One Day Heli-Rafting

Perth and Whataroa Rivers, West Coast, New Zealand

Heli-Rafting in New Zealand introduces you to the West Coast's world-renowned white water, known not only for the quality of the water but for its untouched scenery and dynamic landscapes. Picture yourself drifting through quiet stretches of deep blue pools, surrounded by house sized boulders and dense native bush nestled beneath the Southern Alps. As well as enjoying a truly awe-inspiring Heli-Rafting New Zealand experience, immersing yourself in the scenery and peacefulness of these places is a large part of the journey we share with you.

The Perth and Whataroa Rivers are two separate river trips located near the township of Whataroa, on New Zealand's rugged West Coast. The remoteness of the river valleys means that access to the top of the rivers is by helicopter. You may raft a single river as a one-day wilderness trip or choose both rivers in a weekend or extended itinerary.

Both rivers lie in the secluded wilderness of the South West New Zealand World Heritage Area and each river has its own unique character - the Perth is snow fed, which contrasts with the milky hues of the Whataroa, which flows from alpine glaciers high above. After descending the rugged West Coast valleys, the Perth converges with the Whataroa, eventually flowing into the Tasman Sea.

Our trips Heli-Rafting on the West Coast of New Zealand have been designed for people looking for excitement away from large groups, while experiencing some of New Zealand's best scenery and white water. You are most welcome to join one of our scheduled departures, or if travelling in a group we can organise trips for dates that are convenient for you.

Getting Here

Accommodation

The hospitality of 'Coasters' is truly distinctive and no trip to the West Coast is complete without meeting with local characters (often descendants of the original pioneers) at a genuine West Coast pub or hotel. We can also arrange your accommodation on the West Coast, or this may be left up to you. We are happy to provide recommendations for your stay.

The Perth River (Grade 4-5)

This is as good as it gets for white water Heli-Rafting action in New Zealand. The Perth is a Grade 5 river trip with longer white water rapids and two gorges. The first stretch of the Perth is gentle, allowing you to take in the beautiful surroundings of native temperate rain forest and dramatic mountain terrain.

We relax for lunch at spots carefully chosen for stunning vistas. Your meal includes cuisine that you may be surprised to find in the outdoors. The river then picks up the pace, shifting between steep waterfall type drops created by huge rocks and deep blue pools, then moving into deep gorges characteristic of the West Coast.

Both main Gorges include about an hour of rocky chutes and drops. Being in the heart of West Coast rain forest, many of these rapids must be scouted and rafted one boat at a time with a safety set up. This does take a little time however this is real adventure Heli-Rafting New Zealand style, and these rivers are not rafted on a daily basis. The Perth eventually converges into the Whataroa River, with big waves for some fun en-route to the take-out.

Ability

Options

		The Perth River
		Includes helicopter flight, lunch and rafting.
		Double Trouble
		Perth and Whataroa - inclusive of flights, lunch and rafting (2 consecutive days rafting).

The Whataroa River (Grade 3-4)

The Whataroa River is Grade 3-4 and contains exciting, shorter rapids with three stunning gorges. The first hour of this trip is easy Grade 2 and 3 rock garden rapids, requiring good team-work for manoeuvring around the rocks. The scenery is astounding, with a grand backdrop of snow-capped peaks and glaciers flowing down to the untouched green landscapes of the forest.

Lunch is prepared at scenic spots by your guides, whose creative outdoor cuisine is sure to bring a smile and a full belly. Soon after the main gorges the Whataroa and Perth rivers merge and become the Whataroa River. The river section from here features large standing waves for a fun ride at the culmination of your Heli-Rafting journey on the West Coast of New Zealand.

Ability

This trip is suitable for people with a reasonable standard of fitness who enjoy the outdoors and are confident in water.

		The Whataroa River
		Includes helicopter flight, lunch and rafting.
		Double Trouble
		Whataroa and Perth - inclusive of flights, lunch and rafting (2 consecutive days rafting).

Area Map

The West Coast is a geologically young and constantly changing landscape that has challenged its settlers and visitors alike for more than a century. The nature of these places and our adventures means that you need to be reasonably fit, confident in water and prepared for a challenge.

All trips are subject to weather and river conditions for safety reasons. Plane and helicopter flights are weather dependent and decisions for flying conditions are made on the day.

All guides are fully licensed professionals, chosen for their skill, knowledge and experience. The quality of your trip is guaranteed by the small group size (max 15) and personal service provided by Hidden Valleys.

Every time we return from these trips, we carry a new a sense of achievement, inspiration and wonder. We also warn you, you may feel compelled to return!

Safety Procedures

• At the raft put-in point we will give you full safety briefings and practical instruction suitable to the river.
• We take at least two rafts on any one departure.
• A Safety Kayaker accompanies each departure.
• Hidden Valleys' guides are professionally qualified and experienced.
• Hidden Valleys NZ Ltd is a registered New Zealand Rafting Association company and is certified under New Zealand Maritime Safety Law as an approved rafting operator.

Prices

Perth River - $480.00pp
Perth Walk - $400.00pp
Whataroa Heli in - $450pp
Whataroa Walk in - $350pp

Hidden Valleys New Zealand Limited, Manuka Hill, 228 Blandswood Road, Peel Forest, South Canterbury, New Zealand.

Phone or fax: + 64 3 696 3560, Email: southy@hiddenvalleys.co.nz