Hillary Guides
Explore Great Barrier Island with us!
We have a range of awesome guided trips that cater for people of all fitness levels, ages and previous outdoor experience. Trips and activities we offer are: Sea kayak day trips, Sea kayak multi-day trips, Surf kayaking, Launch supported trips, Sailing, Coasteering, Rock climbing, Bush adventures.
We have our new boat the “Lady Hillary” available for chartered dive trips, kayak support and fishing trips.
Contact Great Barrier (09)429 0762 or Simon@opc.org.nz
Freedom Rentals
We have both Full Day and Half Day rental options:
| Sea kayak (double) Includes: paddle, spraydeck, life jacket, paddle float, pump,map |
$45/$70 |
| Sea kayak (single) Includes: paddle, spraydeck, life jacket, paddle float, pump,map |
$35/$50 |
| Rowing dingy Includes: oars, life jacket |
$45/$70 |
| Sit-on-top kayak Includes: paddle, life jacket |
$25/$35 |
| Snorkelling gear fins, mask, snorkel |
$15 |
| Wetsuit | $20 |
All of our gear comes with the following:
- Flares and emergency beacons available
- Full safety briefing provided. Rescue boat back-up
- Camping, cooking. Tramping gear also for hire
- All equipment hire subject to suitable weather forecast and a safety briefing by qualified
- OPC staff
Explore rocky coastlines and sandy beaches in our comfortable double sea kayaks. Design your own trip with our experienced guides, which could include:
- Snorkeling among the famous Great Barrier sea life
- Taking advantage of the fantastic fishing
- Exploring beautiful forests and historic sites on land
- Walking to waterfalls and fresh water swimming holes
- A visit to nearby Kaikoura Island or Glenfern Sanctuary, or both, working towards becoming pest-free, and home to a range of native flora and fauna.
Load up with our complete range of overnight gear and head out for an expedition you will never forget. Stay within Ports bercrombie and Fitzroy to explore the secret nooks and campsites that our guides can show you. Or go further afield and live the adventures that await you around Great Barrier’s remote coastline
Plan your own trip with an experienced local guide…
- Visit sea caves, shipwreck sites, and untouched beaches
- Watch the sun rise from the east coast, and set from the west coast
- Take a break from kayaking and visit a historic kauri dam, or World War II gun emplacement
Sea kayak to a remote location and get picked up by the Lady Hillary. She can take 6 double sea kayaks on the roof.
Our experienced instructors, great gear and ideal locations make everything easy. We can take a novice and convert them into a sailor in no time, or take a salty sea dog and help them to work on more advanced techniques.
Sailing Instruction
If you would like more information, please contact OPC directly on simon@opc.org.nz or 0800 OUT THERE
Coasteering is a dynamic, action-filled sport. It is a journey that involves swimming, climbing and jumping. As well as taking on a fun-filled challenge, you will also explore inaccessible places and discover the sea life of the fascinating inter-tidal zone.
We know the best spots on both the east and west coasts, so we can tailor your trip to the weather conditions or your desired level of challenge.
Full day journey to circumnavigate Green Island. Sea kayak out there past scenic beaches and rocky coastlines. There’ll be time for a snorkel as well if you are keen!
Green Island
If you would like more information, please contact OPC directly on simon@opc.org.nz or 0800 OUT THERE
Go hard and learn new skills! We have a great range of natural rock climbs and abseiling sites. The views out over the bay are spectacular!
Via Ferrata
Our Via Ferrata is a cableway that snakes over the top of the 3 Kings pinnacles. This offers a safe and easy way to access the top of our climbs and a fantastic view. Take a packed lunch and stop for a picnic on the way!
Check out our Bush Adventures for our Steep Creeking Trips Below!
You might want a gentle stroll in the bush, or one of our adrenalin-filled ‘steep creeking’ trips. Great Barrier is full of amazing bush, a variety of bird life, rugged terrain and spectacular views.
‘Steep creeking’ involves a trip down a creek bed, using ropes and harnesses to overcome whatever challenges you find along the way. Explore untracked bush and conquer abseils of up to 50m high!
Get out on the famous Whangapoua surf break, or any one of a range of other options to find the perfect wave for you. Our sit-on-top kayaks are purpose-designed to make surfing easy. You’ll be carving up the waves in no time!
Surf Kayaking Instruction
Combine with an activity like coasteering or snorkelling for a great day out.
Whether you are a novice wanting an introduction to the amazing underwater world, or a committed spearo wanting to target kingies at The Needles, we can take you to the right places.
Great Barrier is a free-diver’s paradise, with clear water, amazing terrain and heaps of fish life.
Combine a snorkelling experience with a sea-kayaking trip, or go out in any of our powerboats to target a range of specific spots.
Our 12 metre boat, the Lady Hillary, can take you anywhere you want to go. Coffee and a hot shower included!