ROTORUA KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Paddle the Quiet Spine Between Lakes: Ohau Channel Freedom Trip
Around 2 hours of self-guided paddling from Lake Rotorua down the Ohau Channel toward Lake Rotoiti, with kayaks, equipment, maps and shuttle transport provided by River Rats Raft & Kayak.
Paddle the Quiet Spine Between Lakes: Ohau Channel Freedom Trip.
Explore the Ohau Channel at your own pace: launch from Lake Rotorua, practice in sheltered water if conditions allow, then thread the slow-moving channel past low-hanging trees and out into Lake Rotoiti and the Okere Arm before being collected at the far end and returned to base.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Scenic channel and birdlife
The route threads a calm channel framed by lakes and shoreline vegetation, offering opportunities to watch local birdlife and take in Rotorua’s quieter waters at leisure.
True freedom: self-guided with support
This is a freedom trip—River Rats supplies kayaks, equipment, maps and information, and shuttles paddlers from the meeting point to the start, letting you set your own pace on the channel.
Variable water, simple choices
Expect slow-moving water through the channel where you’ll need to manoeuvre around low-hanging trees; past the channel exit the current eases and you’ll paddle down the Okere Arm toward the pickup point.
What the day feels like
What it feels like on the water
You’ll begin with sheltered strokes on Lake Rotorua (practice permitted if wind allows), then move through control gates into the Ohau Channel where the pace is unhurried and navigation requires care around shoreline obstacles; after the channel exit the current slackens and a steadier paddle carries you down the Okere Arm to the pickup point.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should choose alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Customers should bring a swimsuit, towel and shorts; all other equipment for kayaking is provided by the operator.
On-water time is around 2 hours (about 3 hours including transfers if applicable). Meet at the gravel parking area opposite 703 State Highway 33, Okere Falls for the shuttle to the start; transfers from central Rotorua commercial accommodation are available for an additional $15 per person—contact the operator to organise start time.
A minimum of four people is required for the trip to proceed (you may pay for four if you have fewer); there is a recommended maximum participant weight of 120kg.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip?
Around 2 hours on the water; plan on about 3 hours if including transfers.
Where do we meet and how do transfers work?
Meet at the gravel parking area opposite 703 State Highway 33, Okere Falls; the operator shuttles you to the start. Transfers from central Rotorua commercial accommodation are available for an additional $15 per person—contact the operator to arrange a start time.
What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit, towel and shorts; all other kayaking equipment is provided.
Do I need prior kayaking experience or to know how to swim?
The operator recommends that participants know how to swim and have kayaked before; if not, consider a freedom hire in a sheltered lake or request a guided tour instead.
Is there a weight limit or minimum group size?
There is a recommended maximum weight limit of 120kg. A minimum of four people is required for the trip to proceed—alternatively you can pay for four if you have fewer participants.
Is equipment provided and can I request a guided trip?
All equipment is provided. If you do not meet the recommended criteria or would prefer a guided experience, the operator can arrange guided tours on request, including scheduled guided hot-pools and evening trips.