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Kayaks

Updated: 09 Oct 2007
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Introduction

With summer coming, a kayak could be just the thing. But what should you look for? We found a world of choice.

There are kayaks suited to the sea and others best in white-water. Some kayaks are built for beginners, while others require the balance and skill of an Inuit hunter.

We take a look at the 5 main kayak types; consider cost, safety and maintenance; and explore some of the top sea-kayaking spots in New Zealand.

Note: this report is a buying guide only. It does not contain test results or brand-specific recommendations.

Types of kayak

Five main kayak types

Sit-on-top kayaks
These are the most user-friendly kayaks. They're best in warmer weather, because the paddler sits astride the kayak and is exposed to the elements.

Many people prefer sit-on-tops because they don't require an exit strategy when they tip. It's also easier to climb back on board when you're out in deep water. The popularity of sit-on-tops - especially with beginners - has spawned many specialist versions. You can now buy sit-on-tops for fishing, day-trips, racing, and fooling around in the surf.

Traditional/recreational kayaks

These kayaks most resemble what Eskimos paddle. They're made from durable plastic and have a hollow hull in which you sit. Traditional kayaks keep you warm and dry during long trips. You can also fit a waterproof seal (a spray-skirt) to the cockpit, which allows you to traverse rougher rapids.

A lower centre of gravity means more control than a sit-on-top. But the combination of a cockpit, spray-skirt and rounded hull takes more practice to master.

White-water kayaks

White-water kayaks come in three types: play boats, creek boats and river runners. All are variations on a stubby design with a flat hull. The flat hull and short length means white-water kayaks are extremely manoeuvrable.

But they're not for beginners. Their extreme manoeuvrability can make them difficult to paddle in a straight line. The cockpit is also snug; your knees are locked beneath side braces and a spray-skirt seals you within the boat. White-water kayaks are made to be submerged. We recommend getting some training before you buy one.

Sea kayaks

These are the opposite of white-water kayaks. They're long, sleek boats with "v" or bilge-shaped hulls. Sea kayaks "track" well (they stay straight when you paddle) and they glide easily through the water because of their longer water-lines.

Sea kayaks are expedition boats built for days spent exploring the coastline. They come fitted with rudders and storage compartments. The nature of sea kayaking means that you'll venture offshore. You'll need to have a good grasp of your boat before tackling New Zealand's treacherous coastal waters (see Kayaking safely).

Multi-sport kayaks

Multi-sport kayaks are racing boats designed for endurance events that include a kayaking leg - such as the famous Coast-to-Coast multi-sport event.

Multi-sport kayaks are harder to master than other kayak types. They have long water-lines and rounded hulls that make it easy for them to tip in waves and rapids. We found it difficult to stay upright even in calmer water.

How much will it cost?

A basic sit-on-top kayak, excluding paddle and life jacket, costs between $500 and $800. From there prices can head ever upwards - because there's no end to the accessories you can fit around a kayak.

Costs table
Buying second-hand

Second-hand kayaks are available from some sports retailers, especially those that run training courses and guided tours. It's worthwhile checking out second-hand entry-level kayaks in all five types.

Beginners' kayaks are usually made from tough plastic (the exception being multi-sport kayaks). Their performance won't suffer too much from past knocks.

We recommend that beginners buy second-hand kayaks from a retailer rather than online sites like Trade Me. A retailer will let you try the kayak before you buy; you can also compare it against a range of other kayaks.

And remember that you'll need more than just a boat and paddle to start. Retailers are better placed to provide you with a snug-fitting life jacket, as well as the right roof-rack to hold the new purchase on your car.

Checklist

If you're thinking about buying a kayak, here's what to consider.

You'll find that small details either make or break a kayak for you. Those details won't be obvious if the kayak is sitting on a shop shelf. The first rule is to pick a retailer who lets you try a range of kayaks before you buy.

A sea kayak
Weight

Can you lift your kayak? Carrying your kayak from the garage to the car-roof and then from the car to the shore requires muscle power. Weight is also a factor on the water: a heavier kayak can be harder to paddle.

Size

Bigger kayaks are unwieldy to carry. And where are you going to store it? Make sure it fits into your garage.

Handles

Solid handles will make transportation easier. Check for kayaks that come with a handy travelling wheel lodged in the bow or stern.

