SunLive Competition

Don’t be alarmed when you are told rafting the Wairoa River happens just after the dam has been released – be more alarmed you have only 26 days a year to enjoy such a fun thrilling experience.

In our own backyard is the magnificent Wairoa River, located in the lower Kaimai Ranges which is hydro-controlled and recognised worldwide for its rafting value.

The Wairoa River courses through a stunning rock and tree lined gorge. Raftabout offer a truly unforgettable and exhilarating journey down the river for thrill seekers, bucket list tickers, stag parties and even the fainted hearted like myself.

Raftabout pride themselves on a ‘safety first’ culture and their attention to detail, so you can be assured all rafts are maintained in excellent condition, undergo annual independent Maritime New Zealand Audits and equipment is of the highest standard.

My guide introduces himself as Leith, aka Lethal and really heightens the fun factor by hyping up each drop. The most memorable being ‘mothers nightmare’ all the while reassuring me I am totally safe – as clumsy as I am.

Be assured though, all Raftabout guides hold a NZ Raft Guide Award and maintain current First Aid and Swift Water Rescue qualifications. They are motivated, enthusiastic individuals who add a wealth of personal knowledge and experiences to their detailed training to ensure a really entertaining time.

Raftabout offers something for everyone from a gentle grade two scenic raft trip on the Rangitaiki River (suitable for as young as five year olds), a medium grade three to four scenic trip, to full-on grade five action on the wonderful Wairoa River or the Kaituna River, which features the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall at 7m high. Sledging and kayaking is also available.

All you need to bring is togs, towel and yourself, everything else is supplied, even lunch on the Wairoa and Rangitaiki Rivers is included, so I highly recommend giving it a go to all. To check it all out visit www.raftabout.co.nz

Win: Two tickets for rafting on the Wairoa River to give away with SunLive. To enter, you must be logged in. Click here to register for free!

Competition Results

Vicki Scoggins