Waimarino Adventure Park sits on the banks of the Wairoa River and has been the Bay of Plenty's home of on-water adventure for more than 30 years. It began as a kayaking school and has grown into a much-loved summer playground, while still running the guided trips that first made its name.
By day, in the warmer months, the riverside park becomes a water playground with floating trampolines, blobs, slides, a giant swing, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards. By night, its signature glowworm kayak tours paddle across a calm lake and into a quiet, glowworm-lit canyon, a guided experience regularly rated one of the best things to do in the whole region.
The park is about a 20-minute drive from Coastal Cottage, on the Wairoa River inland from the city. The water park is seasonal and the glowworm tours book out quickly, so it is well worth planning ahead.
Highlights
Glowworm kayak tour
A guided evening paddle into a canyon lit by thousands of glowworms.
Summer water park
Trampolines, blobs, slides and inflatables on the river through the warmer months.
Kayaking and SUP
Hire gear and explore the river under your own steam.
Tips for your visit
- Book the glowworm kayak tours well ahead, they fill quickly.
- The water park is seasonal and mainly runs over summer, check ahead.
- Great for older kids and teens, and adults too.
Getting there from the cottage
About 20 minutes from the cottage on the Wairoa River.
Best time to visit
Summer for the water park, and dusk for the glowworm tours.