Stability

Good stability is an important feature for beginners. But make sure that greater stability doesn't come at the cost of sleekness, as wider kayaks often take more effort to paddle.

Cockpit

Your cockpit needs to be a snug fit, while allowing you to enter and exit easily. If your cockpit is too wide, you'll have to reach out from side to side when you paddle. If it's too cramped, you'll find it difficult to bail out if you tip over.

Seat

A poor backrest will make extended kayak trips uncomfortable. Make sure that the backrest provides you with enough support, and that the form-fit seat fits your form.

Paddles

Paddles vary in length and weight depending on the type of kayak. Sea kayaks have longer, lighter paddles with smaller blades. White-water kayaks have short paddles made from stronger and heavier materials. Expect to pay more for the lighter paddles in each kayak type.

Compartments

Some kayaks come with compartments built into the hull. Well-designed compartments are waterproof and sealed around a bulkhead. This means that the hull doesn't flood (and your kayak doesn't sink) if you're suddenly submerged with the compartment open. Unsealed compartments mustn't be opened while on the water.

Hydrodynamics

A hydrodynamic kayak cuts through the water with minimum effort, but this sleekness needs to be balanced with stability. Some kayaks also "track" better than others. This means that you don't have to re-adjust direction with each stroke.

Caring for your kayak

Most damage to kayaks occurs out of the water, because of rough transportation or poor storage.

  • The family car offers both subtle and spectacular ways to destroy your new boat. So before setting off to the river or coast make sure that your kayak is safely secured to the roof. Tie flags to the bow and stern if the kayak's longer than your car.

  • Over winter, store your kayak away from direct sunlight. Sunlight can break down finishing coats on top-range boats, and it may warp plastic kayaks. Make sure the hull is well supported if you're storing your kayak on racks. A sagging hull will lead to stress fractures and warping.

  • At the beach, carry your kayak over rocks and concrete on your way to the water. Even durable plastic hulls will wear down if they're dragged along rough surfaces.

  • Once you've finished kayaking in the sea, wash the boat in fresh water and dry it thoroughly. Remember to rinse and dry the internal compartments too before storing your kayak as salt water is corrosive. In fact, it's best to leave all hatches open when storing the boat. This allows air to circulate through the compartments and reduces humidity inside the boat.

  • Make sure you wash and dry your kayak after a day's paddling in fresh water, too. Many aquatic pests are spread from waterway to waterway on the hulls of boats. Rinse your kayak, paddle and footwear with a solution of dishwashing liquid (five percent) and water - and then dry thoroughly - to slow the spread of algae such as didymo in our lakes and rivers.

Kayaking safely

Always wear a flotation device when kayaking

Kayaks are boats, not toys, so there's potential for getting into trouble while on the water.

Many of the safe-boating tips from both Water Safety New Zealand and Maritime New Zealand also apply to kayakers:

  • Wear a PFD or Personal Floatation Device at all times.

  • Be safe - be seen. Use bright colours for the kayak, paddle blades and clothing.

  • Dress for cold water immersion in rivers, seas or lakes.

  • Ensure you carry signalling devices in case you have to be rescued; such as a waterproof VHF radio, torch, whistle, flares, or cellphone in a waterproof bag.

  • Always leave your trip intentions with a reliable friend or relative, including the number in the party, where your trip is going and an overdue action time.

  • Always check lake or marine forecasts before trips.

  • Paddle in a pod (group) at the pace of the slowest paddler.

  • Attach a leash to your paddle and keep your hands on the paddle if you capsize. You are easier to find in the water if you stay with your kayak.

Ferg's safety tips

Four-time Olympic champion Ian Ferguson recommends you:

  • Wear a helmet if playing in rapids or surf.

  • Attach a bright flag to the stern of your kayak if paddling in popular boating areas.

  • Learn proper kayaking techniques (courses are available through kayaking clubs and some retailers).

  • Beware of strong offshore winds. Gusts can easily drift kayaks out to sea.

  • Think ahead - kids paddling a kayak in the surf are easier to see if you've bought them a bright-coloured kayak.

  • Keep a second kayak handy in case you need to paddle out and tow tired kids back to shore.

