Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
graded from I to VI, with VI meaning 'unraftable'. On the rougher stretches there's usually
a minimum age requirement of 12 or 13 years.
Popular South Island rafting rivers include the Shotover Canyon and Kawarau River
(Queenstown), Rangitata River (Christchurch), Buller River (Murchison/Westport), Kara-
mea River (Westport) and the Arnold and Waiho Rivers on the West Coast. On the North Is-
land try the Rangitaiki, Wairoa, Motu, Mokau, Mohaka, Tongariro and Rangitikei Rivers.
There are also the Kaituna Cascades near Rotorua, the highlight of which is the 7m drop at
Okere Falls.
Canoeing is so popular on the North Island's Whanganui River that it's been designated
one of NZ's 'Great Walks'! You can also dip your paddle into northern lakes such as Lake
Taupo and Lake Rotorua, as well as freshwater lakes on the South Island. Many backpacker
hostels close to canoe-friendly waters have Canadian canoes and kayaks for hire (or free
loan), and loads of commercial operators run guided trips. The New Zealand Rafting Asso-
ciation (
www.nz-rafting.co.nz
) is a good place to start.
Skier on Mt Hutt, near Methven (
Click here
)
BO TORNVIG / GETTY IMAGES ©
