Rangitata Rafts

Address: Peel Forest     RD 20     South Canterbury Telephone: 0800 251 251 Hours: See weblink for full details          Day Trips from Christchurch or Self Drive Options

Tussock, Alex and their professional team at Rangitata Rafts welcome you to join them for a fantastic New Zealand rafting experience. Beautifully located in the wild landscape of the Southern Alps and yet only a day trip from Christchurch, off the main highway to Queenstown/Wanaka.

Few other rivers can offer you New Zealand’s most amazing scenery paired with the thrill and excitement of some of the most exciting New Zealand white water rafting action, including Grade 5 rapids.

Whitewater Rafting The Spectacular Rangitata Gorge – Grade 1 – 5

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

Naturally and perfectly made forwhite water rafting, the Rangitata Gorge trip begins on a beautiful calm stretch of water surrounded by magnificent scenery, allowing time for you to practise safety and paddling instructions under the supervision of your professional guide.

As you travel through the narrow gorge, the rapids build in a natural progression. By the time you reach the ultimate Grade 5 rapids you will be well prepared and looking forward to conquering them, but you can always walk around with our photographer if you prefer. With only one scheduled rafting trip per day and 2.5 hours on the river, there is time for optional river fun; take a leap of faith from one of the 'jump rocks', surf in the smaller rapids or try swimming in the clear blue waters in the calmer sections.

Our beautifully located Rangitata Rafts lodge is your base for the day. 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 or in your campervan.

The Fun Lower Rangitata River

Great for families, groups with a wide spectrum of age and abilities, and those who prefer a gentler rafting experience.

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.