Terms and Conditions

Welcome to watsupwaiheke.co.nz!

Last updated: 07/10/2025

1) What we hire & how to use it

We hire stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), single & double kayaks, surfboards, bodyboards, mask & snorkel sets, small shade/cabanas with chairs & towels, swimwear (hire) and beach accessories.

Use items only for their intended recreational purpose, follow staff instructions, and operate safely and responsibly at all times.

Equipment must stay on Waiheke Island and be used in inshore areas only (sheltered bays/coastal waters; no open-water crossings or channels). Ask our team about suitable areas on the day.

Treat the gear with care and report any damage or issues immediately.

2) Pick-up, returns & late fees

Pick-up/return is from our Onetangi HQ unless we’ve agreed a drop-off/pick-up by email (see §6).

Return by the agreed finish time. We allow a 15-minute grace; after that the next full hour is charged at the public rate.

If you return after closing (10:00–17:00) or need help outside normal hours, a call-out fee applies (from NZ$30 minimum) plus any extra hire time.

3) Bonds, ID & payment

Some bookings may require a NZ$200 bond (card pre-authorisation) at pick-up. We will email you before your booking if a bond is required.

A valid photo ID may be requested for any hire.

You are liable for loss, theft, excessive wear or damage (including cleaning beyond normal use). We may deduct from the bond or charge your card up to replacement cost.

4) Safety & supervision

For SUPs and kayaks, lifejackets are provided and must be worn.

Under-15s must be directly supervised by a responsible adult on the water and on the beach.

Check wind, swell and visibility; stay clear of boat lanes; remain within your ability and close to shore.

For shade/cabanas/umbrellas, lower if winds increase (~20 km/h+), and secure as instructed.

5) Cancellations, reschedules & weather

Pre-booked hires:

48h+ before start → full refund.

24–47h → 50% refund.

<24h, no-shows, change of mind or early returns once hire begins → no refund.

Illness: we may offer a reschedule at our discretion.

Walk-ins: once hired, no refunds; early return no credit.

Unsafe conditions (e.g., strong wind, heavy rain, thunder, dangerous swell): we may cancel, suspend or shorten hires at any time. If we initiate the cancellation, a pro-rated refund or reschedule is provided. WATSUP’s safety call is final.

6) Delivery / drop-off (by prior arrangement)

Standard hires are pick-up/return at Onetangi HQ.

Delivery/drop-off may be available by prior arrangement via email and is not guaranteed. If accepted, a fee will be quoted in advance and may depend on access, distance and timing.

7) Area, usage & group responsibility

Use gear inshore only; no channel or island crossings. Do not take equipment off Waiheke.

Hired items are for your party only; no sub-hire or lending.

For group bookings, the organiser confirms all participants accept these terms and ensures safe conduct.

8) E-bikes (via eRide)

We rent e-bikes on behalf of eRide (our local partner). eRide’s terms & conditions apply to e-bike hires, including bond/ID, safety and any damage or loss. Helmets must be worn and NZ road rules followed.

Where WATSUP assists as an agent, liability for e-bike hire rests with eRide.

9) Loss, damage & cleaning (examples)

Charges may apply for: punctures, fin/box damage, broken/leaking paddles, torn fabric/poles, missing leashes/PFDs, excessive sand/sunscreen staining, and water damage to personal devices.

Waterproof phone cases reduce risk but do not guarantee device safety—you remain responsible.

10) Local bylaws & fires

Be aware of local alcohol bylaws on beaches.

No open fires on the beach. Use only enclosed gas BBQs where permitted by Council.

11) Liability & risk disclosure

You acknowledge that water sports and beach activities carry inherent risks. By hiring, you assume these risks and release WATSUP Waiheke, its owners and staff from liability for injury, loss or damage arising from your hire and use of equipment to the fullest extent permitted by law.

12) Hours & season

Season: 1 November – 30 April

Open hours: 10:00 – 17:00 (flexible by arrangement; contact us)

13) Privacy

We handle personal information as described in our Privacy Policy. By using our services, you consent to that collection and use.

14) Website terms & disclaimer

Content on this site is for general guidance only; we exclude all warranties to the fullest extent permitted by law. Use of the site and services is at your own risk.

User-generated content is the responsibility of the poster.

Trademarks, images and designs remain the property of WATSUP Waiheke or its licensors and may not be used without permission.

15) Contact

WATSUP Waiheke — Onetangi HQ

Phone: 0800 92 8787

Email: hello@watsupwaiheke.co.nz

Season hours: 10:00–17:00 (Nov–Apr)