River to Road Adventure

Difficulty

Easy

Duration

8h

Group size

2-10 tourists,
over 10 y.o.

You drift through a deep canyon, cliffs rising on both sides, moving over gentle rapids that keep the ride light and fun. Later, the day shifts. From water to land, you pick up your bike and follow quiet back roads, crossing the Mokai Canyon bridge and riding through open countryside, with long stretches where it feels like no one else is around.

It’s a full day outdoors, simple and well balanced — rafting, riding, and time to stop along the way. If you feel like moving through a landscape instead of just looking at it, join us and follow the river!

Janey H. is the provider of this trip

5.0 3 reviews

The provider speaks: English

Our stables are based in a beautiful and remote setting, beside the Rangitikei River, on the North Island of New Zealand. We have a variety of exciting horse riding and other adventures and a range of accommodation for you to rest after your day’s adventure!

Tour highlights

River First, Road Later

Start on the water, finish on land — a day that naturally shifts pace

Ride Across Mokai Canyon

Cycle over a high bridge with wide views into the canyon below

27 km Back Through Open Land

Quiet roads, long views, and space to stop whenever you want

Route details

The day begins in the morning with a rafting trip down a scenic section of the Rangitikei River. The route is about 13 km long and includes more than 30 easy rapids, suitable for all ages. The river flows through a canyon with high cliffs and wide views. Depending on conditions, you will stop for a picnic lunch either along the river or at the rafting finish point.

For those who want more activity, there is an option to use inflatable kayaks on some of the easier rapids, while others can stay in the raft for a more relaxed ride.

After finishing the rafting section, you switch to an e-bike and begin a 27 km ride back along quiet rural roads. The route includes both gravel and sealed sections and passes over Mokai Canyon Bridge, near the former site of a bungy jump and flying fox. The cycling takes around 2 hours, with plenty of time to stop along the way.

This is a full-day experience, with around 3.5–4 hours on the river and additional time for the ride.

Difficulty

Easy

Minimal physical activity. Suitable for everyone regardless of fitness and age

Tour provider's comments

The roads winding around Rangitikei District of the North Island are classic backcountry routes, rated at Grade 2-3. You'll share these peaceful roads with occasional vehicles, though you'll likely enjoy long stretches of quiet solitude.

Conditions

Included

wetsuit or fleece lined paddle pants;
helmet, lifejacket;
neoprene booties;
fleece top;
paddle jacket;
a picnic lunch;
e-bike;
bike helmet and high vis vest;
route map.

Extras

flight tickets;
any other personal expenses.

It's important to know

Total time on the actual river depends on flow, but is generally between 3 and a half to 4 hours. Allow time to enjoy your picnic lunch. Then, the bike ride is 27kms, we suggest allowing 2 hours – no rush! Please allow for a full day, with a meeting time of 9.00 am at our place.