Optional training if conditions are right – great fun tho
The ultimate Packrafting Week
Embark on an exhilarating journey with “The Ultimate Packrafting Adventure Week–Expedition X!” This awesome package combines 3 days of best-in-class packrafting instruction with a menu of day and short overnight trips aimed at those new to the sport but who are looking for a fully immersive week to sample the full spectrum of what packrafting has to offer. Each party’s experience will be tailored to the specific needs of the group, but all trips will be set against the awe inspiring backdrop of pristine Fiordland wilderness that will take your breath away.
Is this Adventure Week for me?
- Is this ‘Expedition X’ for me? Well, do you–
- Have limited paddling experience?
- Have a moderate degree of fitness?
- Feel confident in and around water?
- Love adventure but love a warm bed at night too?
- Have a passion for learning?
If you have answered YES to all of these questions, then this trip is probably a great fit.
The important things to know
Expedition Cost per person: Nz$1750 / per participant
We are only running 4 Expedition X courses a season. Most of our courses will be between Nov and March with the option to organise your own personal course. Min participant numbers apply.
Spaces will be limited with a maximum participant number of 4 to 6 per course.
- You are staying with us in our Packrafting NZ Eco Village – basic, glamping-styled tenting, shared facilities, and epic views. Available for the training days and once we are back out of the bush
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Our Eco Tent site has very basic cooking facilities with USB charging stations for your mobile phone. Usually, you share a 4-meter bell tent with someone else
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There is also a composting toilet and a basic shower available.
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Everything here works on solar power and is as environmentally friendly as we can.
- All Essential equipment provided, Provided gear includes
- High Quality Packrafts
- Dry / Wet suits
- Paddles
- Pfd etc
- Fitness plans with suggestions
We may provide in case we decide to do an overnight excursion
- Tents
- Sleeping Mats
- Sleeping Quilts
- Backpacks and drybags
- Some meals
One Team BBq
- Private clothing
- Food
- Accommodation
- Because this trip can be catered to the groups overall fitness, experience, and skill level, it does not necessarily require particularly high levels of fitness. That being said, the ability to swim and a degree of water confidence are required, and the higher your fitness the more you will get out of the week!
- This expedition is best suited for moderately fit adults or older teens wanting to get a taste of the packrafting expedition lifestyle without committing to a full expedition.
- All participants should be able to swim and be water confident.
- You will learn heaps! Including:
- Boat handling and control on moving water (equivalent to our Level 1 course)
- How to prepare for multi-trips
- How to deal with winds on lakes
- Night paddling
- Surfing (optional)
- Overnight travel and paddling skills
- You will have heaps of time to practice your skills and leave a bonafide packrafter!
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- Stay with us or sort your accommodation for the weekend in Te Anau
- Food in the form of snacks for 2-active days in and on the water.
- Warm layers/pants and tops/some thick socks (polypro recommended for under the wetsuit/dry suit.)
- Reasonable fitness will make things easier (upper body strength will help and a reasonable technique in freestyle swimming.)
- Great sense of adventure (and humour!)
If you have your own packrafting gear we strongly recommend that you use it for the course, as it is important to get practice with your own kit. If you don’t have your own kit, don’t worry, we have a full kit you can hire for the course for free.
Arno, Owner of packrafting nz
“12 years ago, when the world was still unfamiliar with the concept of packrafting, I embarked on a journey that would forever change my life. Packrafting New Zealand was born
Arno, Owner and head Instructor of Packrafting New Zealand
Waiau River Training
Explore the Course
Playing in the surf
Explore the Course
Getting ready
Explore the Course
High Winds on the lake Training
Explore the Course
Paddle Swim Training
Explore the Course
Trust your leader to get you to the other side
Booking process
- Booking Form and Departure Date: Fill out the Booking form form and select your preferred departure date.
- Let us check things: We will get back to you with either a confirmation or a few other dates in case that course is already fully booked
- Payments: Full payment or a deposit is required to secure your place ( please read the Terms & Conditions/refund policy ). We will hold your spot for 5 days if not paid we give it away.
- Own Gear: If you have your own Kit or parts please bring it with you as it is best to train with your own gear
- Stay in Touch: Keep us informed of your progress and any challenges you encounter—we’re here to help!
- Final Payment: Pay the remaining fee 30 days before your course starts.
Expedition x - Booking Request
This course is an extension of our Level 1 course for those of you who really want to get the basics nailed down and start your packrafting journey with a solid foundation. You’d be surprised what 2 extra days of training and experience do to your comfort levels.
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