Long Weekend — 3 Days
Heli in to Dart Stream and float the last 80 km to the sea
3 Days
Duration
5+ Years
Age
Grade II+
River grade
$1,800 pp
From
The Sawtooth Gorge
Whitewater rapids
Family rafting
Campfire cooking
The perfect introduction to multi-day rafting. Heli in to Dart Stream over the Seaward Kaikōura Range and float the last 80 km out to the ocean through the Sawtooth Gorge — three leisurely days, no time pressure.
- Helicopter flight from Clarence to Dart Stream
- 80 km river journey to the sea
- Two nights camping on river beaches
- Relaxed pacing, no downstream time pressure
- Earthquake geology and landscape interpretation
- Wildlife — falcons, paradise ducks, eels
- Same incredible food and guides as the full river journey
One of the best things you could do for a long weekend, and a fantastic introduction to multi-day wilderness adventures. The river section starts at Dart Stream, reached by helicopter from Clarence over the Seaward Kaikōura Range and down into the beginning of the Sawtooth Gorge. From there we take three leisurely days to float out to the ocean, covering the last 80 km — same food, wine and local knowledge as our longer trips, just without the time pressure.
Suitable for any active person of moderate fitness. Minimum age 5.
- A very popular family activity — something every age group will enjoy
- Trampers and climbers who want the wilderness without carrying a pack
- Tramping clubs, book clubs and community groups from all over New Zealand
- A stunning way to celebrate — 50th birthdays, anniversaries, reunions
- Botanists, geologists, birders and photographers — this valley has a lot to offer
- Kayakers who want to bring non-kayaking friends along for the journey
- Those who love adventure and campfires but also appreciate wine glasses and wild New Zealand cuisine
- Spring: higher river flows make on-river days relaxed; nesting birds and snow-capped mountains
- Summer: lower, warmer water — perfect for swimming; special valley plants in flower
- Autumn: clear, calm weather; cooling temperatures and stunning colours
Each season offers a different mood. Pick a time that suits your style and enjoy the wilderness.
Fly from Clarence over the Seaward Kaikōura Range to the put-in at Dart Stream. Ease into the river and camp on a secluded beach.
A full day through the Sawtooth Gorge and into the lower valley — rapids, geology and big country, at a relaxed pace. Final camp.
A gentle final day floating the last stretch to the Pacific at the Clarence River mouth, then transfer back.
What’s Included
- All rafting equipment — rafts, paddles and safety gear
- All camping equipment — tents, sleeping mats and sleeping bags
- All meals from lunch on day one to lunch on the final day
- Experienced river guides and camp crew
- Transport to the put-in and from the take-out
- Waterproof bags for personal gear
- First aid and emergency communication equipment
What to Bring
Essential gear
- Quick-dry clothing (layers)
- Thermal layers (top and bottom)
- Warm fleece or jacket for evenings
- Rain jacket (waterproof)
- River shoes (secure footwear)
- Sunhat and sunglasses with a strap
- Toiletries (biodegradable)
- Personal medication
- Headlamp or torch
Optional items
- Fishing gear (permit required)
- Camera (waterproof recommended)
- Book or journal
- Binoculars
- Personal snacks
- Insect repellent
We’ll provide a detailed packing list once you book.
Important Information
Helicopter access
The helicopter is weather dependent and can occasionally run into departure delays. We’ll keep you posted as your departure approaches.
Experience level
Multi-day trips are more physically demanding than our half-day trips. Be comfortable with:
- Several hours of paddling each day
- Camping in remote locations
- No shower or phone signal for the duration
- Carrying personal gear to and from the rafts
- Potentially challenging weather
Swimming ability
Swimming ability is not essential, but all participants need to be aware they may end up in the river. We begin with a thorough safety briefing which details how to avoid falling out and what to do if you find yourself in the river. Non swimmers should disclose this to the trip leader so we can do our best to make you feel comfortable.
Booking & planning
Multi-day trips need advance booking (minimum two weeks, preferably longer) so we can prepare food, organise equipment, check river conditions and confirm DOC permits. Peak season (Dec–Jan) books out early.
Weather dependent
If conditions are unsafe we may postpone or modify your trip. We stay in close contact as your departure date approaches.
Safety certified
- WorkSafe AAR regulated
- DOC concession holder
- NZ Rivers Association member
- Qualified professional guides
Frequently Asked Questions
None at all — our guides handle everything and teach you as you go. If you’d like, you can even have a turn at guiding a raft under supervision.
Our guides cook fresh, seasonal local food over the campfire — from green-lip mussels and fresh-roast coffee to Marlborough whites. Food really is our thing. We cater GF, DF and vege options with notice.
We provide tents, sleeping mats and sleeping bags. Each night we camp on a secluded river beach — every campsite has its own character.
These are remote wilderness trips — no showers, and no phone signal for the duration. We carry a portable toilet and follow leave-no-trace principles.
Suitable for any active person of moderate fitness, ages 5+. You’ll paddle for several hours a day and help carry personal gear to and from the rafts.
Trips are weather dependent — for safety we may modify or postpone. Where a trip uses helicopter access, that flight is also weather dependent and can occasionally run into departure delays.
Ready to Talk Dates?
This is your river, this is our home. Get in touch and we’ll help you plan it.
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