Rangitikei Rafting & E-Bike Adventure with River Valley Ventures
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate fitness to handle continuous rafting and a 27KM e-bike ride with pedal assist.
Overview
Tackle over 30 rapids on the Rangitikei River followed by a scenic 27KM e-bike ride with River Valley Ventures. Discover why this thrilling combo is a standout adventure near Taihape.
Paddle & Peddle
Age 10+ • Rafting & E-Bike Combo • A Full Day Adventure
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Experience an exhilarating full-day adventure with the Rafting & E-Bike Combo! Navigate over 30 Grade 2 rapids on the stunning Rangitikei River, followed by a scenic 27KM e-bike ride back to River Valley Lodge. Enjoy breathtaking views, a picnic lunch, and the thrill of outdoor exploration.
Rafting & E-Bike Combo
Duration
Full Day (approximately 6 hours) Season: 1st October to 30th April Start Time: 9:30am
About
Raft the beautiful downstream section of the Rangitikei River, with over 30 Grade 2 (easy) rapids, amazing scenery and a picnic lunch.
After your rafting trip, enjoy an e-bike ride back to River Valley Lodge. Over 27KM you will ride over the Mokai Canyon bridge, past the site of the old Gravity Canyon bungy jump and flying fox.
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 • E-bike hire (including helmet, high vis, bike bag and map) • A 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
Stay Hydrated Throughout the Day
Bring a water bottle and refill when possible to stay energized, especially during the e-bike segment.
Wear Layered Clothing
Mornings can be cool on the river, but expect warmer temperatures during the bike ride; layers help you adjust.
Secure Your Belongings
Use provided dry bags for phones or cameras during rafting to protect them from water exposure.
Check River Conditions Before Booking
Trips depend on safe river levels; River Valley Ventures will cancel if conditions are unsafe.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Native New Zealand fantails flitting through the forest
- Occasional sightings of long-tailed bats at dusk
History
The Rangitikei River area holds deep significance for local Māori iwi and was the site of early European exploration in the 19th century.
Conservation
River Valley Ventures upholds sustainable practices by minimizing waste and educating visitors about protecting the fragile river ecosystem.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Palmerston North
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Quick-dry swimsuit
Dries quickly after rafting and is comfortable under wetsuits.
summer specific
Waterproof dry bag
To protect electronics and valuables during the river portion.
Sunscreen
Crucial protection for long exposure on the river and bike trails.
summer specific
Layered clothing
Flexible warmth options between cool river mornings and warmer biking afternoons.
fall|spring specific