Immerse yourself in a dynamic overnight adventure with Southern White Water on the Waimakariri River. From thrilling jet boat rides to gentle rafting and riverside camping, this trip showcases Canterbury’s rugged natural beauty and rich history.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days / 1 night
Fitness Level
Basic fitness needed for rafting, hiking short sections, and camping activities
Wildlife
History
The Staircase Viaduct nearby is a notable 1906 railway structure vital for linking Christchurch with the West Coast.
Conservation
Southern White Water emphasizes minimal impact by using existing campsites and encouraging Leave No Trace principles to protect the Waimakariri’s fragile ecosystem.
Southern White Water
Immerse yourself in a dynamic overnight adventure with Southern White Water on the Waimakariri River. From thrilling jet boat rides to gentle rafting and riverside camping, this trip showcases Canterbury’s rugged natural beauty and rich history.
Southern White Water is a Canterbury-based rafting operator located in Kaiapoi that runs guided river trips throughout the Waimakariri, Hurunui and Upper Grey catchments. The company offers a range of experiences from short, family-oriented floats and jet-boat plus raft combos to full multi-day rafting expeditions through remote bush-clad rivers.
Trips include gentle grade 1–2 runs suited to families and first-time rafters, plus grade 2–3 white-water journeys for more experienced paddlers. Day trips, overnight rafting and three-day expeditions are staffed by trained guides who prepare meals on multi-day adventures, lead safety briefings, and manage logistics such as river launches and riverside camping. Many trips incorporate scenic highlights — glacial mountain views, river gorges, historic huts and waterfalls — and opportunities to relax by the campfire, fish, and explore surrounding bush.
Operating from Kaiapoi in Canterbury provides easy access to the Waimakariri Gorge and nearby river systems. Southern White Water’s itineraries emphasize safety, family suitability where specified, and authentic river experiences. The business is positioned to deliver both adrenaline-driven white-water days and relaxed, nature-focused overnight trips for small groups and families seeking guided river adventures in New Zealand.
Base Location
Kaiapoi, Canterbury
Central access to Waimakariri & Hurunui
Tours Offered
7 Trips
Day, overnight and multi‑day options
Family Friendly
Multiple Trips
Several tours suited to families
Trip Lengths
1.5 hr — 3 days
Options from short floats to multi‑day
Reserve a family float, jet-boat combo, day white-water run or multi-day expedition — guided departures from Kaiapoi, Canterbury.
Bring quick-drying clothes
Expect to get wet during rafting and jet boating, so wear synthetic fabrics that dry fast.
Prepare for changing weather
Mountain weather can shift rapidly; pack waterproof gear and warm layers for comfort.
Arrive on time at base
Check-in is at 10:00am sharp at Southern White Water HQ in Kaiapoi to ensure smooth transport to Springfield.
Limit valuables on the river
Waterproof containers or leaving valuables behind reduces risk of loss during whitewater activities.
Waterproof jacket
Protects from rain and river spray during rafting and jet boating.
all
Quick-dry clothing
Keeps you comfortable when wet and speeds drying after water activities.
all
Warm layers
Necessary for chilly mornings and nights around the campfire.
fall|spring|winter
Sturdy water shoes
Provides grip and foot protection while rafting and walking rocky riverbanks.
all