The intrepid kayaker set out on Monday from St Kilda Beach in Dunedin on a planned six-week journey around the South Island in his modified surf canoe called Yahwaka, only to be rescued six hours later after the boat started taking on water near Brighton.
He said the hatch on the front cockpit sprang a leak, and it was soon clear he would not make it to shore without help.
But the 31-year-old acupuncturist was cheerful yesterday as he planned repairs to the boat and his return to the sea in a few days' time.
A former outdoor adventure instructor, kayak guide and blue water sailor - he has sailed from New Zealand to Fiji and back - Mr Daniels spent six months modifying the surf canoe in his back yard so it could be paddled standing up, rowed or used as a windsurfer.
He had trialled it - without any hatch issues - and had all the necessary safety gear, taking advice from Dunedin marine stalwart Martin Balch, who also taught him to use the VHF radio he used to call for assistance on Monday.
Mr Daniels' plan is to seal the hatch permanently and launch again from Brighton later this week, to begin, once again, his plan of spending "40 days and 40 nights in the wilderness", because "it makes me feel alive".
The plan was to travel an average of 70km a day. He would be met to replenish supplies about once a week by a ground support crew, with which he was in more regular contact.
All going well with this journey, his intention was to take a group of teenagers on a circumnavigation of Stewart Island next summer.
Dunedin marine search and rescue adviser Rowan Leck said he was happy Mr Daniels was experienced and prepared for his voyage.
"I think, perhaps, this was just unfortunate."
