Auckland # Tamaki River # Kayak # Paddle

Tatjana and I launched from Pakuranga Sailing Club on a perfect kayaking day — warm sun, calm water, and not a wave in sight. The estuary was glassy and peaceful, making every paddle stroke feel smooth and easy. We headed south first, exploring the channels and shoreline before reaching the highlight of the trip — paddling through the drainage tunnel beneath Highway 1. Inside, our paddles echoed off the concrete walls while the motorway rumbled above us. It felt like a hidden passage most people never get to see. After coming back into the sunlight, we turned north and followed the water toward Farm Cove. The whole trip felt effortless, just cruising across still water, talking, and enjoying the day. By the end, we’d covered a great distance without it ever feeling hard. Just sunshine, adventure, and a peaceful day on the water .