New Zealand · Water Adventure

2-Hour Stand-Up Paddle Boarding Tour to Lucas Creek Waterfall

2 Hours Round trip from Auckland Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Guided stand-up paddle boarding tour through Albany Basin
02 Paddle to Lucas Creek Waterfall through calm, scenic waterways
03 Suitable for all levels with basic SUP instruction included
04 Learn about the local area, flora, fauna, and marine life
05 Enjoy a short break at the waterfall for photos and relaxation
06 Includes SUP board, paddle, life vest, and experienced guide

Explore the calm waterways of Albany on a guided stand-up paddle boarding tour to Lucas Creek Waterfall. Designed for all experience levels, this relaxed adventure combines easy instruction, scenic paddling, and time to enjoy the natural surroundings of Auckland’s North Shore.

Paddle through Albany Basin and into the creek, surrounded by lush vegetation and peaceful waters, while your guide shares insights into the local area, flora, fauna, and marine life. With a short stop at the waterfall and all essential equipment provided, it’s a great way to experience the outdoors from a different perspective.

Paddle through Albany Basin and into the creek, surrounded by lush vegetation and peaceful waters, while your guide shares insights into the local area, flora, fauna, and marine life.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 2 Hours

Tour type Shared

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Not included

Transport Not included

Wheelchair access Not applicable

City Auckland

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Meet and Brief (10 minutes)

Meet at the end of Wharf Road in the small car park.
Your guide will provide a brief introduction and explain the plan for the day.
Safety instructions and basic SUP techniques will be covered, ensuring you’re comfortable on the water.
Overview of the local area, marine life, and key points of interest for the tour.

Day 02

Paddle to Waterfall (45 minutes)

Begin your paddle from the launch area, heading up the creek through Albany Basin.
Intro to stand up paddle boarding and build confidence.
Glide through the calm waters, surrounded by lush vegetation. Your guide will share insights into the local flora and fauna as you paddle deeper into the creek.

Day 03

Break at Waterfall (10 minutes)

Stop at a scenic spot by the waterfall, taking a short break to relax and enjoy the natural beauty around you.
Stretch your legs, snap some photos, and listen to your guide’s additional information about the local environment.

Day 04

Paddle Back to Launch Area (45 minutes)

After the break, retrace your route and paddle back down the creek to the launch area.
Take your time enjoying the peaceful surroundings and reflecting on the experience as you make your way back.

Day 05

Debrief and Pack Up (10 minutes)

Upon returning to the launch area, gather for a final debrief with your guide.
Share your thoughts and experiences, and ask any last questions about the tour.
Pack up your gear and conclude the tour.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Auckland 1 city · 2 Hours

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP) – A high-quality board suitable for all skill levels.
Paddle – A durable paddle to help you navigate the water.
Life Vest – A comfortable life vest for your safety and peace of mind.
Experienced Guide – A professional guide to lead the tour, provide instructions, and share local knowledge.

What's Not Included

Toilets – There are no toilets available at the meeting point or on the tour route.
Personal Items – Please bring your own water, snacks, and any personal belongings you may need.
Additional Gear – Dry bags or extra gear for personal use are not provided.

Know before you go

Hazards and Risks

Adventurous activities involve inherent hazards and potential risks, often coupled with the severity of hazards and the likelihood of risks.

Hazard: ‘‘Anything’’ that can cause harm. On this tour, this may include:

Natural Features: Rocks, mangroves, and creekbanks
Weather Conditions: Cold, wind, rain, or changing visibility
Equipment or Gear: Paddles and SUP boards
Situational Elements: Slippery surfaces, such as wet rocks or board
Man-Made Hazards: Obstacles such as docks, ramps, and boats in the vicinity
Risk: The potential for something to happen. Possible risks may include:
Minor to Serious Physical Injury: Slips, falls, strains, or accidents caused by uneven surfaces or falling off the paddleboard
Severe Outcomes: Hypothermia, drowning, or injury from environmental factors (e.g., collisions with objects or loss of balance)
Emotional Distress: Unexpected situations or challenges during the activity, such as difficulty in balancing on the paddleboard, fear of water, or discomfort from weather conditions

Hazard and Risk Rating: (Low 1 - 5 High)

This Activity has a Hazard and Risk Rating of 2

Adventurous activities offered by SNM could be dangerous if they’re not approached with care and responsibility. Participation in such activities is voluntary and not compulsory.

Hazards and risks are managed using a hierarchy of controls to choose the most effective control measures starting with elimination, then minimisation, substitution and isolation. Further measures take on administration controls and personal protective equipment if risks and hazards remain.

Logistics