Meet the Team
Craig Holt
Head Guide - NZOIA SK1
Hey I’m Holt!
I live and breathe the outdoors, whether I’m hiking, sea or whitewater kayaking, climbing or skiing, any chance to get out in the wilderness, I take it. The wild places of New Zealand are filled with weird and wonderful plants and animals and as one of those animals I am the best person to show you! Whether your new to it all or seen it all before its a beautiful place to explore.
Let’s do this!
Maria Mckenzie
Guide
Hi I'm Maria
I’m originally from the South Island of New Zealand and have always loved anything to do with the water. I worked at Kaikōura Kayaks from 2018–2020, and since then I’ve been overseas — guiding sea kayak expeditions in Canada and spending ski seasons in Scotland. I’m absolutely stoked to be back and can’t wait to share what makes this place so special with you.
Grace Wallace
Guide
Hi, I'm Grace, born and raised on the West Coast of New Zealand!
I love nothing more than a good adventure. I've been exploring and loving the outdoors all my life. My big passions are hiking, sea kayaking and skiing. When I'm not, you'll find me deep in the world of photography or running the trails of the South Island. I love being able to show New Zealanders and travelers alike the beauty of this country and how to get the most out of their experience!
Let's get stuck in!
Samantha
"The Boss"
Kia ora - I'm Sammy! The junior guide in the making.
I enjoy keeping everyone in line:) l love to kayak with the dolphins and swim in the sea. My favourite sport is rugby, my dream is to become a Black Fern.
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Matt Foy
Owner-Operations Manager - NZOIA SK1
Kaikōura is one of the most unique places on earth and I am proud to call it my home!
I absolutely love introducing people to wildlife under towering mountains along our breath-taking coastline from a sea kayak.
Kim Foy
Owner & Administrator
Kia ora
Kaikōura is pure magic — where rugged landscapes meet the wild ocean. With its breathtaking scenery, abundant marine life, and warm local community, it’s a place that captures the hearts of all who visit. From the majestic Seaward Kaikōura Range to the deep ocean trenches just offshore, our coastal haven offers ever-changing natural beauty that inspires awe in every season
What our customers have to say
Truly amazing experience! We had a lot of luck with the weather and animal encounters, we saw a small whale and loads of seals. Staff were super friendly and it was much fun. Would definitely recommend
Serafin K, Europe
I’d like to say thanks for a great day today. The guides were excellent setting up the day and introducing everyone. They’re very organized. The equipment was of a great standard and the day was brilliant. The weather was good and we saw well over 100 dolphins, and even seals and birds local to the area. All in all we had a great...
Emma H, Canada
Marine mammal megamix Spent a truly incredible morning around the Kaikōura Peninsula with Matt and Emma, two fantastic local guides. The whole operation was very professional, with high quality kayaks, equipment and a detailed safety briefing. Spent a good amount of time observing the seals, tried our hand at some kayak surfing in the big...
Tom, Neverlands
We loved our trip with Kaikoura kayaks. We took our whole family and the kids aged 9,12 and 14 really enjoyed paddling on the water and getting up close to the seals on the rocks. The guides were really informative and friendly. The safety briefing meant us parents felt comfortable with our kids out on the water. We would highly recommend!
Erin, Australia
We had a great time kayaking with this outfit. The guides were professional and trained us well before we got into the water. We saw loads of fur seals as well as albatross. It was a wonderful experience that I highly recommend.
Marcella R, USA
We had an amazing time with our guide Loz, gave us some really cold facts about all the wildlife around! He had a wealth of knowledge and even managed to bring us to some Dusky dolphins!!
Emma R, Ireland
"To Matt and the Kaikōura Kayaks team, Thank you very much for a fantastic day of kayaking. Both our trips were very well organised by your friendly team. We found your lessons enjoyable, helping us all to be confident, expert paddlers! We were so lucky to have a beautiful sunny day, and we enjoyed fantastic scenery and wildlife out...
Kowhai Class, Hurunui College NZ
The experience of a lifetime! Having intuitive and professional guides who allowed us the opportunity to experience an outstanding and very memorable day. They knew just where the incredible action was happening. We saw an amazing array of dolphins playing right near us and also saw blue penguins and seals. We travelled for two weeks around...
Paula Kirby, Wellinton NZ
We were soooo lucky - perfect sunshine, calm water and 300 dolphins! But it wasn't just luck: Kaikoura Kayaks were also superbly organised, friendly, safe, encouraging and a LOT of fun. Thank you!
Lucy M, UK