FAQ

Got a question? Just ask!

Below are the most common questions we are asked, but if there’s anything else not covered here, just get in touch!

T  +64 4 562 7760
E  info@wildfinder.co.nz

FAQs - Wildfinder Pencarrow

  • It’s approximately 7km out to the bottom Pencarrow Lighthouse, which takes about 45 minutes on a regular mountain bike, and about 20 minutes on an eBike. If cycling into a headwind though, add a bit more time!

  • There is a steep path on the left before you get to Pencarrow Head, though this is only advisable for walkers. We recommend taking the much more accessible path just after Pencarrow Head, which goes around Lake Kohangapiripiri before heading up the back of the hill to the top lighthouse. Be warned though, there are steep areas near the top, so you may have to get off and push!

  • The main coast trail is completely flat all the way from Wildfinder Pencarrow to the SS Paiaka Wreck (past that is private land). Should you wish to go up to the top Pencarrow Lighthouse or round the lakes you will need to contend with a few hills!

  • The trail goes as far as the SS Paiaka Wreck, after that it’s private land. If you fancy going further afield to the dramatic coastlines of The Wild Coast and the Wairarapa, or to the Remutaka Rail Trail or Hutt River Trail, check out our site for details on day trips and multi-day tours to these areas.

  • All our eBikes use extra large batteries, perfect for a full day out on the trails.

  • To hire a bike from us you’ll need to bring a form of ID (driving license, passport, etc), plus a form of payment (we accept cash, eftpos & credit card). We also have a range of snacks and drinks available for purchase. We’ll provide you with all the bike-specific gear you’ll need, but you may also wish to bring a camera (for those amazing views!) and extra food and water.

  • We’d recommend the following:

    - Closed shoes - running shoes or sneakers, for example

    - Shorts or tight-fitting pants (so they won't get caught in moving bike parts)

    - Tshirt or similar for when you're riding

    - Fleece and / or light jacket for when you're resting, & waterproofs incase the weather is unsettled!

    - Sunglasses and sunscreen

  • We are located at the southern-most end of Muritai Road, in Eastbourne. If you're driving, just stay on the main road around the bays and through Eastbourne, and keep going until you hit a large car park at the end of the road. We're the little shed on your left hand side. If taking the bus, just jump off at the last stop, then walk about 150m to get to the car park. Easy!

  • It can get windy out on the coast (this is Wellington, after all!) If in doubt, we’d recommend taking an eBike, which are great against the winds. For weather forecasts and updates see www.metservice.com

  • We’re open every day (aside from Christmas Day) from 10am. We highly recommend booking online in advance though, as we can get busy, especially during the holidays and weekends.

FAQs - Wildfinder Days Bay

  • Not a problem! One of our friendly instructors will go through with you on the beach exactly what you need to do, how to control your kayak/paddleboard, the basics of paddling and turning, all before you even get your feet wet! Then when you’re ready to head out, we’ll have someone on the beach at all times keeping an eye on everyone.

  • Yes! We have lifejackets to fit XXS to XXL, all included as standard in our hire rates. One of our friendly staff will choose the right sized lifejacket for you, help you fit it, and check all the straps before you get in the water.

  • Yes! We have a small range of wetsuits for kids and smaller adults which are available to hire from $10, so you can keep toasty warm out on the water whatever the weather!

  • Please bring a form of ID with you (driving license / passport / student ID, etc), plus a form of payment (cash or eftpos). Other than that, we recommend bringing as little stuff as possible with you - just a towel and a change of clothes. You can leave your stuff with us while you paddle, or we can hire out dry-bags, but these are both at your own risk!

  • You're likely to get a bit wet while you're paddling - whether it's a few drips off the paddle, or a lot of drips from your mates splashing you. We recommend swimming togs or shorts, a tshirt, and a sunhat or sunglasses. Shoes are not recommended - they'll just get wet!

  • There is free parking in Days Bay along the front, and at the Pavilion car park. However, it does get busy, especially on a fine day, so make sure you leave plenty of time before your booking! Alternatively, take a bus or the East by West Ferry from Wellington CBD.

  • We have safety precautions for both our kayaks and paddleboards, so if the wind is over our safety limit we won’t hire out. For weather forecasts and updates - see www.metservice.com