Bay of Islands (North Island)
With warm weather throughout the year, hundreds of sheltered bays and inlets, and spectacular views, the Bay of Islands was made for stand up paddleboarding. Russell is great for beginners and it’s easy to cruise the surrounding waters and create your own Bay of Islands SUP itinerary.
Auckland/Bay of Plenty (North Island)
New Zealand’s eastern coastline generally has the calmest waters, and the areas north and south of Auckland have emerged as top-notch stand up paddleboarding destinations. One hour north of the city is Matakana and the Goat Island Marine Reserve. Less than three hours south of Auckland are Tauranga and Mt. Maunganui. All of the above are active in the New Zealand SUP scene.
Rotorua (North Island)
Rotorua offers some of New Zealand’s most unique stand up paddleboarding experiences. Instead of the usual coastal bays, paddling in Rotorua involves a mix of lakes, narrow channels, freshwater springs, and hot springs. Some of the best places to go are Lake Rotoiti, Lake Tikitapu, and Lake Tarawera.
Abel Tasman (South Island)
Bright yellow kayaks traditionally have dominated Abel Tasman, but there’s no reason that stand up paddleboards can’t coexist. The park has terrific weather and some of the most settled conditions in New Zealand. All told, there may be no better way than a paddleboard to explore Abel Tasman’s translucent waters, rocky outcroppings, and wildlife.
Christchurch (South Island)
Stand up paddleboarding hasn’t made as big of a splash on the South Island due to the colder conditions, but when the sun is shining Christchurch is a great place to learn. It’s one of the few places on the South Island outside of Abel Tasman to offer SUP lessons, and once you become confident on flat water, paddleboard surfing is available too.