Canoes and kayaks (covered canoes) are in our blood, ever since the first people (Māori) came to New Zealand in great ocean-going canoes (or waka) nearly 800 years ago, these simple boats have been seen on our horizons and make up an important part of our culture. We a Nation of Islands and Inland Waterways with more than 600 near shore Islands, 14,000 kilometres (8,700 miles) of coastline and some stunning inland lakes and wilderness rivers just waiting to be explored - its no wonder so many people come here for a New Zealand kayaking holiday.
