Directions

A pick-up service and transport from Christchurch to our river base is provided. Pick ups from inner city accommodation providers begin at approximately 8:15 am (April and early May 7:45 am). It is a two-hour bus journey to our lodge, taking in some of the South Island’s most spectacular scenery along the way. If you wish, remember to bring a book for the journey.

For those making their own way, our rafting base is located 13 km further on from the village of Peel Forest, on the Rangitata Gorge road. It is a sealed road all the way to our lodge.

Allow 2 hours travelling time
Travel south on SH1. Travel through the town of Ashburton. Approximately 10 minutes from Ashburton is a small settlement called Hinds. At the Hinds Tavern, turn right, this is signposted to Peel Forest. Take the 3rd left, also signposted Peel Forest or Arundel. Travel to the end of the 22 km straight road. At the ‘T’ junction, turn left and you will go over the Rangitata Bridge. Take the 1st right over the bridge and travel through the small sawmill settlement of Arundel. At the top of the hill, turn right and follow the signposts to Peel Forest. The Peel Forest Store is your last opportunity to buy any beer or wine to have at the end of the day, with the BBQ, if you wish. Travel through Peel Forest and continue on the same road for 13 km and you will see our driveway off to the right. Welcome to Rangitata Rafts.

Make your way to Geraldine, only 30 minutes from our rafting base
From Geraldine head north on the Inland Scenic Route, following the signs to Peel Forest. Approximately 15 km north of Geraldine, turn left off the Inland Scenic Route to Peel Forest. The Peel Forest Store is your last opportunity to buy any beer or wine to enjoy at the end of the day, with the BBQ, if you wish. Travel through Peel Forest and continue on the same road for 13 km and you will see our driveway off to the right. Welcome to Rangitata Rafts.

We are located off the main route from Christchurch to Queenstown, so stop in for a fantastic rafting trip on your way through. Two of the South Island’s most popular spots are just a short distance (Christchurch 2 hours, Queenstown 4 hours).