Multi-Day River Expeditions
Extended wilderness adventures on the Clarence River system
2-5 days
12+ years
Grade II-IV
POA - Custom pricing
True Wilderness Expeditions
Our multi-day trips offer the ultimate Clarence River experience. Leave civilization behind and immerse yourself in the pristine wilderness of the KaikΕura backcountry. These expeditions are for those seeking adventure, solitude, and a deeper connection with New Zealand's wild rivers.
Unlike our half-day trips, multi-day expeditions take you into remote sections of the river system rarely seen by others. Camp on secluded river beaches, wake to birdsong, and experience the river's changing moods as you journey downstream over multiple days.
ποΈ Expedition Style Camping
Experience true wilderness camping on pristine river beaches. We provide all camping equipment, gourmet camp meals, and expert guides who are equally skilled at river navigation and backcountry living. Fall asleep to the sound of the river and wake to spectacular mountain views.
Available Expeditions
2-Day Clarence River Journey
The perfect introduction to multi-day rafting. Experience more of the Clarence River than our half-day trip allows, with one night of riverside camping. This trip covers approximately 30-35km of river, including sections with more technical rapids and pristine wilderness.
Day 1:
- Morning departure and shuttle to put-in
- 4-5 hours of rafting through varied terrain
- Set up camp on a secluded river beach
- Riverside dinner and evening by the campfire
Day 2:
- Breakfast and break camp
- 3-4 hours of rafting to take-out
- Lunch on the river or at base
- Return shuttle (arrive back early afternoon)
Price: From $450 per person (minimum 4 people)
3-Day Waiau River Expedition
Explore the Waiau River, the Clarence's bigger sister. This three-day journey takes you through stunning gorges, past earthquake-uplifted terraces, and into truly remote wilderness. More relaxed pacing allows time for swimming, fishing, and exploring side streams.
Highlights:
- 50-60km river journey
- Two nights wilderness camping
- More challenging Grade III rapids
- Extensive earthquake geology
- Fishing opportunities (permit required)
- Wildlife spotting (falcons, paradise ducks, eels)
Price: From $750 per person (minimum 4 people)
4-5 Day Custom Expeditions
For experienced rafters or those seeking the ultimate wilderness experience, we can arrange extended expeditions on the Clarence or other Canterbury rivers. These trips may include more challenging Grade IV rapids, higher volume water, and fully self-supported expedition-style camping.
Custom options include:
- Extended Clarence River expeditions (4-5 days)
- Combination trips on multiple rivers
- Spring high-water adventures
- Photography-focused expeditions
- Fishing-focused river trips
Price: POA - Depends on duration, group size, and specific requirements
What's Included
- All rafting equipment (rafts, paddles, safety gear)
- Wetsuits and appropriate clothing
- All camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats, sleeping bags)
- All meals from lunch Day 1 to lunch final day
- Experienced river guides and camp crew
- Transport to put-in and from take-out
- Waterproof bags and barrels for personal gear
- First aid and emergency communication equipment
What to Bring
Essential Gear
- Quick-dry clothing (layers)
- Warm fleece or jacket for evenings
- Rain jacket (waterproof)
- River shoes (secure footwear)
- Sunhat and sunglasses with 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 upon booking.
Important Information
β οΈ Experience Level
Multi-day trips are more physically demanding than our half-day trips. Participants should be comfortable with:
- Multiple hours of paddling each day
- Camping in remote locations
- No shower or phone signal for the duration
- Carrying personal gear to/from rafts
- Potentially challenging weather conditions
π Swimming Ability Required
All participants must be confident swimmers. Remote locations mean rescue is more challenging, so swimming ability is essential for multi-day trips.
π Booking & Planning
Multi-day trips require advance booking (minimum 2 weeks, preferably longer). We need time to prepare food, organize equipment, check river conditions, and ensure DOC permits are in place. Peak season (Dec-Jan) books out early.
π‘οΈ Weather Dependent
Multi-day trips are more weather-dependent than day trips. If conditions are unsafe, we may need to postpone or modify your trip. We'll stay in close contact as your departure date approaches.
Plan Your Multi-Day Adventure
Contact us to discuss your expedition