We begin our journey at historic Molesworth station, at the confluence of the Clarence and Acheron rivers. Downstream of this point vehicle access is extremely limited, we use the river has our road and a raft as our vehicle. Everything we need is carried with us, all food, cooking and camping equipment. We will travel from the mountains to the sea, starting at an altitude of 700m and finishing 215 km later at the coast. Experience this remote valley, leave your cell phone behind, and forget about work, there is plenty of time to unwind. Every twist and turn in the river brings a new vista. Along the way experience the open tussock lands of Molesworth Farm Park, three spectacular gorges of twisted rock strata interspersed with open braided river sections, impressive alpine peaks, remote high country stations, amazing geology. Each evening we set up camp beside the river. Every campsite has a different character. Enjoy the company of our knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides, who will not only guide you down the river during the day, but also display their cooking skills around the campfire. We recommend the best time of year to do this trip is spring and summer, this is the time with best water level and also the time to see flowers of common and extremely rare plants, as well as breeding and nesting sites of a variety of birds.

The Clarence at normal water levels is a grade 2 river and when the river is running high there are a couple of grade 3 rapids.

• Grade 2 has regular medium sized waves of less than 1m. The route through the rapids is easy to recognise and generally unobstructed although there may be rocks in the main current or over hanging branches.
• Grade 3 has larger waves of up to 2m. The need to manoeuvre to negotiate the rapid, a passage that may be difficult to recognise from the river.

What does that translate to? The river is easy yet playful, there are times when your participation is needed and there are times when you can relax and take in the magnificent scenery. A full safety briefing is given at the river before we begin our journey. This trip is suitable for anyone of moderate fitness with no rafting experience, (min age 5). Join us on one of our regular departures or put together your own trip. Minimum and maximum numbers apply.

River rafting is an adventure activity with a degree of risk. Participants should be aware that the rafting operator cannot absolutely guarantee their safety.

Clarence River Rafting reserves the right to cancel trips if necessary.

A prefect introduction to rafting and a river environment. Grade two. Allow approx 4-5 hours. We can pick you up in Kaikoura or call in on your way past. We are located on SH1 half an hour north of Kaikoura, one and a half hours from Blenheim, or two hours from the Cook Strait ferry A perfect family trip, even the most hesitant will enjoy this experience. For the more adventurous there is a rock jump and places to swim. We provide all the equipment needed and give a full safety briefing before getting on the water. A light snack is provided along the way. You bring your swimming costume, towel, sunscreen and shoes/sandals to get wet, as well as a thirst for fun and adventure.