River expedition

Step into Aotearoa’s heart - where rivers carve through untouched valleys and adventure flows freely.

Days of rapids, gorges, and wilderness. Nights under southern stars, fireside stories, and deep connection with the elements.

Every river reveals something different - excitement, stillness, and perspective. This is adventure with intention, crafted to stir your soul and remind you what it means to adventure.

Get in touch
People on a yellow raft white water rafting on a river surrounded by lush green trees and foliage.
“After a decade guiding rivers, they’ve become part of who I am. We tailor expedition’s to put your group on the best one’s suited. It’s a a slice of paradise I’m proud to share with those ready to explore.”
— Nathan Stead

Whats included

  • All transport & logistics managed by our team

  • Guided rafting on New Zealand’s most scenic rivers

  • Journeys ranging from half-day runs to multi-day expeditions

  • Helicopter access to remote rivers otherwise unreachable

  • Accommodation from boutique lodges to riverside camps

  • Freshly prepared meals, snacks, and drinks

  • Flexible itineraries tailored to your group’s pace and style

  • All safety gear and expert guides provided

  • Optional experiences: hiking, horse trekking, biking, jet boating, fishing

Rivers of New Zealand

Every river has its own style - from glacial fed to crystal clear creeks, each offers a unique glimpse into the story of this land.

Below are some of the rivers that often feature in our different expeditions. These differ with seasons, rainfall, and flow, that’s part of the magic.

rivers highlights

A group of people wearing helmets and life jackets paddling in a raft through a river surrounded by rocky cliffs and lush green trees, with misty mountains in the background.

  • The Shotover and Kawarau are dramatic canyons, steeped in gold-mining history, and thrilling rapids just minutes from town. Here, adventure is a way of life. Between rivers, there’s jet boating, biking, bungy jumping, hiking, and world-class dining. Queenstown is where adrenaline meets comfort and so much more.

  • For those wanting something more personal and flexible, packrafting around Queenstown is the perfect option. With endless mountain-fed creeks and scenic rivers to explore, this is about discovery, teamwork, and freedom. It’s hands-on and mix’s adventure with exploration at your own pace.

  • The Landsborough is a true wilderness experience, and a personal favourite. Accessed by helicopter or a two-day hike, it winds beneath the Southern Alps through a landscape that feels untouched. Over three days, you’ll paddle down quality whitewater, set up camp in wild alpine valleys, eat fire cooked meals sharing beverages and stories before falling asleep to the sound of the river beside you. This is a potent backcountry immersion, where time slows down and connection deepens.

  • A fitting finale. The Rangitata is big, beautiful, and full of power. It has to be one of the most exciting gorges of big volume whitewater in New Zealand, a perfect blend of challenge and celebration. It’s the kind of place that leaves you buzzing, where the adrenaline fades and the smiles stay, knowing you’ve just experienced something incredible.

  • Short, steep, and packed with fun, the Kaituna is one of New Zealand’s most action packed whitewater runs. Winding through lush native bush and waterfalls - including Tutea Falls, the world’s highest commercially rafted drop at seven metres - it’s an exhilarating way to kick off your adventure. The Rotorua region hums with geothermal energy, Māori culture, and laid-back lake life. This area has the perfect mix to integrate into the kiwi way of living.

  • The Rangitīkei winds through deep canyons and rolling hill country, a mix of excitement and serenity. It’s famous for its turquoise water and fun, technical class IV/V rapids that carve through the heart of the central North Island. The River Valley Lodge is a hidden gem - rustic, welcoming, and surrounded by farmland and sheep that you’d be counting forever. It’s the kind of place you arrive as a guest and leave as family.

Team of people wearing yellow helmets and life vests, paddling a yellow inflatable raft on a river during daytime.

Journey your way

Dates: Suited to your schedule
Meeting Location: Most NZ airports


We tailor private expeditions to suit your group. Pricing will depend on the size and customisation of your journey - let’s chat about your ideal adventure. These expeditions are best complimented with other activities in the region.

Start Planning