Everything you need to know before joining an Inland Adventures rafting trip - safety, bookings, and what to expect.
What is rafting?
If you love the outdoors and want to do something special for your next holiday or vacation, then perhaps a rafting trip would be a good idea. White water rafting - or simply “rafting” - is a popular outdoor activity using an inflatable raft to navigate a body of water.
Rapids are classified based on water conditions, indicating how intense and difficult a particular river section may be. Like any outdoor sport, rafting can be dangerous if precautions are not taken - which is why it’s always undertaken in groups under the supervision of an experienced guide.
What safety standards does Inland Adventures follow?
At Inland Adventures your safety is our number one priority. Our company complies with WorkSafe Adventure Activities Regulations and is audited annually by AdventureMark.
The New Zealand rafting industry is respected as a world leader in rafting safety, and we’re proud to uphold that. Our guides are qualified under the New Zealand Rafting Association and attend biannual white water rescue workshops to maintain best practice.
Is rafting risky?
Rafting is an adventure activity with a degree of risk. These risks increase with the grade of rapids - meaning accidents are less likely on Grade 2–3 rivers than on Grade 3–4 rivers. We take pride in our safety record and do everything possible to minimise risk.
Before rafting, you’ll be asked to read and sign this acknowledgement:
“I understand that participation in rafting activities will expose me to risks including drowning, becoming entrapped, and collisions with other participants, rocks, and rafting equipment. The risks increase with the grade of rapids, and the commercial rafting operator cannot guarantee my safety on the river or while travelling to and from the river.”
How environmentally friendly is rafting?
At Inland Adventures, the wilderness places we visit are our workplace - and we have huge respect for them. We operate under a Department of Conservation concession that allows us to take guests into our local river environments responsibly. We follow strict environmental guidelines to preserve these pristine areas for future generations.
Is rafting for me?
Rafting is perfect for exploring remote landscapes that are often inaccessible by road - ideal for nature lovers. It’s one of the most environmentally friendly adventure activities, requiring no depletion of natural resources.
- No experience necessary - first-timers are welcome.
- Great for bonding with friends, family, or colleagues.
- More affordable than many extreme sports.
Do I need to have rafted before?
No - a comprehensive safety and paddle briefing is provided at the start of every rafting trip.
How do I book a trip?
Booking and enquiries all go through our enquiry form - send us a few details and we’ll reply by email to confirm availability and the next steps.
It helps to tell us:
- Your contact information
- The trip(s) you’re interested in
- Number of people in your group
- Preferred dates
Do I need to book ahead?
For multi-day trips, booking ahead is essential. For day trips, it’s not required but recommended - places are limited on each trip.
What medical conditions might exclude me from rafting?
The following conditions may prevent you from rafting with us:
- Pregnancy
- Uncontrolled epilepsy
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Heart disease
- Stroke
Please share any medical conditions with us in advance so we can ensure your comfort and safety.
What happens if a trip is cancelled?
If we cancel a trip - usually because of river or weather conditions - you receive a 100% refund, or you can move to another date at no charge.
If you cancel: more than 72 hours before departure, a 10% fee of the trip fare applies. Within 72 hours of departure, or for no-shows, the full fare applies.
Full terms, including date changes and trips cut short, are on our cancellation and refund policy.
How do you protect my privacy when booking?
We collect information such as your name, contact details, age, dietary and medical information, and billing details solely for trip logistics and safety. We don't sell or trade it.
You have the right to request or correct your data at any time - just get in touch and we'll help.
Our privacy policy sets out what we collect, who sees it, and how long we keep it.
What does the river section classification mean?
- Grade 1: Flat moving water.
- Grade 2: Small, fun rapids. Suitable for family outings.
- Grade 3: Medium-sized rapids. Entertaining white water.
- Grade 4: Large rapids that get the heart pumping.
- Grade 5: Extreme white water - not for the faint-hearted!
Do you cater for dietary requirements?
Yes, absolutely - please let us know at the time of booking so we can plan and prepare your meals accordingly.
