Urupukapuka, Bay of Islands
22 - 24 Feb. The leader is James. James will be travelling up Friday afternoon. If folk want an escort across to the island because it's your first trip, James will be crossing about 1930 (7.30 pm) Friday. You will need to allow about an hour to pack your kayak unless you know you can do it faster.
First timers need to contact James so he knows to wait for you (or organise a morning escort if it's Sat morning).
This is a favourite kayaking spot and there is a multitude of destinations, including lots of good fishing. We often see dolphins, and even orca have been spotted in the area.
In the mornings we will be setting off 0900 (9 am) from the island.
Make your own campsite bookings- this is a popular time so if you are keen, the sooner the better.
Getting there - head north to Rawhiti. Parking and launching at Rawhiti Campground which is a bay or two before you reach Kaimarama Bay at the end of the road. Secure parking is available for approx. $5.00 per night. (It may have gone up)
You pack your kayak on the beach and paddle over to the island campsite, where we will set up camp for the duration. This is a 20-30 minute paddle.
Facilities at the campsite are basic - long drop toilets, and fresh water supply. You need to be fully self-sufficient regarding camping & cooking equipment, food etc. However, further around the island there is a shop with rather expensive ice-creams, basic supplies, beer, ice - if they are open.
If weather conditions are suitable, the rock gardening in the area is as good as it gets - take your helmet (or hire one from the shop) if you are planning on going near the rocks. There is also an option to paddle out to Cape Brett (Hole in the Rock) for those who are fit enough. Routes depend on the weather and swell conditions when we get up there. If conditions are unsuitable to make the crossing we will stay at Rawhiti at the marae/campground.
There is also plenty of walking and fishing in the area.
First timers need to contact James so he knows to wait for you (or organise a morning escort if it's Sat morning).
This is a favourite kayaking spot and there is a multitude of destinations, including lots of good fishing. We often see dolphins, and even orca have been spotted in the area.
In the mornings we will be setting off 0900 (9 am) from the island.
Make your own campsite bookings- this is a popular time so if you are keen, the sooner the better.
Urupukapuka Bay Campsite: Cattleyard or Kukupa end of the camp http://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-
This trip is suitable for beginners+. You need to be self-sufficient with camping gear and food and a means of cooking it. The rock gardening in this area is stunning with many kilometres of caves and tunnels. We recommend a helmet if you are going near the rocks.
Getting there - head north to Rawhiti. Parking and launching at Rawhiti Campground which is a bay or two before you reach Kaimarama Bay at the end of the road. Secure parking is available for approx. $5.00 per night. (It may have gone up)
You pack your kayak on the beach and paddle over to the island campsite, where we will set up camp for the duration. This is a 20-30 minute paddle.
Facilities at the campsite are basic - long drop toilets, and fresh water supply. You need to be fully self-sufficient regarding camping & cooking equipment, food etc. However, further around the island there is a shop with rather expensive ice-creams, basic supplies, beer, ice - if they are open.
If weather conditions are suitable, the rock gardening in the area is as good as it gets - take your helmet (or hire one from the shop) if you are planning on going near the rocks. There is also an option to paddle out to Cape Brett (Hole in the Rock) for those who are fit enough. Routes depend on the weather and swell conditions when we get up there. If conditions are unsuitable to make the crossing we will stay at Rawhiti at the marae/campground.
There is also plenty of walking and fishing in the area.
Additional hazards -
Boat traffic - we cross a busy shipping channel so ensure that you are highly visible and keep a good lookout.
Rock gardening - lots of caves, tunnels etc - take a helmet if you are planning to play in the rocks.
Ocean swells - outside the islands the swell can be very large depending on conditions, inside the islands is generally protected.
Urupukapuka is free of pests. Please check your kayak and gear for rats, mice, insects (including Argentine ants) and weed seeds. For more information on what you can do to help to keep this island pest free...
If you have any questions please contact James james@canoeandkayak.co.nz
Boat traffic - we cross a busy shipping channel so ensure that you are highly visible and keep a good lookout.
Rock gardening - lots of caves, tunnels etc - take a helmet if you are planning to play in the rocks.
Ocean swells - outside the islands the swell can be very large depending on conditions, inside the islands is generally protected.
Urupukapuka is free of pests. Please check your kayak and gear for rats, mice, insects (including Argentine ants) and weed seeds. For more information on what you can do to help to keep this island pest free...
If you have any questions please contact James james@canoeandkayak.co.nz