Adventure Collective
Rangitikei River Rafting with River Valley Ventures - Palmerston North

Rangitikei River Rafting with River Valley Ventures

Taihapeeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

6 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should have basic fitness and be comfortable sitting and paddling for several hours.

Overview

Navigate over 30 easy rapids along New Zealand’s Rangitikei River with River Valley Ventures. This full-day rafting trip offers family-friendly thrills and a riverside picnic amid remarkable sandstone gorges.

Taihape, Manawatū-Whanganui

The Awesome Scenic Rafting Adventure

All ages • 6 hours • Safe White Water Fun For All

Rafting

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About This Adventure

Experience a thrilling full-day adventure on the Rangitikei River, featuring over 30 easy rapids and breathtaking scenery. Enjoy a delicious riverside picnic lunch as you navigate this 13 km stretch, designed for all ages. Embrace the excitement and create unforgettable memories in a safe and stunning environment.

Safe White Water Fun For All

Duration

Full Day (approximately 6 hours) 1st October to 30th April 9:30am

About

With over 30 Grade 2 (easy) rapids, amazing scenery and a riverside lunch, the 13 km section of the Rangitikei River downstream from the Lodge is perfect for all ages.

Please note: Departures are river level dependent, we will not put on if the river is outside our safe operating limits. This trip may not happen if the minimum of 2 paying adult (or 1 adult, 2 children) fares is not met.

What we Provide:

• Wetsuit • Helmet • Lifejacket • Neoprene booties • Fleece top • Paddle jacket • On cooler days, neoprene gloves and neoprene socks • A riverside picnic lunch

What you need to Bring:

• Towel • Swimsuit • Sunscreen • A thirst for adventure! • You are welcome to bring your phone or camera on this trip and we will try to provide a dry bag or box to put them in


Risk Disclosure

Adventure activities, by their very nature, entail levels of risk to both person and property. We endeavour to minimise these as much as possible but cannot guarantee your safety. We do require that you choose the activity that is most appropriate for your fitness level and expectations. The higher the river grade (1 – 5) for river trips, with 5 being the highest, the greater the risk. Choosing correctly helps ensure both the safety of yourself and others.

Adventure Tips

Watch Weather and River Levels

Trips depend on safe river levels; check conditions and be prepared for cancellations if levels are too high or low.

Bring Swimwear and a Towel

You’ll get wet, so pack swimwear and a towel to stay comfortable throughout the day.

Use Sunscreen Liberally

Exposure on the river is intense; apply waterproof sunscreen before the trip and reapply as needed.

Keep Valuables Dry

Bring a dry bag or use provided storage to protect cameras and phones from moisture during rafting.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • New Zealand fantail birds
  • freshwater eels

History

The Rangitikei River has long been a lifeline for Māori iwi, with settlements and legends tied to its winding course.

Conservation

River Valley Ventures practices low-impact tourism, emphasizing riverbank restoration and waste minimization to protect the ecosystem.

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Adventure Hotspots in Palmerston North

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Swimsuit

Essential

Keeps you comfortable while paddling and in the water.

summer specific

Waterproof Sunscreen

Essential

Protects skin during long sun exposure on the river.

summer specific

Quick-Drying Towel

Essential

For drying off after exiting the raft.

Neoprene Gloves

Provide warmth and grip in cooler conditions.

fall|winter|spring specific