An upstream river paddle is fun and games on a budget for all the family, writes Rob Cox.
Those with some energy (but not cash) to burn while in the Bay of Islands, should look up Bay of Islands Cruise and Kayak tours. We tried out their Twilight Safari, - a river kayak followed by a unique waterfall experience. It sounded a bit daunting but the photos on their website looked stunning so we gave it a nod.
Wonderful couple Taylor and Ruby picked us up in their shuttle and took us to the rivermouth where we climbed aboard their custom-built kayaking adventure craft. They went through the history of the area and explained the ins and outs of kayaking while we slowly cruised upriver. It was autumn so the sunset was great but the air fairly fresh. Then it was on with wetsuits and lifejackets and one by one the kayaks went in the river beside the boat.
After some instructions on how to get in without falling overboard, we paddled away among the mangroves, heading upstream. The river is full of life, fish pop their heads up, shags nest on branches overhanging the river constantly threatening to "whitewash" on you; even a turtle and has decided to call this river home.
Beautiful bends and nooks all need investigating, you don't even notice yourself starting to tire. Then you hear it: that sound of a waterfall. It's a good job we're heading upstream or I would be panicking by now. Around the last bend, and there it is. To be honest, it's not that scary, it's a fantastic waterfall that sweeps around the entire river, like a mini-Niagara.
