Waimarino was first established in 1975 by the current owners parents. With a vision to teach kayaking to people of all ages. With this vision in mind, a section along the Wairoa River’s edge was purchased. Barry and Barbara started operating with 6 kayaks in a small wooden shed. They soon became a successful education facility.

In 2003 Blair and, his wife Charlotte Anderson purchased the business in 2003 and became Waimarino Ltd. Barry & Barbara’s son, Blair developed parts of Waimarino beyond the original vision, opening up new ventures, expanding the grounds; and introduced exciting ways to learn and have fun with the sport of kayaking.

Waimarino Kayak Tours now operate in Tauranga and Rotorua, on The Wairoa River, Lake McLaren and Lake Rotoiti. With the main operations still based in its original location alongside the Wairoa River.

In 2011, The Waimarino Education Trust was created. The Trust provides After School Club, Holiday and Educational Programmes to New Zealand and International School Students. Most programmes based within the Waimarino Adventure Park.

The Waimarino Group has expanded rapidly and now incorporates The Waimarino Adventure Park, Waimarino Kayak Tours and Waimarino Education Trust.