Grade 5 White Water Rafting with River Valley Ventures NZ
Difficulty
expert
Duration
3–4 hours (half-day)
Fitness Level
Participants should have average fitness levels able to tolerate prolonged paddling, swimming if needed, and quick reaction times.
Overview
Take on New Zealand’s Rangitikei River with River Valley Ventures’ Grade 5 white water rafting. Conquer ten intense rapids in a half-day run packed with natural beauty and expert thrills.
Grade 5 White Water Rafting New Zealand
Ages 13 and up • Half Day • Best grade 5 white water in NZ!
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About This Adventure
Experience the thrill of a world-class half-day white water rafting adventure on New Zealand's Rangitikei River. Navigate through 10 major rapids and numerous smaller ones over an exhilarating 11 km stretch. Perfect for adventure seekers, this trip promises unforgettable excitement and stunning scenery in every splash!
The Best Half Day, Grade 5, White Water Rafting in New Zealand
Duration
Half Day
Summer Season: Trips depart twice daily from 1st October to 30th April at 8.15am and 12.30pm
Winter Season: Trips depart once per day from 1st May to 30th September at 8.30am
About
This is a world class, half-day white water rafting trip on the Rangitikei River. With 10 major rapids on this 11 km run, plus numerous smaller rapids, there is plenty to get excited about.
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 4 paying fares is not met.
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.
View Full River Valley Risk Disclosure.pdf
Adventure Tips
Arrive early for orientation
Plan to arrive at River Valley Lodge at least 30 minutes before departure to get fitted for gear and receive your safety briefing.
Wear appropriate swimwear
Under your wetsuit, choose comfortable swimwear suitable for immersion in cold water across river rapids.
Leave valuables behind
Waterproof cases are not provided; avoid bringing loose electronics or valuables that could be lost in rapids.
Fitness matters
A reasonable level of physical fitness helps you enjoy the trip and respond quickly to paddle commands on Grade 5 rapids.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Blue duck (Whio), a rare river-dwelling bird endemic to New Zealand.
- Freshwater eels (Tuna) commonly seen in calmer river sections.
History
The Rangitikei River area holds cultural significance for Māori iwi and has been a travel and food gathering route for centuries.
Conservation
River Valley Ventures practices sustainable adventure tourism by strictly adhering to safety limits and minimizing environmental impact along this pristine river corridor.
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Adventure Hotspots in Palmerston North
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Wetsuit
Keeps you insulated in cold river water, essential for comfort and safety.
all specific
Helmet
Protects your head during fast rapids and rocky river sections.
all specific
Paddle Jacket
Provides wind resistance and an extra waterproof layer for colder months.
fall|winter|spring specific
Neoprene Booties
Protect your feet from cold water and rocky terrain during river entry and exit.
all specific