No. This is also true for our grade 5 trips, however a basic level of fitness and swimming ability is required for grade 5.

Every river trip is an exhilarating experience, and your safety and enjoyment are our main priorities. Though every effort will be made to ensure your trip is as safe as possible, participants need to be aware that river trips are an adventure activity that involve an element of risk and that Ultimate Descents Aotearoa cannot absolutely guarantee their safety.

Before coming rafting everyone in your group needs to know that they are taking part in an outdoor adventure activity involving risk within the natural river environment which includes swift water, rocks and other natural hazards. Rafting equipment provided by the company for this tour also could be hazardous if not used correctly. All these hazards have the ability to create collisions with other participants, rocks, and rafting equipment or even drowning, becoming entrapped that may cause death. The risks increases with the grade of rapids.

Togs or undies, and a smile ;-)

Meet at our base in Murchison at 9:30am for the morning trip and 1:30pm for the afternoon trip. For our winter hours give us a call on 0800 RIVERS (03 5239 899).

During the height of our summer season we do tend to book up quickly, so best to book as soon as you can.

You can click a book now button or send a booking request from our website. Other options are email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or call us direct on 0800 RIVERS (nz freephone) or 03 5239 899. We will be happy to answer any queries or concerns you may have.

Grade 2 = Moving water with open rapids and waves

Grade 3 = Medium sized rapids with some required manoeuvers

Grade 4 = Bigger rapids and must-make moves

Grade 5 = Highest and toughest grade allowed to raft commercially. Hard, technical and extreme rafting

We’re afraid not. Rafting is an adventure activity and involves an element of risk.