Clarence River Rafting
Waiau Toa / Clarence River
Rafting on the Clarence River, which cuts through the Kaikōura Ranges, with canyons, limestone cliffs and grade-two rapids suitable for families.
The Clarence River (Māori name Waiau Toa) rises in the Southern Alps and enters the sea about 35 km north of Kaikōura. Local operators offer half-day rafting trips (about 3 hours, grade-two rapids, suitable for families with children aged 6 and up) as well as multi-day camping rafting trips. Along the way you pass canyons, limestone cliffs and trout pools, where you can jump in and swim. Half-day trips cost about NZD 150. The meeting point is near the Clarence River Bridge on State Highway 1, and advance booking is required. Trips are cancelled when the river is high.
Opening hours
Daily departures in rafting season (reservations required)
Nearby sights
- Ōhau Point Seal Colony
- Nin's Bin
- The Store at Kekerengu
- Point Kean Seal Colony
- Fyffe House
- Kaikōura Seafood BBQ
- Kaikoura Whale Watch
- Kaikōura Museum