Water Based Activities

Our water-based activities range from the exuberant thrill of white water rafting to week-long kayaking adventures, set in spectacular mountain-river scenery. Water safety is paramount to us. Our staff hold qualifications from the NZ Rafting Association and are rigorous in applying high safety standards.

White water rafting is an exuberant, high-energy activity combining personal challenge with teamwork. Navigating the wild-fired rapids of a mid south island river is a truly memorable experience. Our river safety courses are practical and engaged and are a brilliant way to gain respect for the environment, develop teamwork and be empowered with new skills. Learning how to keep your head in an emergency builds confidence in all areas of life.

Our water-based activities offer challenge, excitement and fun in the breath-taking remote reaches of some of the most beautiful rivers in New Zealand. Peel Forest Outdoor Pursuits Centre is audited annually by Maritime New Zealand. Our safety track record is exemplary.

Whitewater Rafting

Grade 2. This is the most popular section of river for all ages. We begin the trip at the end of the Rangitata Gorge and bounce down the numerous Grade Two rapids in the 12km section finishing at the OPC Headquarters. We also run rafting trips on the Pukaki, Waimakariri and Buller Rivers.

"A really good activity for the development of teamwork".

Kayaking

Using the Rangitata River and Orari Rivers, kayak courses can be structured to suit each individual's or group's needs. Kayaking is mainly for ages 13 years and older. We provide kayaking for groups and also training and assessment for Grade 2 kayak certificates for multi sport events.

"Well pitched at total beginners on water and also at those who had a bit of experience. Instructors made it FUN and formed a good instructor-client relationship"

Sit-on Kayaks These kayaks are stable and safe, yet provide the opportunity for students to experience a river trip, surfing waves and running rapids after only a few hours of instruction.

Eco Rafting

Learn about the environment while you go…

River Safety

Group members are instructed on hazards associated with rivers and how to recognise and avoid them. Activities during the session include:

• River Crossing
• Throwing Rescue Ropes
• Whitewater Flotation Practice
• Buddy Rescues using towlines
• Whitewater Swimming
• Self-rescue Techniques

"All activities were easily adjusted for each group's level of confidence. Children had fun and learnt many new skills".

Jumpcliff Rafting

We negotiate our way upriver into the Rangitata Gorge using rafts and kayaks to give group members the chance to jump from the 10 metre "Jump Cliff" into the river.

"The students were able to challenge themselves in a number of ways without feeling threatened in any way. All abilities were well catered for with heaps of support and encouragement".

Multiday River Expeditions

"A genuine wilderness experience" for ages of 11 +. All food, equipment, and transport is provided, along with experienced instructors.

Grey River – 3 day rafting

Three days of rafting through pristine West Coast bush on a beautiful grade 3 river, with a backdrop of mountain scenery. We camp in beech forest along the way, learning about the environment and relax around the campfire in the evening. All our equipment and food is carried on the rafts, for a truly expedition-style journey.

Clarence River - 5 day rafting or kayaking

A grade 2 to 3, multi-day trip down the Clarence River, which flows between the Inland and Seaward Kaikoura Ranges. Over 5 days we travel 200 scenic kilometres from the alpine village of Hanmer Springs to the sea. We travel in rafts, carrying all our food and equipment for the time we will be away.

This trip begins with a drive over Jacks Pass and across river flats to our put in at the Old Acheron Accommodation House. Once we have packed our rafts we head downstream for the next four nights. We camp alongside the river at simple campsites each night, travelling through an ever-changing countryside of rock, tussock, and bush. The river flows at a steady pace and there is generally little need to paddle to make progress. After 5 days we emerge within sight of the coast, where we are picked up.

Depending upon client experience level, we may take small rafts or an inflatable kayak to allow for a more intimate (wetter!) experience of the river.