About This Tour
Our grade 5, white water rafting trip is often recognised as one of the best half day trips in the world! It was recently voted in the top 8 white water trips in the world by Red Bull. With 10 major rapids on this 11 km run, plus numerous smaller rapids, there is plenty to get excited about. This is a very active trip and you will need to work as part of a team to navigate your way through steep drops, chutes and major rapids in the grade 5 gorge. The trip starts off with some mellow grade 1-3 rapids, which are great practice for what lies ahead. Throughout the trip you will see some amazing New Zealand scenery along the way. And the trip finishes back at River Valley Lodge, for hot showers! You can also choose to add on meals or accommodation at the lodge after your trip.
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Grade 5 White Water Rafting
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Half Day, Grade 5, White Water Rafting on the Rangitikei River
This 4-hour white water rafting trip on the Rangitikei River navigates Grade 5 rapids. It's designed for experienced rafters seeking an adrenaline rush and challenging river conditions in a scenic natural environment.
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What's Included
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Additional Information
Meeting Point
If you are using a GPS then our co-ordinates are – South 39°37-800 East 176°02-583 – however we do not recommend using GPS as it does not take you on the easiest route. The Details • If you are traveling South, turn left at the River Valley signpost, 18km after Waiouru. • If you are traveling North, use the Gretna Hotel in Taihape as your starting point, with the Gretna Hotel on your left. The 32km drive will last around 35 minutes after taking you through some of New Zealand’s finest and most picturesque hill country. Please follow the regular signs to River Valley. • After turning off State Highway 1, you will cross two bridges coming from Waiouru, and three bridges coming from Taihape. • The last 1.5 km’s are gravel and take you to the Lodge at the end of Mangahoata Road.
Special Instructions
• Departures are subject to a minimum of 4 people bring booked in, and are river level dependent. We will not put on if the river is outside our safe operating limits. In the unlikely event that we cannot run a trip you will be contacted to make alternative arrangements or to arrange a refund. Under New Zealand law, we are required to advise you of the risks associated with this activity. Please follow this link - https://rivervalley.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/River-Valley-Risk-Disclosure.pdf
Cancellation Policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
✓ Free cancellation due to bad weather
Tour Operator
River Valley Adventures
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Guest Ratings
Total review count and overall rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews
Based on 67 verified reviews
Average rating
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Half Day, Grade 5, White Water Rafting on the Rangitikei River
Who operates this experience?
This experience is operated by River Valley Adventures, a local water sports provider.
What's included?
This tour includes All equipment is provided - Wetsuit, helmet, lifejacket, neoprene booties, fleece top, paddle jacket, and on cooler days, neoprene gloves and neoprene socks.. All inclusions are provided by the tour operator.
How long is this tour?
The experience lasts approximately 4 hours, giving you time to fully enjoy your chosen activity.
Can I cancel this tour?
If weather conditions are unsafe, the tour may be canceled by the operator. In such cases, you'll be offered a refund or reschedule.
What should I bring?
We recommend bringing a swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen. All necessary equipment is provided by the tour operator.
Is this tour worth it?
Yes, this experience has a 5.0-star rating based on 67+ reviews, making it a highly rated option.
What to expect on this tour?
This water sports experience lasts approximately 4 hours and includes all necessary equipment and guidance. You'll have access to All equipment is provided - Wetsuit, helmet, lifejacket, neoprene booties, fleece top, paddle jacket, and on cooler days, neoprene gloves and neoprene socks..
What's the best time to do this tour?
Morning and early afternoon are typically the best times for water activities, as conditions are usually calmer and visibility is better.
Do I need to know how to swim?
Swimming ability requirements vary. Life jackets and safety equipment are provided. Please check the tour details or contact the operator if you have concerns about swimming requirements.
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