Rafting in New Zealand can mean a lot of things. It could involve a family group meandering down a gentle stream or some tough, extreme sports fanatics tackling rapids and waterfalls far off the grading scale. It could be an easy morning excursion with a few exciting mid-grade rapids or a gruelling multi-day challenge in some of the country’s wildest and most remote rivers.

In the North Island, the best-known rafting rivers are in the centre and the eastern Bay of Plenty, while the South Island offers dozens of opportunities in the rivers that run from the Southern Alps. River levels change with the weather. From gentle grade-one rapids to a grade-five challenge, the country has it covered. Wherever you go, you’re assured of high safety standards, experienced crew, magnificent scenery and a lot of fun.