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Summer Holidays
All the family at home? Looking for things to do with the kids?
Have you been looking for a first time family adventure experience that is safe, scenic and fun?
Have You Ever Thought that a Day on a River Could be a Fun Adventure?
Families (and friends!) love the Scenic section of the Rangitikei River, downstream from River Valley Lodge.
Why Do They Love It?
Not only had they been looking for things to do with kids, but they had also been looking for somewhere for their family to have their first river rafting experience.
They wanted a rafting trip that was safe, scenic, interesting, and FUN!
With over 30 Grade 2 (easy) rapids, the 13 km scenic section of the Rangitikei River downstream from River Valley Lodge was just what they were looking for.
A Stunning Canyon with a Picnic Lunch
On the way down, immense cliffs cradle the river canyon. It is in one of these sections that we stop and have a picnic lunch. From there it is a relaxing float out to the take out, followed by a scenic drive back to River Valley Lodge.
You Could also Experience a Fantastic Fun Day on the River
Our guides will ensure that you are equipped with appropriate equipment, both to keep you warm, and to keep you out of harm.
Depending on the day this could include, wetsuits or specially designed bib style splash pants, neoprene boots and lifejackets. Helmets are always worn.
Time for Inflatable Kayaks
We realise that with a variety of ages, not everybody wants to sit in the raft with Mum and Dad. This is the situation where we put on some inflatable kayaks. These stable, and easily maneouvered boats, are a heap of fun and will get young teens (and adults) smiling from ear to ear as they run some of the easy rapids.
How Much Time to Allow, and When to Do It
Total time on the actual river depends on flow, but is generally between 3 and a half to 4 hours. You will stop for lunch along the way. Please allow for a full day, with a meeting time of 9.30am at River Valley Lodge. For those with less time – we can sometimes run this trip in half a day with lunch at the lodge, please enquire when booking.
This is a seasonal adventure, from 1st October to 30th April.
For families, when booking a Scenic river rafting adventure, we will need to know the age of your children.
What if You Just Want a Pleasant day on the River with Friends?
This trip can also be run as a gentle float trip with oared rafts, especially suitable for older or less active participants.
If you are part of a group who would like a very relaxed experience such as one that is provided by oared rafts, please specify when booking so we can make sure that is the type of experience you will get.
Sounds Great, so What Next?
Click on the booking link on this page to check availability and to book your trip.
If you have the time and would like to stay with us, we have accommodation options at the lodge – from budget bunk rooms to deluxe ensuites. This trip can be booked as part of our ‘Stay & Play’ package, which includes your accommodation and meals, for the full River Valley experience.
Alternatively, search for other suitable rafting trips here
What we provide
- Wetsuit or fleece lined paddle pants
- Helmet
- Lifejacket
- Neoprene booties
- Fleece top
- Paddle jacket
- On cooler days, neoprene gloves and neoprene socks
- A riverside picnic lunch
What to bring
- Towel
- Swimsuit
- A thirst for fun!
- Sunscreen
- You are welcome to bring your phone or camera on this trip and we will try to provide a dry bag or box to put them in
Have any questions?
Speak to one of our friendly adventure consultants who would love to help you out.
thelodge@rivervalley.co.nz / 0800 248666
