Rafting Trips

Firstly, to give you an understanding of river grading, rivers range from Grade 1 = flat water to Grade 6 = too extreme to raft, waterfalls and massive, confused water.

Both options include optional return transport from Christchurch or Geraldine.

“It was an amazing experience and not only the rafting, the surfing and jumps made it incredible. Awesome.” Comment from survey

Rafting the spectacular Rangitata Gorge offers the most breathtaking scenery paired with the thrill and excitement of some of the most exciting rapids commercially rafted in New Zealand.

“It’s not only to do the activity, it’s to discover  wild landscapes around the river during the trip.” Comment from survey.

Join us on a day trip from Christchurch or drive yourself (located 30 mins from the Christchurch – Queenstown highway, closest town Geraldine).

“It is not just a regular guided activity. You bond with the people on your rafts and those around you and it becomes this amazing and truly unique experience.” Comment from survey

Perfectly made for rafting, this rafting trip begins on a beautiful calm stretch of water allowing time for you to practise safety and paddling instructions under the supervision of your professional guide. As you raft through the narrow gorge you will feel your confidence and excitement grow as the rapids build in a natural progression. On reaching the adrenalin pumping Grade 5 rapids you will be well prepared and looking forward to conquering them. But if you prefer can always walk around with our photographer and then re-join the rafts.

“An absolute Must – good even for first timers.” Comment from survey

With 2.5 hours on the river, there is time for optional river fun; surfing the rafts in smaller rapids, swimming in turquoise waters and an optional leap from a ‘jump rock’.

“Exhilarating, thrilling, daring exciting, laughter, stepping out of comfort zone.”

Comment from survey.

Our Rangitata Rafts lodge is beautifully located at the base of the Southern Alps. Lunch is served on arrival at our lodge, and hot showers and BBQ complete the fantastic day. No fixed travel plans? Stay on for a night at our lodge accommodation.

No previous experience necessary; minimum age 15 yrs. A reasonable standard of fitness is required. Read more about the Spectacular Rangitata Gorge trip

The fun-filled beautiful Lower Rangitata offers the perfect introduction to rafting whilst having fun, learning the local history and enjoying the stunning scenery.

This trip can be as gentle or as crazy-fun as you like, just let your guide know which you prefer. Take on the challenge of guiding the raft along the river current while getting your fellow rafters to work as a team – laughter will be heard from afar as you bounce along.

Or have a turn in one of the inflatable kayaks (rubber duckies). These kayaks make the Grade 2 rapids feel massive as the refreshing water splashes in your face.

Great for families, groups with a wide spectrum of abilities and those who prefer a gentle, fun float trip. Minimum age 5 yrs (conditions may apply). No previous experience necessary. Read more about The Fun and Gentle Lower Rangitata trip