Packraft Wanaka

Begin with pickup and dropoff, plus a run through trip details and risk disclosure, before heading by shuttle into the mountains. The drive follows the Matukituki Valley beneath high peaks, glaciers and waterfalls, with a stop for a short walk to Wishbone Falls. One of the operator’s shuttle support dogs may join the drive, and alternative arrangements can be made if needed.

After a short break, it is time to get into a wetsuit for the safety brief and paddle tuition. You will then set off in inflatable packrafts on a mountain river, learning the basics as you go. The river offers a mix of wave trains, calm eddies and gentle stretches where you can float with the current, giving you time to take in views of glaciers, ancient beech forest and the wildlife of the braided riverbed.

A picnic lunch is served on the river bank during the day, and there is time to swim in turquoise holes along the way. The focus is on practical instruction and time on the water, so by the end of the trip you can expect to feel more confident handling the raft while experiencing a remote section of the Matukituki Valley from river level.