A private introduction to kayaking lesson covers the fundamental skills of kayaking handling and water safety – including self-rescue, hazard awareness, balance, paddling straight, turning, stopping and often more.
As a student develop skills and gain confidence, a participant could go for a distance paddle.
60min lesson + 30min additional practice: at the end of the session and if time permits, there may be an opportunity for freedom paddling within the bay.
Arrive at Mission Bay as ready as you can be.
Essential items you will need:
• Paddling clothes (to wear while on the water): Swimwear, quick-dry shorts or leggings, thermal top and/or rash top.
• Spare change of clothes (for before/after). Include at least 1 heavy/warm layer in winter months or if it’s cold: e.g fleece top
• Sunscreen and hat
• Towel
• Lunch / snacks and water bottle
• Loads of smiles, energy and enthusiasm
Social Protocols
- Respect the environment - You will be out in nature for this experience so please help protect our environment by taking all your rubbish with you.
- Be a great listener - Have fun and stay safe by following instructions carefully.
- Stay safe in the outdoors - Your guides know the environment better than anyone and are there to keep you safe; listen to ALL their instructions, ALL the time.
- Be sun smart - Make sure you bring sunblock to protect yourself from the Kiwi sun (even on cloudy days!)
Cultural Protocols
- A chance to relax - This experience is one way Kiwis like to relax and enjoy life so it will seem very relaxed. Have fun, enjoy slowing down (away from work or study) and relax!
- Be on time - While the experience will be a relaxed one, make sure you allow yourself plenty of time to arrive early so you don't keep your guides and others waiting.
- Don't be shy - Kiwis are very friendly, open people so this experience is a great opportunity to not be shy, smile lots and make some new friends.
- Hello and goodbye in Māori - If you want to start practising some basic Māori phrases, you could try using ‘Kia ora’ (hello) and ‘Ka kite’ (goodbye).
