STAND UP PADDLE BOARDING
Kia ora! Welcome to our dedicated page to Stand Up Paddling (also known as SUP). Here you'll find more information about the activity and what to expect from ours services.
We’ve been operating from Waikorire (Pilot Bay) since 2008 — we know this place like the back of our hands! You can trust us to guide you safely on the open water, while helping you build confidence and learn about our area through exploration.
We lead with Haumarutanga and Rangitiratanga. We welcome our guests with Manaakitanga, Whānaungatanga and Kōtahitanga - honouring our connection to the rohe, to our moana and to our maunga.
Stand Up Paddle Boarding is a fun and accessible way to get active, spend time outdoors, and explore this beautiful area. It’s a fully immersive experience — you’ll engage your whole body, stay present in the moment, and find opportunities to connect with the moana, with nature, and even with parts of yourself you didn’t realise needed space to breathe.
At Mauao Adventures, we meet you where you're at - with support, guidance and no pressure.
Come with a friend or take a moment for yourself - SUP offers something for everyone :)
Here’s a breakdown of the services we offer:
Beach Ops
This service runs on weekends and holidays during the warmer months (see season schedule). You're welcome to book ahead online or simply show up and book on the day. It includes:
30 minute, 1 hour, and 2 hour SUP Hire
Each hire option includes the essentials: a board, paddle, leg rope, and life jacket. The only difference is the time on the water.
Best suited for those who are familiar with paddling, confident in open water or fast learners.
Not recommended for those who need extra support or encouragement
Express Lesson – 1 Hour
A great option for learning the basics.
This product includes a 15-minute (max) land-based technique session, followed by unguided time on the water to apply your new skills and explore the harbour at your own pace.
Best for those who want to learn the fundamentals and feel confident heading out solo.
Not recommended for those who need extra support or encouragement
Intro to SUP – 1 Hour
A great option for those who need a bit of extra support in building both competence and confidence.
This product includes a 15 minute (max) land-based technique lesson, followed by time on the water to apply your new skills AND you have an instructor alongside you to provide technical tips and support where needed.
SUP Adventure – 2 Hours
A great option for those seeking more of an adventure!
This product offers everything you need to get you out into our harbour and start exploring! After a 15-minute (max) land-based technique session, your guide will take you on a scenic paddle through the harbour toward Mauao (Mount Maunganui).
You'll land on a beach, share some snacks and beverages and take a short walk, where your instructor will share a kōrero about the area’s culture and/or history — before paddling back to base.
Good to know:
- We have a limit of 20 boards.
- There is no guarantee that participants will stay dry, so expect to get wet.
- Children 7 years and under cannot paddle independently and must be actively accompanied by an adult guardian.
- Children 8 to 15 years can paddle independently however parents have to actively supervise them from the beachside.
- Ages 16+ are classified as adult for our services
Ready to Paddle?
Whether you're trying something new or coming back for more, we're here to help you feel comfortable, capable, and connected out on the water.
Book online, pop down to Waikorire (Pilot Bay) or reach out if you're unsure where to start - we will meet you where you're at.
See you on the water soon! 🌊