Top sea-kayaking spots

Polly Miller kayaking the Arctic Ocean

Meet Polly Miller (pictured on the left of the photo), an ardent kayaker who set out with two friends in early July to kayak around Svalbard, an archipelago in the Arctic Ocean above mainland Europe.

Equipment for the 56-day expedition included food, cookers, tents, repair kits, clothing, dry-suits, maps, a compass - and three guns to ward off marauding polar bears. All this gear was packed into three sea kayaks.

Kayaking in the Arctic Ocean is dangerous: "Sometimes we paddled about 20km off-shore. The water temperature hovers around one to two degrees, and the wind is always blowing. You don't want to end up in the drink! There are also walruses, which have a reputation for attacking kayaks. We met a few along the way and they are simply enormous."

So why would anyone want to kayak that far north? "I've always wanted to visit a polar region and access to Svalbard is relatively easy by plane. The wildlife is extraordinary. Birds, seals, arctic foxes and reindeer are totally unafraid; they sneak right up on you. Quite often I'd be feeling cold and miserable and a curious puffin or seal would brighten the day."

Polly says New Zealand is a paddling Mecca. "There are many unsung kayaking heroes living in New Zealand. I got into the sport because the people are such excellent value."


Top 10 New Zealand sea kayaking trips

Kerry Howe is an avid sea kayaker and author of the book Coastal Sea Kayaking in New Zealand. We asked Kerry to pick his top New Zealand sea kayak adventures. They're listed geographically from North to South.

  • Bay of Islands: There's a great Department of Conservation (DOC) camp on Urupukapuka Island. Experienced kayakers can paddle out to Cape Brett and through the hole in Piercy Island.
  • Tutukaka coast, Northland: The coastline from Tutukaka to Whangaruru is a kayaker's dream. But make sure the weather's settled before heading out. Lots of road access and several campsites, including a DOC camp at Mimiwhangata.
  • Mahurangi, Auckland: Put in at Sullivan's Bay. Lots of islands to explore including magnificent Motuora Island with its DOC camp. The energetic can circumnavigate Kawau Island.
  • Inner Hauraki Gulf, Auckland: There are three gems here - paddle out to Rangitoto Island, and walk to the summit from Mackenzie Bay. Otherwise, try the stunning Motutapu and Motuihe Islands (complete with great DOC campsites).
  • Coromandel Peninsula: Tiki tour around the peninsula from Fantail Bay to Waikawau. There are numerous DOC camps to stay in - but watch the wind while paddling.
  • Cape Runaway to Opotiki, Bay of Plenty: A remote area that resembles how New Zealand used to be. Easy road access, legendary fishing and some free camp sites still available.
  • Cape Kidnappers, Hawke's Bay: A great day trip from Clifton or Te Awanga. Make sure you climb the cliff track to the amazing gannet colony.
  • Kapiti Island, Kapiti Coast: This trip is in the Cook Strait so watch the weather! Kapiti Island is a nature reserve - you can only land at a few spots. Definitely no camping without a permit.
  • Queen Charlotte Sound, Marlborough Sounds: There are endless paddling opportunities from Picton. Innumerable coves, islands and camp sites. Highlights include Ship Cove and the bird sanctuary of Motuara Island.
  • d'Urville Island; Marlborough Sounds: For experienced paddlers only - rugged, remote, potentially dangerous ... but well worth it.

Paddling tips

Ferg's five paddling tips

We talked to Ian Ferguson about proper kayaking technique and fitness. Ferg says that a good paddling technique makes kayaking an excellent low-impact exercise. A proper paddling stroke works core upper-body muscles and uses back and leg muscles as well.

  • A proper kayaking posture starts with a straight back. The paddler should then lean slightly forward from the waist.
  • Each stroke obtains power from the entire upper body. Pivot your torso and push one shoulder forward (don't just reach forward with your arms).
  • When the paddle blade enters the water, pull your leading shoulder back and drive your torso all the way through the stroke. This will twist your body sideways and set you up for the next stroke.
  • The continuous twisting movement forces you to balance the boat by readjusting your legs - so it's a full-body exercise.
  • A good paddling technique is also efficient. Major muscles drive the kayak quickly through the water with minimal effort ... allowing you to explore rivers and coastlines for hours on end.


More information


Report by Luke Harrison