nz but its going to be a while before it's a shop again so stock up at Woolworths/Four Square with your favourite food and drink before you come.
Ideal weather is light wind and no rain. The current conditions are below, for a more detailed forecast checkout windy.com. If you've booked and it doesn't look good give us a call on 029 0203 9884 the day before as Waiheke has a bit of a micro-climate so weather forecasts are not always accurate and Rocky Bay is very sheltered.
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