The Wairaurahiri
Expedition

DAY 1
After introductions in Te Anau we’ll head to our local river, The Waiau, for a day of training. We’ll practice river reading, working as a team, self-rescue, and just make sure everyone is ready for the upcoming challenge. In the afternoon, there will be a bit of time to pick up any last-minute bits of kit as well. You’ll need to sort your own meals and accommodation on day 1.

DAY 2
This is the business! Today we’ll make our way across the lake via jet boat to the start of the river. We’ll get suited up for whitewater and get ready for the rapids! What follows is 18 km of near-constant Grade II/II+ rapids on what is teasingly known as New Zealand’s longest waterfall. The true wilderness waterway takes us all the way to the South Coast and the fabulous Waitutu Lodge – and hot showers!

Please note: all your gear will be transported via jet boat to Waitutu Lodge, to make sure we have maximum fun and play opportunities on the river.

DAY 3
A 17km walk along a well-formed track through the native bush will reward us with incredible views as we cross several world-famous viaducts, including the Percy Burn Viaduct, which is believed to be the longest surviving wooden viaduct in the world! We’ll spend the night near the beach at the Port Craig hut, which used to serve as the logging town’s tiny schoolhouse back in the early 20th century, and is the only building still standing from the historic settlement.

DAY 4
We’ll finish our journey with either a walk or (conditions dependent) paddle from Port Craig to Rarakau and our vehicle. Tide and seas depending, we’ll have the option of several shortcuts along the way, and if paddling, may even be joined by the local pod of dolphins. Whatever our mode of transportation, the views across the vast and endless Southern Ocean are a fitting way to bring the adventure to a conclusion.