Marlborough Sounds kayaking was on my summer bucket list, and since last Friday was officially the last day of summer, and we had an Australian friend staying, I leapt at the chance.  My daughter, Indigo, friends, Wills, Anthony (from Melbourne) and I opted to rent a couple of double kayaks and head to Lochmara Lodge for coffee.

Sara, Dave and Julie at Marlborough Sounds Adventure company were awesome as usual, the kayaks were all ready to go, so having packed our gear in the dry bags provided, we donned our skirts and BAs (buoyancy aids) and set off for the foreshore, where we embarked on our wee adventure. It was a glorious day, the sun glinting off the water.

A highlight for me was seeing a couple of little blue penguins (or the korora,) swimming next to my kayak. They are a New Zealand species and are the world’s smallest penguin. We also came across a fur seal sunbathing on a rock near Wedge Point just before the Grove Arm.

As a local, I never get over how stunning these waters are, and hope to spend way more time on the water this year. There are over 1500 kilometres of coastline to explore, made up of a multitude of bays, coves and inlets – a fabulous place for exploring by sea kayak.

Marlborough Sounds Adventure Company also offer mountain biking and both guided and freedom walks on the renowned Queen Charlotte Track, so if you looking to explore New Zealand’s highlights, make sure you book your adventure now. Join MSAC on their facebook page and check out all their news.

Have fun, and the autumn looks good, so the water is calling!

Tika