Packraft Wanaka: Mountain River in Inflatable Boats
Ride wave trains and float calm eddies down a braided mountain river.
Packraft Wanaka is a full-day activity on the Matukituki Valley river in Mt. Aspiring National Park, where you paddle an inflatable packraft through glacial scenery, ancient beech forest and braided riverbeds. The day includes a scenic shuttle drive with a stop at Wishbone Falls, a safety brief and paddle tuition before heading downriver, a picnic lunch on the bank, and swimming in turquoise pools. A live guide teaches you to paddle like a pro by the end of the day.
Step-by-step itinerary
Packraft adventure in Matukituki Valley
- Pickup and trip briefing
- Shuttle to mountains with waterfall walk
- Put on wetsuit and receive paddle tuition
- Packraft down river with scenic views
- Enjoy picnic lunch on river bank
- Swim in turquoise river holes
- Continue paddling and return
What’s included
- All packrafting gear (wetsuits, booties, spray jackets, helmets).
- scenic shuttle drive with a stop at Wishbone Falls.
- safety brief and paddle tuition from a live guide.
- picnic lunch and snacks (dietary requirements provided at booking).
- photos taken throughout the day.
- courtesy return shuttle.
Times
- Every day 08:15
Before you book
Operated by Wanaka River Journeys
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The experience
The day starts with a scenic shuttle drive deep into the Matukituki Valley beneath towering mountains, glaciers and waterfalls. On the way you stop for a short walk to Wishbone Falls, then break for refreshments before getting into your wetsuit and packraft gear. The guide runs through a safety brief and paddle tuition so you know how to handle the stable, strong inflatable before you push off downriver.
Once on the water, you ride wave trains, paddle into calm eddies and float with the river flow, all while taking in views of glaciers, ancient beech forest and the unique wildlife of the braided riverbed. The packrafts are built for this terrain: responsive enough to maneuver but forgiving enough that you're learning as you go. A picnic lunch happens on the river bank partway through, and you'll have time to play in the turquoise swimming holes that dot the route.
By the end of the day your guide will have walked you through enough technique that paddling feels natural. Photos are taken throughout and included with your booking. A courtesy shuttle brings you back to the start, and a friendly support dog rides along on the drive. Let the operator know in advance if that's a concern.
Is this one for you?The paddle is seven and a half hours of active time on the water with a guide teaching you technique, so it suits someone with moderate fitness who's ready to learn and spend the day paddling, not someone looking for a short or mostly-scenic float.
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Top questions
Can children come?
Yes. Ticket types: Child (10 to 14 years). Children under 10 can't be included in the booking.
What happens if it rains?
It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.
What's the Matukituki Valley river like for someone who's never packrafted before?
The Matukituki is a braided mountain river with wave trains and calm eddies, designed for packrafting with a guide teaching you technique before and during the paddle. You'll be on stable, strong inflatable boats, and the guide has you paddling like a pro by day's end, so beginners leave with real skills.
Do I need to be a strong swimmer to paddle this river?
Yes, all guests must be able to swim. You'll be in and around the water all day, including time in turquoise swimming holes, so water confidence matters. Let the operator know your level (high, medium or low) when you book.
What happens at Wishbone Falls during the shuttle drive?
Wishbone Falls is a short walk you take during the scenic shuttle into the valley, before you get into your wetsuit and start paddling. It's part of the drive into Mt. Aspiring National Park, giving you a chance to stretch and see the landscape before the river work begins.
What gear do I need to bring, and what's provided?
The operator provides all packrafting gear (wetsuits, booties, spray jackets and helmets) along with photos, a picnic lunch and snacks (tell them your dietary needs when you book). You bring swimwear, a towel and any personal items. The operator will ask for your weight, height, shoe size and water confidence level to make sure the gear fits.
How long is the full day, and what time does it start?
The full experience runs about seven and a half hours from pickup to dropoff. The day includes the shuttle drive, the safety brief, the paddle downriver with lunch and swimming, and the return shuttle, so you're with the guide and the river for most of it.
Packraft Wanaka: Mountain River in Inflatable Boats
7h 15m · EN
from NZ$ 439 per person
≈ US$ 252 in your currency
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