SYDNEY, Australia — Two young adventurers have defied the odds after battling high seas and infamously strong currents to become the first duo to kayak 2,050 miles across the Tasman Sea to New Zealand from Australia.

James Castrission 25, and Justin Jones, 24, paddled into history when they beached their fiberglass kayak on New Zealand’s North Island after a grueling 62 days crossing “the ditch.”

Their epic journey took them 20 days longer than expected because of the currents and winds that pushed them around in giant circles in the middle of the ocean. They had to ration their supplies to one meal a day during the latter stages of the ordeal, believed to be the first time a two-man kayak has made the crossing.

The Australian pair left Forster, 180 miles north of Sydney, on November 13, and had hoped to reach New Zealand by Christmas.

But the high seas, a severe lack of sleep, and extreme exhaustion took their toll. They were “shagged and buggered” after being “bounced around like we’re in a washing machine” by 30ft swells, Mr. Jones acknowledged last week.

They had spent so long in a sitting position that it was feared they would be unable to walk when they reached a beach near the town of New Plymouth, on New Zealand’s North Island.

But they walked on to dry land, supporting each other and appearing overwhelmed by the huge crowd of family, friends, and well-wishers. A band played “Waltzing Matilda” and Maoris performed a haka, or traditional dance.

“It is phenomenal. We had an incredible time,” Mr. Castrission said. “It has really required every single bit of motivation, brain power, and willpower to make it happen.”

He said they first sighted land 70 miles from the coast, when they spotted the massive volcanic cone of Mount Taranaki. He said it was the most beautiful sight he had ever seen. Last year, an Australian, Andrew McCauley, disappeared during a solo attempt.