New Zealand Tour
- 1.5 – 2 hours of fun rafting, swimming
- Grade 2, gentle rapids in the Lower Rangitata River
- Includes a delicious meal at our rustic lodge
- Transport from Christchurch
- All safety and comfort equipment (life jacket, polypro, wetsuit, splash jacket, helmet, booties if size available),
Departures
| Depart | 8:15am |
| Frequency | Daily, end of September to beginning of May |
| Total Duration | 10.5 Hours |
| Leaves | Visitor Information Centre, Cathedral Square at 8:15 am, or pick up by prior arrangement |
Booking Confirmation:
- Confirmation E-Voucher will be sent within 24 hours of booking, subject to availability
- E-Voucher contains operator details, times and local contact telephone numbers
- This tour must be booked at least 72 hours in advance of travel


Great for families, groups with a wide spectrum of age and abilities, and those who prefer a gentler rafting experience.
Travel in the comfort of our bus/van from Christchurch for the 2-hour scenic journey to our lodge.
Enjoy a fun rafting experience on the beautiful Lower River section.
This trip can be as gentle or as crazy-fun as you like, just let your guide know which you prefer.
These easy rapids allow you to understand the skill of guiding a raft by taking a turn at the helm.
Accept the challenge of navigating the raft through the rapids and getting your crew to work as a team. The sounds of laughter will be heard from afar as you bounce along under the watchful eye of your guide.
Experience the fun in one of our ‘rubber duckies’ (inflatable kayaks). These kayaks make the Grade 2 rapids feel huge as the refreshing crystal-clear water splashes in your face while you ride the waves.
Soak up the magnificent views as you float along the blue waters. Learn about the local history and the first settlers, the Acland family, whose descendants still farm Mt Peel Station.
After 1.5 – 2 hours of river fun, return to our lodge to enjoy hot, refreshing showers.
Trips operate on demand, which means that we can often cater to your time schedule. Enjoy a meal at our lodge before or after the rafting, depending on the time of day.
All you need to bring is your swimsuit, towel, a sense of adventure and a big smile.
What do I need to bring? Just bring along your swimsuit and towel. If you would like to have a beer or wine AFTER the rafting, with the BBQ, please bring this along as we do not sell it.
How many people are in the raft? There are up to 7 people plus the guide in the raft.
Do you raft in the winter? No. We do not raft during the winter as it is simply too cold to be enjoyable and all our guides head to warmer rivers around the world to gain further experience. Our season begins at the end of September and runs through until early May.
Do I need to have rafted before? No. The Rangitata Gorge is excellent as it starts out on a flat stretch of water and then gradually builds in excitement. There is even the option to walk around the Grade 5 rapids if preferred. This means that people who really prefer not to raft the Grade 5 can still enjoy the rest of the river trip, the scenery and get to watch the action. Or come and raft our gentle and fun Lower River option. Some of our group would prefer something a little more sedate. There is a Lower River option. This is a gentle, fun float trip.
Can I come along with my group even if I don’t wish to raft? Yes. Non-rafters are welcome to come along. They can also join in with the meals and relax at the rafting lodge while the others are out rafting.
Do you cater for vegetarians? Yes.
- Children (5 yrs – 14 yrs inclusive)
- Includes a delicious meal at our rustic lodge, all safety and comfort equipment (life jacket, polypro, wetsuit, splash jacket, helmet, booties if size available), 1.5 – 2 hours of fun rafting, swimming







[...] Christchurch – Grade 2 Gentle Rapids Rafting – New Zealand Travel 1.5 – 2 hours of fun rafting, swimming; Grade 2, gentle rapids in the Lower Rangitata River …. I have visited New Zealand and it is a beautiful country and your photos show it off well. … [...]