Guided Tour of Big Kanu Glowworm from Tauranga

Embark on an incredible tour of Lake McLaren and enjoy the stunning scenery, birdlife, and, of course, the glowworms. Spend your time paddling across the lake and in between the canyons.

Take a 25-minute trip to Lake McLaren from Tauranga’s CBD. At the edge of the lake, launch the big Kanu and work together to paddle your way to the head of the lake. Enjoy the calm of the waters and spot the colorful birdlife that is an integral part of the ecosystem of the lake.

Find yourself basking under a sky of stars with the glowworms that rest on the walls of the high-sided canyon, Mangapapa. The many thousands of glowworms light up the narrow spaces. Learn all about their life cycle from the guides who possess vast knowledge about this species in particular. Since the tour happens once a day – an hour before sunset – you can enjoy the fantastic sunset as well as the glowworms lighting up the night.

Guided Tour of Big Kanu Glowworm from Tauranga

The Guided Tour of Big Kanu Glowworm from Tauranga is a sightseeing adventure that includes a guided boat tour, viewing local birds and unique glowworms in Lake McLaren. This 2-hour tour departs daily from Tauranga and covers approximately 10 kilometers of the lake’s edge. The tour offers audio guidance in English and Maori, ensuring an immersive experience for all participants. Key attractions include Lake McLaren, Mangapapa Canyon, and the unique glowworm habitat at the head of the lake. With a focus on environmental education, this tour is perfect for nature enthusiasts and families alike.

Explore Lake McLaren

Your tour stops at Lake McLaren where you will embark on an exhilarating journey through one of New Zealand’s most biodiverse water bodies. Established in 1925, Lake McLaren spans over 40 hectares, offering a rich ecosystem that supports numerous bird species and aquatic life. As you paddle your big Kanu across the lake, observe the intricate details of its shoreline, including rare plant species such as Carex secta and Schoenus litoralis. The tour highlights the unique geological features of the area, showcasing how Lake McLaren was formed by glacial retreat approximately 15,000 years ago. Guests spend about an hour exploring different parts of the lake, witnessing first-hand the beauty of nature’s untouched landscapes. Unlike other tours that focus solely on water activities, this one integrates educational elements to provide a holistic understanding of the region's natural history.

Navigate Mangapapa Canyon

At Mangapapa Canyon, guests can marvel at the high-sided canyon walls towering over 100 meters above the lake surface. This geological wonder was carved by ancient river systems and now serves as a crucial habitat for various wildlife species. The canyon's unique biodiversity includes rare bird species such as the New Zealand falcon (Falco novaeseelandiae) and the grey warbler (Gerygone igata). Visitors spend about 30 minutes navigating through this narrow passage, learning about its geological significance from their knowledgeable guide. Unlike other canyons that are primarily known for hiking trails, Mangapapa Canyon offers a unique experience of exploring via watercraft, providing an intimate look into the canyon's hidden corners.

Witness Glowworms at Lake McLaren Head

Your tour culminates at the head of Lake McLaren where you will witness the mesmerizing glowworm light show. This area is approximately 2 kilometers from the lake’s edge and features a dark, cave-like environment ideal for observing these bioluminescent creatures. The glowworms, scientifically known as Arachnocampa luminosa, have been part of New Zealand's ecosystem for over 10 million years. With their unique life cycle, which includes egg-laying, larval development, and pupation stages, the glowworms provide a fascinating example of nature’s adaptability. Guests spend about 20 minutes exploring this habitat, learning from their guide about the peculiarities of these creatures’ lifecycle. Unlike other glowworm habitats that are often tourist-heavy, Lake McLaren offers a serene setting for observation, allowing visitors to appreciate the natural beauty without disturbance.

Tour Highlights

• Embark on a guided canoe journey at Lake McLaren
• Traverse Mangapapa Canyon with stunning views and unique biodiversity
• Learn about glowworms’ lifecycle in their natural habitat
• Audio guidance available in English and Maori languages
• Experience the serene beauty of Lake McLaren's head area
• Navigate through high-sided canyons and observe rare bird species
• Access to exclusive viewing areas for unique wildlife observation
• Convenient departure from Tauranga with detailed itinerary provided

Perfect for nature lovers, families, and eco-tourists, this guided tour provides an educational experience through interactive exploration. The 2-hour format allows you to explore Lake McLaren's rich ecosystem, navigate the awe-inspiring Mangapapa Canyon, and witness the enchanting glowworm light show at the lake’s head area, giving you a comprehensive understanding of New Zealand’s natural wonders.