New Zealand Kayaking Holidays

New Zealand is not only Lord of The Rings country, it has an unrivalled number of rivers to suit the Class 3+ /4- kayaker. From the blinding run through the Buller Gorge to heliboating on the West Coast, this trip has something for all levels of paddler. You will be accompanied by world class kayakers JJ Shephard, Mike Abbott and Koryn Gould.

What these lads don't know about Kiwi rivers isn't worth knowing. Before they paddled extensively around the world, their back yard was their adventure playground. Let them share with you their experience and passion for the river in a fun and safe environment.

Prepare to exceed all your own expectations.

01226 740444

Itinerary / Highlights

Day 1
Arrive Christchurch airport and drive to the Hurunui.

Not included: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner

Day 2
Your first day paddling is on the Hurunui, a lovely medium volume Grade 3 river.

Included: All meals

Day 3
Drive to Murchison and en route paddle the 11 metre Maruia Falls, a spectacular photo opportunity. Make camp and paddle the Doctors Creek section, finishing at our gorgeous camp.

Included: All meals

Day 4
Today is pure fun! We paddle the Buller river, featuring the sections, Earthquake, Gravity and O'Sullivans Rapids and a chance to take on Ariki Falls. Enjoy an late paddle on a balmy evening on the Matakitaki or Glenroy Rivers.

Included: All meals

Day 5
We drive down the West Coast towards Greymouth. We stop en route to see the spectacular Punakaiki Rocks and their famous blowholes. Stop and surf... Tonight we camp at the Maniniapua Pub.

Included: Breakfast and Dinner

Day 6
Today has our first helicopter fly in. We drive to our takeout where we will meet the helicopter who will fly us two at a time up to the put in on the Whataroa. This is paddling at its best.

Included: All meals

Day 7
Another flight today in to the Hokitika river. Spectacular West Coast paddling. Drive to Lake Paringa for the evening.

Included: All meals

Day 8
An early start as we drive inland to our helicopter pickup point at the confluence of the Haast and Landsborough Rivers. An amazing half hour flight. We set up camp in amongst this crystal clear river and stunning glaciers.

Included: All meals

Day 9
We have great day planned on the water today. Plenty of fun rapids including the impressive "Hells Gate" With the gear raft taking all our equipment, there is the perfect opportunity to find and paddle plenty of play spots.

Included: All meals

Day 10
A relaxed start to the day, as we drive and enjoy a fantastic paddle on the Kawarau. First paddle the "Dog Leg" section and in the afternoon a blast down the "Roaring Meg" section.

Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 11
A relaxed start to the day, as we drive and enjoy a fantastic paddle on the Kawarau. First paddle the "Dog Leg" section and in the afternoon a blast down the "Roaring Meg" section.

Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 12
A rest day to take in the great sights of Queenstown, the home of Bungy Jumping. Try paragliding or experience the world famous Shotover Jet.

Included: Breakfast

Day 13
After a drive to Geraldine we paddle the big water of the Rangitata. Overnight in Peel Forest Lodge and experience kiwi hospitality at its best.

Included: All meals

Day 14
Drive to Christchurch. Fly home.

Included: Breakfast

Other Details

Accommodation Details

What you should bring:
We find most of our clients have in their posession already what is needed for a river journey. We have broken down here the items into what you'll need on the river and in camp. An equipment list of what you will require for your adventure will be sent to you prior to your departure.

River Fashion:
* A pair of Chacos or similar sandals. Trainers are also okay.
* A pair of River shorts or swimming costume.
* Long sleeved business shirt to wear under your life jacket in hot destinations.
* A baseball cap for under the helmet to keep sun off.
* Wide brimmed sunhat.
* Sunglasses.
* Chums for fastening your sunglasses to your head.
* Nalgene or similar water bottle.
* Carabiner for fastening water bottle to your boat.
* Thermal Top for cooler destinations. Medium weight - Heavyweight Capilene or polypropylene is the best.
* Waterproof sunscreen and lip balm SPF15 minimum.

For evenings and around camp
* Lightweight long trousers.
* Lightweight Long Sleeved shirt.
* Fleece jacket.
* Ladies should bring a long skirt or sarong to cover your legs whilst in the company of locals.
* Underwear.
* Glasses or Contact lenses. Disposable lenses are ideal.
* Toiletries. Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap and shampoo.
* Forget the cosmetics and hair dryer! But we do suggest moisturizer.
* Hand wipes
* A 3-season sleeping bag.
* Travel Pillow.
* Small pack towel.
* Headlamp or head torch and spare batteries.
* Shoes or boots for wearing around camp and on hikes.
* Insect Repellent.
* Any medication you may be taking.

Optional Items:
* Your favourite book or a journal for recording your river memories.
* Sketchpad.
* Photographic or video equipment. On most expeditions we provide a waterproof pelicase for these items. We recommend a cleaning kit as sand gets everywhere. Bring a spare memory card or plenty of film. Also bring spare batteries for your camera.
* Waterproof disposable for the "action" on the raft shots.
* Swiss Army Knife or Leatherman.
* An extra bag to bring back a wooden hippo, a carpet, Thanka or anything else you may purchase on your holiday.
* An iPod or other music preferences. We have speakers.

Personal Spending:
* The only money that you need to bring is for meals in town, souvenirs, DVD, personal items and the beer kitty for the raft trip if you drink. Please remember that many of the countries we visit do offer Credit Card and ATM facilities and for a small charge you can withdraw cash either from your account or Credit Card for convenience.
* If you wish to pass on a gratuity to your guide we leave this entirely up to you.
* Basically, we advise you to keep things as light as possible, without skimping on the necessities. It is great to bring back a load of goodies for everybody back at home.

You do NOT need to bring:
* Tents, sleeping mats

Departure Dates, Options & Prices

Monday 8 February 2010 - Sunday 21 February 2010 : 14 days : GBP £1425 : Euro €2050 : USD $2495

Monday 10 January 2011 - Sunday 23 January 2011 : 14 days : GBP £1495 : Euro €1950 : USD $2495

Monday 7 February 2011 - Sunday 20 February 2011 : 14 days : GBP £1495 : Euro €1950 : USD $2495

01226 740444