Stand up paddle boarding is the fastest growing water sport in the world. Whether it’s the ocean, lake or river, gliding along calm water is a blissful experience for anyone, regardless of whether or not they have tried stand up paddle boarding before.
But there is something different about stand up paddle boarding in our neck of the woods.
As a relatively new experience in the National Park area, cruising Lake Otamangakau on a paddle board has offered visitors a chance to see the area from a new perspective.
With full support of your guides at My Kiwi Adventure, this is a safe and friendly activity that can be enjoyed by the whole family.
Enchanting Lake Otamangakau is an unbeatable location
Within UNESCO listed Tongariro National Park, Lake Otamangakau is renowned for its trophy-sized Rainbow Trout, stunning scenery and solitude. As the second most fished lake in the Taupo district, Lake Otamangakau sees many visitors during the fishing season between October and May.
With water so clear and still, visitors often see large Rainbow Trout swimming beneath their feet.
Known to locals as the Big O, what makes this lake so unique is its height above sea level.
At 616 metres above sea level, stand up paddle boarding adventures on Lake Otamangakau are the highest guided alpine paddle boarding experiences in New Zealand.
Lake Otamangakau is a man-made lake, created during the Power Scheme. Its serene location has become a popular visiting spot and today the lake is treasure in the area. With Tongariro National Park as your back drop, a paddle boarding adventure on Lake Otamangakau is a must-do summer activity.
Stand up paddle boarding is a great family activity
The crew at My Kiwi Adventure are the passionate people behind stand up paddle boarding tours on Lake Otamangakau.
From November to April, My Kiwi Adventure hosts tours to people of all ages and levels. If you’re thinking of taking the kids to Tongariro National Park this summer, book in a stand up paddle boarding adventure and create memories to last a lifetime.
This tour begins with a 1.5 hour instruction on basic technique, so everyone embarks with the same level of confidence. Paddle boarding on Lake Otamangakau runs only in the calm summer months. Your paddle will be a smooth, relaxed ride. You’ll be surprised at how quickly you find your balance and ease into the activity.
There is no experience required for a stand up paddle boarding tour. Your experienced guide will be with you throughout the journey and all gear and transport is provided. All you need to remember is your togs, towel, sunscreen and snacks – just like you would for a day at the beach.
See Tongariro National Park from a unique perspective
Standing in the middle of Lake Otamangakau and looking up to Tongariro National Park is truly remarkable. The peaks of Mt Ruapehu, Mt Ngauruhoe and Mt Tongariro will be in full view as you paddle the remote alpine lake.
As New Zealand’s oldest national park, Tongariro is top on the list for many visitors both national and international. Deciding on how best to see the area can be difficult as there are so many activities available. However, stand up paddle boarding is proving to be an increasingly popular choice for all ages.
Mountains dusted with white, clear summer skies and pristine water beneath your feet makes for an unforgettable experience.
The Tongariro National Park region is constantly bustling with all sorts of activities. From biking to hiking, there is so much to see and so many ways to see it.
There’s no better way to wind down after a day’s exploring than retreating to quality accommodation close by. With the comforts of home, an on-site restaurant, bar and outdoor hot tubs, The Park Hotel has everything you need to relax and unwind.
Only a few minutes’ walk from My Kiwi Adventure’s meeting point, The Park Hotel is the perfect accommodation to enjoy this experience to its fullest.
Summer is a beautiful time to visit Tongariro National Park, so book with The Park Hotel and make the most of your time in one of New Zealand’s most incredible locations.