Wanaka River: Packrafting Adventure with Guide & Lunch

Summary

Packraft down the Matukituki River with glacier views and lunch

You’ll paddle down the Matukituki River near Wanaka with a local guide, stopping for a riverside picnic lunch and swimming if you’re brave enough. Expect mountain views, glacier air, and plenty of laughs as you learn packrafting basics—plus hotel pickup and all your gear sorted so you can just show up ready for adventure.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was nervous about the wetsuit part — it’s never exactly graceful getting into one, especially in front of strangers. But our guide, Jamie, just grinned and said everyone looks ridiculous at first. The shuttle ride from Wanaka out to the Matukituki Valley was all misty mountains and sheep fields, plus this big friendly dog who kept trying to sit on my foot. We stopped at Wishbone Falls for a quick walk (the spray on my face woke me up better than coffee), then it was straight into gear.

The river itself surprised me — not wild like I’d pictured, but this clear blue-green ribbon winding through beech forest and stones. Jamie ran us through paddle basics and safety stuff (I definitely zoned out for a second watching sunlight flicker on the water), then we launched. The packrafts felt weirdly sturdy for something inflatable. Sometimes we’d hit these little wave trains that made my stomach drop; other times we just drifted quietly, listening to birds or nothing at all except the water slapping plastic. I tried to say “Matukituki” right — Jamie laughed and said even locals mess it up.

Lunch was a picnic on some flat rocks by the riverbank — sandwiches, fruit, hot tea from a thermos. My hands were freezing but honestly it tasted perfect after paddling. A couple of us jumped in one of the turquoise swimming holes (cold enough to make you yelp). By late afternoon I could actually steer without spinning in circles every time — small victories. The drive back felt quieter somehow; maybe everyone was just tired or maybe it’s that feeling you get when you know you did something new that’ll stick with you awhile.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Packraft Adventure in Wanaka

• Pickup and trip briefing
• Shuttle to mountains and short walk to Wishbone Falls
• Packraft down river with glacier and forest views

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for the Wanaka packrafting tour?

Yes, courtesy shuttle pickup and dropoff are included from Wanaka.

Do I need previous rafting experience for this trip?

No experience is needed; guides provide full instruction before starting.

What should I bring for packrafting on the Matukituki River?

Bring swimwear for under your wetsuit; all other gear is provided.

Is lunch included during the day trip?

Yes, a picnic lunch and snacks are included—just mention dietary needs when booking.

Are children allowed on this packrafting adventure?

Children aged 4–14 can join but must be accompanied by an adult over 18.

Can I join if I can't swim?

No, all participants must be able to swim confidently.

How long does the tour last?

The day trip lasts several hours including transport, paddling, and breaks.

Are photos provided from the trip?

Yes, photos are included as part of your booking.

What’s included

Your day includes shuttle pickup from Wanaka, all packrafting equipment (wetsuits, booties, spray jackets, helmets), safety briefing with your local guide, photos taken along the way, plus a riverside picnic lunch and snacks before returning in the afternoon.