Welcome to Kapowai Adventures, your destination for unforgettable Lake Rotoiti water activities in Rotorua.
Located at beautiful Ruato Bay, we offer self-drive jet ski hire, kayak hire, stand-up paddleboard rentals and unique lakeside experiences that showcase one of New Zealand’s most spectacular lakes.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation or quality time with family and friends, our water activities allow you to experience Lake Rotoiti from a whole new perspective. Inspired by the stories, traditions and values of Ngāti Rongomai, every adventure celebrates the unique connection between the lake, its people and its rich Māori heritage.
Book Direct
Book your Lake Rotoiti water activities directly with Kapowai Adventures. Whether you’re hiring a jet ski, kayak or paddleboard, booking direct gives you access to the latest availability, personalised service and local knowledge to help you make the most of your day on the lake.
Operating Hours
Open year-round
Operating hours vary depending on daylight hours, weather conditions and lake conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
We recommend booking in advance to confirm availability and the best time for your chosen activity.
Lake Rotoiti Jet Ski Hire
Feel the thrill of exploring beautiful Lake Rotoiti on one of our self-drive jet skis.
Choose from flexible hire periods ranging from 30 minutes to 4 hours and enjoy the freedom to discover secluded bays, stunning scenery and wide-open stretches of water at your own pace.
Whether you’re after an adrenaline-filled adventure or simply want to experience Rotorua from the lake, our jet ski hire offers an unforgettable day on the water.
Double rides are also available for children, allowing younger adventurers to safely enjoy the excitement with an accompanying adult.
Lake Rotoiti Kayak & Paddleboard Hire
Take a slower approach to exploring Lake Rotoiti with our kayak and paddleboard rentals.
Perfect for couples, families and solo adventurers, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding provide a peaceful way to discover the lake’s sheltered bays, native bush and beautiful shoreline.
Equipment is available from 30 minutes through to full-day hire, making it easy to enjoy everything from a short paddle to a full day of exploration.
Lakeside Lounge & Lake Rotoiti Activities
Relax with family, friends or colleagues in the Kapowai Lakeside Lounge, perfectly positioned on the shores of beautiful Lake Rotoiti. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a reunion, enjoying a work function or simply spending quality time together, the Lakeside Lounge offers a unique waterfront setting with spectacular lake views.
Play your favourite music through the Bluetooth speaker, bring your own food to cook on the portable BBQ, or enjoy freshly made coffee, cold drinks and delicious meals from the nearby 1118 Kawhe food truck.
Your Lakeside Lounge package includes:
- Gazebo shelter
- Lunch table
- Portable BBQ
- Bluetooth speaker
- Outdoor mat
- Stunning views across Lake Rotoiti
Enhance your visit by adding jet ski hire, kayak hire or paddleboard hire to create the ultimate Lake Rotoiti water activities experience. The Lakeside Lounge is available for two-hour bookings, with additional hours available if you’d like to stay longer.
Guided Lake Rotoiti Tours – Coming October 2026
From October 2026, Kapowai Adventures will introduce guided adventures on both Lake Rotoiti and Lake Rotorua.
Our Lake Rotoiti experience will depart from Ruato Bay and include Māori cultural storytelling, significant historical sites, spectacular scenery, thrilling open-water riding and a visit to the famous Manupirua Hot Pools, accessible only by water.
Our Lake Rotorua experience will depart from Hannahs Bay and explore the iconic Mokoia Island while sharing the legendary Māori love story of Hinemoa and Tūtānekai.
These guided experiences will combine adventure, culture and the natural beauty of Rotorua’s lakes into one unforgettable journey.
Discover the Spirit of Kapowai
Kapowai Adventures proudly embraces the traditions of Ngāti Rongomai.
The word Kapowai (Kapokapowai) is the Māori name for the dragonfly and translates to “Water Snatcher,” reflecting the dragonfly’s remarkable hunting ability.
For Ngāti Rongomai, the Kapowai is a kaitiaki, or spiritual guardian, symbolising protection, guidance and wellbeing.
Each dragonfly species represents values that inspire every experience we offer.
Marupo (Black)
Growth and Adventure — finding your wings and embracing new experiences.
Amoriki Kaporangi (Purple & Red)
Transformation and Wisdom — learning from life’s challenges and emerging stronger.
Kapuarere (White)
Protection and Wellbeing — encouraging positive energy and safe journeys.
These values guide every visitor experience both on and off the water.
Why Choose Kapowai Adventures?
- Lake Rotoiti water activities
- Self-drive jet ski hire
- Kayak hire
- Stand-up paddleboard hire
- Family-friendly adventures
- Lakeside Lounge hire
- Guided lake tours from October 2026
- Māori cultural storytelling
- Locally owned and operated
- Stunning Lake Rotoiti location
Explore More of Rotorua
After experiencing the beauty of Lake Rotoiti, discover more incredible attractions throughout Rotorua. From geothermal wonders and Māori cultural experiences to mountain biking, walking tracks and family adventures, there’s plenty more to explore.
Browse our Bay of Plenty Travel Guide to help plan your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Kapowai Adventures located?
Kapowai Adventures is based at Ruato Bay on beautiful Lake Rotoiti, just a short drive from Rotorua.
What Lake Rotoiti water activities are available?
We currently offer self-drive jet ski hire, kayak hire, paddleboard hire and Lakeside Lounge hire. Guided Lake Rotoiti and Lake Rotorua tours will begin from October 2026.
Can I hire a jet ski without joining a tour?
Yes. Our self-drive jet ski hire allows you to explore Lake Rotoiti independently after receiving a safety briefing.
Are kayaks and paddleboards available to hire?
Yes. Kayaks and stand-up paddleboards can be hired from 30 minutes up to 8 hours.
Can children ride on the jet skis?
Yes. Children can enjoy a double ride with an accompanying adult.
When will the guided lake tours begin?
Our guided Lake Rotoiti and Lake Rotorua experiences are scheduled to begin from October 2026, subject to availability.
Is the Lakeside Lounge available for private functions?
Yes. The Lakeside Lounge is ideal for birthdays, reunions, work functions, club events, whānau gatherings and special occasions.
