Māwheranui / Upper Grey River — Reefton
Flowing west from the Southern Alps to the Tasman Sea at Greymouth, Māwheranui — the Upper Grey River — winds through native beech forest, steep gorges and wide valleys framed by rugged mountains. The name Māwheranui means “widespread”, reflecting the river’s broad floodplains further downstream.
Beginning near Lake Cristobel and the Lewis Pass, the Upper Grey offers a true backcountry experience. Accessible only by raft, it reveals hidden gorges, cascading waterfalls and tranquil bush-lined reaches where moss, fern and beech thrive in every shade of green.
With its mix of Grade 2 – 3 rapids, Māwheranui is ideal for anyone seeking a balance of fun whitewater and unspoiled West Coast wilderness. Trips depart from Reefton and include all rafting gear, meals and riverside camping where applicable.
Upper Grey 1-Day Adventure
A scenic day trip through lush West Coast forest and gentle Grade 2–3 rapids. Perfect for first-time rafters or those short on time.
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Upper Grey 2-Day Adventure
Journey deeper into the valley through beech forest and steep-walled gorges. Includes riverside camping and hearty meals beside the fire.
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Upper Grey 3-Day Adventure
An extended backcountry expedition featuring the dramatic Gentle Annie Gorge, alpine valleys and starry nights at remote island camps.
View Trip Arnold River — Lake Brunner / Greymouth
Flowing out of Lake Brunner (Kōtuku Whakaoho) toward the Grey River / Māwheranui, the Arnold is a gem of the West Coast — short, beautiful, and full of energy. The river is surrounded by lush native rainforest and framed by the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps.
Known to Māori as Kōtuku Whakaoho, “awakening of the white heron,” this area is rich in birdlife and natural history. The Arnold’s clear, pool-drop flow creates a perfect introduction to whitewater rafting, with a mix of calm sections and lively Grade 2 – 3 rapids surrounded by native beech and podocarp forest.
Located just 20 minutes from Greymouth, the Arnold River is ideal for half-day or family adventures — offering a taste of the West Coast’s wilderness without needing to go far off the beaten track.
Arnold River Half Day
A fun and accessible rafting trip through gentle Grade 2–3 rapids on the lower Arnold. Perfect for beginners, families, or anyone short on time.
View Trip Upper Waiau-Uwha River — Hanmer Springs
Rising in the Spenser Mountains and flowing through the St James Conservation Area, the Waiau-Uwha — meaning “river of swirling currents” — is one of North Canterbury’s most scenic alpine rivers. Its clear waters carve through rugged gorges, open tussock valleys and high-country farmland before joining the Hope River near Lewis Pass.
In Māori tradition, Waiau-Uwha is the female river, forever separated from her partner Waiau-Toa (the Clarence River) as they each journey toward the Pacific. Her floods are said to be tears of longing, melting the snows at her source.
The Waiau-Uwha offers Grade 2 – 4 rapids in a landscape of mountains, beech forest and pure alpine air. Access is through Glenhope Station and the Magdalen Valley, reached by 4WD, mountain bike or helicopter — the perfect gateway to a true wilderness experience.
Waiau Day Trip
A fun introduction to rafting with entertaining Grade 2–3 rapids near Hanmer Springs — perfect for families and first-timers.
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Waiau 2-Day Adventure
Explore Glenhope Station and raft through a scenic alpine gorge. Comfortable overnight stay or riverside camp included.
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Waiau 3-Day Expedition
A challenging Grade 3–4 wilderness journey through the St James backcountry, with alpine camping and remote gorges.
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