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Lake Whakamaru Cruise - The Paddleboat Co
Join the Paddleboat Company for a unique and historic 2 hour cruising experience surrounded by the outstanding natural beauty of Lake Whakamaru.
Your journey on The Otunui, one of New Zealand's oldest operating paddle boat's, begins at Whakamaru Island and cruises for 20km around the lake to Whakamaru Dam with the Whakamaru Reserve, Waipamu Station, Waikato River Trails and wetlands, forests and farmlands being passed along the way.
Native trees such as Rimu and Ponga and wildlife such as Paradise Ducks, Swans and Falcons are abundant in the area and can be observed from the deck of the vessel. You may even catch a glimpse of wild boars roaming at the edge of the forest next to the river.
The ancient volcanic peaks of Kaahu and Whakaahu can usually been seen reflected in the lake along with the trout patrolling beneath the surface.
The sheltered lake provides the ideal setting for this relaxing waterways cruise.
The friendly crew will provide an interesting commentary throughout the journey and will be happy to answer questions along the way. The crew will even provide music if requested to accompany your journey.
Complimentary tea and coffee are provided throughout the cruise. The vessel also has a licensed bar and toilet aboard.
This cruise will be thoroughly enjoyed by anyone interested in maritime history, natural beauty, tranquility, gently emerging gorgeous vistas, and personable hosts. For a bit more exercise, you can ask to be dropped off at Whakamaru Reserve to hike back along the beautiful Waikato River Trail beside the lake.
Price: Adults $45, Child $15 (Under 16)
Duration: 2 Hours
Location: Whakamaru Island on Lake Whakamaru, 1105 Ongaroto Road, Kinleith SH30. 20 minutes from Tokoroa, 30 minutes from Rotorua or Taupo, 90 minutes from Hamilton or Tauranga and 3 hours from Auckland.
Authenticated ReviewsAll of our reviews are from people who have booked and paid for this activity thru Bookme
Showing all 5 authenticated Bookme reviews
jacoba cressy from New Zealand wrote on 06 January 2014
Lovely outing
We loved the beautiful lakeside scenery. It was peaceful and enjoyable. Thank you very much.
Leone Inu from New Zealand wrote on 02 January 2014
Great deal for an experience to remember!
I was look for a low budget way to take advantage of all the beautiful scenery at Lake Whakamaru that would be relaxing rather then energetic. I am so glad I found book.me.co.nz online and even more grateful they were offering half price for such a great cruise. The captain was funny and had plenty of information to share, and as we were a small group there was plenty of room to lounge around and enjoy the sights. Because he was 10 minutes late, the Captain even offered up lunch for free, which was worth it!! Thanks to the Captain and his hard working crew of one, the kids will remember this boat ride for many Christmases to come! Leone from Auckland~
Rae Boyes from New Zealand wrote on 01 January 2014
Gorgeous lake, great lazy cruise
Incredible cruise on a gorgeous man made lake. Perfect afternoon for those who feel like a lazy sightseeing excursion. Drive to and from Rotorua was lovely too.
Rachael Gee from New Zealand wrote on 29 September 2013
Relaxing, long and enjoyable cruise
Relaxing, long and enjoyable cruise. Will be back
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Marilyn Sunley from New Zealand wrote on 03 February 2014
Lake Whakamaru
Excellent trip, good info on the hydro schemes and The Waikato river. We enjoyed the company of other passengers & the crew & are going to recommend the trip to friends who are about to visit the area. We have been meaning to do the trip for years & then heard from a friend who had booked the trip through "book me" so it made us get on to doing it as well. The only reason we gave it 4 star & not 5 is we would have liked a bit more history of the boat & the Wanganui River A very iconic boat with a lot of history. In saying that we loved the day & the crew were marvellous & we were so lucky that the weather on the day was perfect Regards Marilyn & John