One of the highlights of my trip back to New Zealand was an excursion to Okarito Lagoon (on the West Coast of the South Island between Whataroa and Franz Josef Glacier). We set out in our bright yellow sea kayaks at about 9am. The tide was due to turn at 10:30am so we rode the tide in to the far reaches of lagoon first. There were white herons (kotuku) everywhere. We were able to paddle up to only about 10 feet away from them. One of the main rivers flowing into the lagoon is surrounded by Kahikatea forest. Paddling upriver takes you further into older and older forest. The feeling of exploring new territory is unmistakable.
But better than all of this are the mountains stretched out for miles. On a clear day these are stunning.
To do the trip you can base yourself in Whataroa or Franz Josef Glacier. Whataroa accommodation and Franz Josef Glacier accommodation includes a range of hotels, motels, lodges, bed & breakfasts, and retreats.
