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North Island

Start: River Valley
Locations: River Valley, Taihape
Duration: 2 days
Travel Time: 6 hours
Difficulty: 2
Minimum Age: 13

Details

A Perfect Blend of Nature and Soft Adventure

The Stay & Play with Scenic Rafting experience blends gentle adventure with genuine relaxation. Drifting along the Rangitikei River, you’ll travel through 13 km of stunning scenery framed by native bush and striking cliffs. With over 30 fun Grade 2 rapids, it’s the ideal pace for families and couples wanting a balance of excitement and serenity.

Your experienced guides ensure the journey feels effortless, giving you time to soak up the peaceful surroundings. A riverside lunch adds to the day’s charm, served fresh beside the clear waters that weave through this beautiful part of Aotearoa. It’s an experience that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and truly connect with nature.

Duration: 2 days / 1 night

From River to Retreat – The Ultimate Lodge Escape

After a day on the river, River Valley Lodge welcomes you with warmth and comfort. Settle in beside the fire with a glass of local wine, or take a dip in the hot tub beneath a starlit sky. Every meal celebrates locally grown, organic ingredients, lovingly prepared for a taste of true Kiwi hospitality.

Whether you’re escaping for a romantic retreat or sharing a family adventure, your stay at the lodge is designed to restore and refresh. Wake to the sounds of nature, ready for another day of discovery in the heart of the Rangitikei. The Stay & Play with Scenic Rafting package is more than a getaway – it’s a chance to reconnect with what really matters.

Risk Disclosure

Adventure activities inherently involve risks to both individuals and property. We strive to minimize these risks as much as possible, but we cannot guarantee your safety. It's essential that you select activities suitable for your fitness level and expectations. The river grade indicates the level (1 to 6) of risk for river trips, with 6 being the highest. Making the right choice ensures the safety of yourself and others.

📌 Booking this trip means you have read and agree to the risks associated with this activity. Download the full Risk Disclosure here.

INCLUSIONS

  • Spend one night in a luxurious ensuite room OR bunk room
  • Experience our full-day Awesome Scenic Rafting trip
  • Enjoy breakfast, a picnic lunch on the river, and dinner
  • Access to our spa facilities (only available with the deluxe package)

Please let us know your preferred activity day - our scenic rafting trips run daily at 9.30am from October to April. Trips depend on meeting minimum numbers and weather conditions. One of our team members will contact you to confirm the day and time of your activity.

AGE INFO

  • Adult: 18 Years Old and Above
  • Children: 13-17 Years Old

CANCELLATION & REFUND

  • More than 30 days before – Deposit not refunded; other payments refunded.
  • Less than 30 days – Deposit not refunded; 50% of other payments refunded.
  • Less than 14 days – No refund.

If River Valley cancels:

  • You can accept the change, rebook, or get a full refund if major changes are needed (e.g., due to weather).

Note: *Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.

Frequently asked questions

You’ll need an average level of fitness and a good sense of adventure. Enthusiasm is just as important as fitness—listening to your guide and following instructions is essential for everyone’s safety.

No previous experience is required. Our guides will show you everything you need to know on the day. Just bring your energy, stay alert, and be ready to follow instructions—it’s not a theme park ride!

All River Valley guides are qualified through the New Zealand Rafting Association and SFRITO. Many have international experience and complete regular safety and skills training. All guides are trained in First Aid and CPR.

River Valley Lodge is about 32 km from Taihape, the nearest town. We recommend filling up on fuel and grabbing any supplies before heading out.

Getting Here

River Valley Lodge is located near Taihape in the Rangitikei District, North Island. It’s a scenic rural area, perfect for a stop between Rotorua/Taupō and Wellington, or about 2 hours from Napier, Palmerston North, or Whanganui.

Drive carefully on country roads, and note that while GPS coordinates are S 39°37.800 | E 176°02.583. Google Maps

Address:

River Valley Lodge,
266 Mangahoata Road
Taihape

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