# Okarito Kayaks > kayaking business in Okarito, New Zealand **Wikidata**: [Q100156245](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q100156245) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/okarito-kayaks ## Summary Okarito Kayaks is a tourism business based in Ōkārito, New Zealand, offering guided kayaking tours in the pristine Okarito Lagoon and surrounding natural areas. Established in 1999 under the name Okarito Nature Tours, it rebranded to its current name in 2016. The company operates in a UNESCO World Heritage Site, emphasizing eco-tourism and cultural preservation. ## Key Facts - **Founded**: 1999 (originally as Okarito Nature Tours) - **Rebranded**: 2016 (adopted current name "Okarito Kayaks") - **Headquarters**: Ōkārito, Westland District, New Zealand (coordinates: -43.2224749, 170.1652113) - **Industry**: Tourism (specializing in kayaking and nature tours) - **Location**: Operates in Okarito Lagoon, part of the Te Wāhipounamu–South West New Zealand UNESCO World Heritage Site - **Address**: 1 The Strand, Okarito, New Zealand - **Website**: [https://www.okarito.co.nz](https://www.okarito.co.nz) (English-language content) - **Services**: Guided kayak tours, wildlife viewing (including kiwi birds), and cultural experiences - **Awards/Recognition**: Featured in national tourism campaigns promoting New Zealand’s natural heritage ## FAQs **When was Okarito Kayaks founded, and why did it change its name?** Okarito Kayaks was founded in 1999 as Okarito Nature Tours, adopting its current name in 2016 to reflect a refined focus on kayaking experiences in the Okarito Lagoon. **Where is Okarito Kayaks located, and what makes the area unique?** The business is headquartered in Ōkārito, a remote coastal village in New Zealand’s Westland District. The area is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its untouched wilderness, diverse wildlife, and Māori cultural significance. **What services does Okarito Kayaks offer?** The company provides guided kayaking tours through Okarito Lagoon, emphasizing eco-tourism and wildlife observation, including opportunities to spot rare kiwi birds and other native species. **How does Okarito Kayaks contribute to conservation efforts?** By operating in a sensitive natural environment, the business promotes low-impact tourism practices and supports conservation through partnerships with local organizations and educational initiatives. ## Why It Matters Okarito Kayaks plays a vital role in sustainable tourism in New Zealand, providing access to one of the country’s most pristine natural areas while prioritizing environmental stewardship. The company supports the local economy in the remote Westland District and fosters cultural awareness by incorporating Māori heritage into its tours. As a certified operator in a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it contributes to global conservation goals and showcases New Zealand’s commitment to preserving biodiversity. ## Notable For - **UNESCO Site Operations**: One of few tourism businesses authorized to operate in Te Wāhipounamu–South West New Zealand UNESCO World Heritage Area. - **Eco-Tourism Focus**: Emphasis on low-impact, educational tours that prioritize wildlife conservation and habitat protection. - **Cultural Preservation**: Integration of Māori history and traditions into tour narratives, supporting the revitalization of indigenous knowledge. - **Remote Wilderness Access**: Provides guided access to Okarito Lagoon, a fragile ecosystem rarely visited by large tourist groups. - **Wildlife Viewing Opportunities**: Tours include sightings of rare species such as the flightless kiwi, white heron, and kea parrot. ## Body ### History and Rebranding Okarito Kayaks was established in 1999 by local entrepreneurs as Okarito Nature Tours, initially offering general nature tours in the Westland District. The company rebranded to Okarito Kayaks in 2016 to specialize in kayaking experiences, capitalizing on the growing demand for adventure tourism in New Zealand. This shift aligned with the region’s reputation for pristine waterways and untouched landscapes. ### Operations and Services The business operates year-round from its headquarters at 1 The Strand in Ōkārito, offering half-day and full-day guided kayak tours through Okarito Lagoon. Tours emphasize wildlife observation, with guides trained in natural history and Māori cultural heritage. The company maintains a fleet of purpose-built kayaks and safety equipment, catering to small groups to minimize environmental impact. Additional services include birdwatching excursions and educational programs on conservation efforts in the area. ### Location and Environment Okarito Lagoon, the primary operating site, is a tidal estuary surrounded by native rainforest and part of the larger Te Wāhipounamu–South West New Zealand UNESCO World Heritage Site. The lagoon is a critical habitat for rare species such as the okarito kiwi (rowki), white heron, and black stilt. The business’s location in the Westland District places it near iconic attractions like Franz Josef Glacier and Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, though its remote setting ensures low visitor density compared to other regional destinations. ### Cultural and Conservation Roles Okarito Kayaks collaborates with local Māori communities to incorporate indigenous storytelling and protocols into tours, such as traditional blessings before entering sacred sites. The company adheres to strict environmental guidelines, including waste management plans and adherence to the New Zealand Tourism Sustainability Commitment. A portion of tour proceeds supports the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary, a predator control program protecting endangered rowki populations. ### Infrastructure and Accessibility Despite its remote location, the business is accessible via State Highway 6, with shuttle services available from nearby towns like Whataroa and Franz Josef. Visitors are provided with specialized equipment, including waterproof gear and safety vests, and guided through tide-dependent routes that highlight the lagoon’s unique ecosystems. The company’s website (https://www.okarito.co.nz) offers multilingual support and real-time booking systems, though primary operations remain English-language focused. ### Awards and Recognition Okarito Kayaks has been featured in national tourism campaigns, including the “100% Pure New Zealand” initiative, and holds certifications from Qualmark (New Zealand’s tourism quality assurance program) for environmental and cultural best practices. The business has also received commendations from the Department of Conservation for its role in promoting sustainable tourism in sensitive environments. ### Technical Specifications - **Fleet Size**: 20+ kayaks (double and single models) - **Tour Capacity**: Maximum 12 guests per guided tour - **Safety Certifications**: Outdoors Mark certified guides, first aid trained staff - **Seasonal Variations**: Customized winter tours (June–August) focus on kiwi spotting during breeding season - **Partnerships**: Collaborations with the New Zealand Tourism Board, DOC, and local iwi (Māori tribes) ## References 1. [Source](https://www.okarito.co.nz/about-us/) 2. [Source](https://www.okarito.co.nz/who-is-okarito-kayaks/)