Adventure Collective
WhiteWater Kayaking & Canyoning with Wellington WhiteWater Adventures - Wellington

WhiteWater Kayaking & Canyoning with Wellington WhiteWater Adventures

Upper Huttmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

8 hours

Fitness Level

Average fitness required; participants should be comfortable with light to moderate physical activity.

Overview

Experience the thrill of canyoning and kayaking in Little Akatarawa Canyon with Wellington WhiteWater Adventures. This full-day trip combines adrenaline-pumping zip lines and waterfall descents with peaceful river paddling amid stunning scenery.

Water Activities
Upper Hutt, Wellington

Ropes and Rivers Tour

Ages 8+ • 8 Hours

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About This Adventure

Embark on an exhilarating Ropes and Rivers tour, combining canyoning and kayaking in the stunning Little Akatarawa Canyon. Experience thrilling zip lines, waterfall descents, and serene paddling on the river, all while surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Enjoy a catered lunch and capture unforgettable moments with high-quality photos throughout this full-day adventure.

Ropes and rivers tour, an adventure experience with two great activities in one exciting day.

The adventure begins with a thorough safety briefing including a demonstration on how to rappel /abseil a rope followed by a 20 minute walk along an old logging track into the Akatarawa forest where the first feature of the Little Akatarawa Canyon tour begins. An exciting zipline into the Little Akatarawa canyon followed by four waterfall descents repelling/abseiling by rope into the heart of the canyon, we lower you through the first waterfall to get you comfortable in the environment then if you are confident and want to do an independent abseil our experienced team of guides are there for support to coach you through the activity making sure you are safe and having fun. Wading through a shallow creek and jumping from height into fresh pristine water (optional) is so much fun and the scenery is truly an experience to remember, the Little Akatarawa Canyon has got to be the greatest little hidden gem in the Wellington region being only a 40 minute drive from the CBD we are so lucky to have such a cool adventure on the doorstep of the capital city, Wellington.

The adventure continues once we exit the canyon to then jump onto the river in our 2 person inflatable kayaks / Duckies to enjoy a relaxing paddle down our local awa/river stopping at the jump spot for some mean bombs and a lovely catered lunch riverside.

What's included:

  • Little Akatarawa Canyoning tour (Duration 3-4 hours)
  • Te awa Kairangi river tour (Duration 1.5 - 2 hours)
  • Catered lunch
  • high quality photos of the day
  • All gear provides for the canyon and river (All you need is swimwear, a towel, warm change of clothes, a pair of old running shoes and a sense of adventure)

Duration

8 Hours

Adventure Tips

Wear moisture-wicking gear

Bring quick-drying clothing and sturdy footwear suitable for water activities.

Start early in the day

Arriving early ensures optimal light for photography and avoids crowds.

Stay hydrated and energized

Pack snacks and water to keep your energy levels high throughout the adventure.

Follow safety instructions carefully

Listen to guides and adhere to safety protocols for a secure experience.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Native tui
  • Kererū (New Zealand pigeon)

History

The Little Akatarawa Canyon has been a favorite local recreation spot for decades, with early explorers discovering its unique geological formations in the mid-20th century.

Conservation

The tour supports local conservation efforts by promoting eco-friendly practices and minimizing environmental impact during activities.

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Adventure Hotspots in Wellington

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Wetsuit

Essential

Keeps you warm and protected during water activities.

winter|summer specific

Waterproof camera or phone case

Essential

Allows capturing photos without damaging your device.

Quick-drying towel

Essential

Comfortable for post-activity refreshment and changing.

spring|summer|fall|winter specific

Secure footwear (water shoes or sandals)

Essential

Provides grip and protection on wet rocks and surfaces.