November 16, 2024

Wairoa River Rafting: 11 Steps to Raft Successfully!

If you’re looking to go to Wairoa River rafting, then you’ll want to make sure that you’re well-prepared! This post will discuss 11 steps that will help make your rafting trip a success. We’ve got you covered, from packing the right gear to staying safe on the river. So read on for tips and advice that will help make your experience unforgettable!

Check the water level.

The first step to a successful Wairoa River rafting adventure is to check the water level. You can do this by visiting the New Zealand Department of Conservation website. The water level should be at least 0.60 meters (two feet) before you attempt to raft down the river.

Choose your vessel

The next step is to choose your vessel wisely. You have two options for rafts, an inflatable raft or a hard-shell kayak. We recommend selecting an inflatable raft if you are new to river rafting. They are more stable and more accessible to manoeuvre than kayaks.

Dress for success

Now that you have chosen your vessel, it’s time to dress for success. Make sure you are wearing clothes that you can get wet, and that will dry quickly. We also recommend wearing closed-toed shoes with a good grip.

Gather your supplies

Now it’s time to gather all of your supplies for your rafting adventure. Some essential items include sunscreen, hats, water, snacks, and first-aid supplies. You should also pack any camping gear you will need if you plan on spending the night on the river bank.

Put on your life jacket.

The next step is to put on your life jacket. This is one of the essential steps in preparing for a successful rafting trip. Make sure the life jacket fits snugly and that all straps are fastened securely.

Launch your raft

Now it’s time to launch your raft into the river. If you are solo rafting, you will need to find a spot where you can enter the water without being swept downstream. Once you are in the water, use your paddle to move away from the shore.

Start paddling

The next step is to start paddling downstream. Again, use strong strokes and try to stay in the middle of the river where the current is not as strong. If you get too close to the shore, you may get caught on rocks or debris.

Navigate around obstacles

As you paddle downstream, you will need to navigate around obstacles in the river. Be on the lookout for rocks, logs, and other debris to damage your raft. If you see an obstacle ahead, paddle around it or portage your raft over it.

Take breaks

As you paddle downstream, make sure to take breaks often. Rafting can be tiring, so it’s important to rest when you need to. Find a calm spot in the river where you can float for a few minutes and catch your breath.

Camp overnight

If you plan to spend more than one day on the river, you will need to camp overnight. Set up your tent on a sandy spot away from the river. Make sure to build a fire and keep it burning all night to ward off any critters.

Exit the river

When you are ready to exit the river, paddle to the shore and find a safe place to disembark; deflate it and pack it up once you are out of the raft. Then, enjoy your well-deserved rest!

So, there you have it! Our top 11 tips for successfully Wairoa River rafting. Follow these steps, and you’re sure to have a fantastic time out on the water. Thanks for reading, and happy crafting!