Itinerary
This scenic paddle begins at Christmas Beach on Herald Island, where calm tidal waters and mangrove-lined shores create a peaceful launching point into the upper Waitematā Harbour. As you set off, the journey winds through sheltered estuaries, quiet inlets, and stretches of native bush and wetland habitat, offering a close-up perspective of Auckland’s coastal ecosystem.
Paddling upstream along the Rangitopuni and upper harbour waterways, you’ll pass areas rich in birdlife, including pūkeko, herons, shags, kingfishers, paradise shelducks, and migratory wading birds feeding along the mudflats. The route is particularly tranquil at high tide, with reflections of mangroves and surrounding hills creating a mirror-like surface.
The destination, the historic Riverhead Tavern, sits proudly on the waterfront and marks the end of a rewarding journey through one of Auckland’s oldest river transport routes. Dating back to the 1850s, the tavern was once a key stopping point for travellers arriving by water from the city and surrounding settlements.
Combining adventure, natural beauty, and heritage, this paddle offers a unique way to experience Auckland’s waterways—ending with a well-earned stop at one of New Zealand’s oldest riverside pubs.
