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New Zealand Adventure River Valley Safety and FAQ's
River Valley offers a number of activities with a degree of risk. We encourage you to read this section of this site in order that you choose an activity that is appropriate for you.
We would also like you to understand that participation in our activities does involve risk, and that River Valley cannot be held responsible for personal injury or for equipment lost or damaged while participating in these activities.
River Valley reserves the right to screen passengers, and cancel or amend trips due to river or weather conditions, or lack of numbers.
What training do our guides have?
River Valley only employ guides who have been assessed and registered with Sports Fitness Recreation Industry Training Organisation (SFRITO), and the New Zealand Rafting Association.
Many of our guides also have international guiding experience, not to mention many seasons at home. All guides are trained in First Aid and CPR.
In addition, guides carry out on site regular scenario and skill training.
How do I know River Valley is a reputable company?
River Activities
River Valley has been rafting on the Rangitikei River since 1982. We are fully audited by the Maritime Safety Authority, and undergo an annual review of company policies, practices and operations. In addition River Valley was awarded the Westpac Small Tourism Business Operator Award for 2004. This award recognised the overall excellence of the River Valley experience and operation, and the fact that it is in fact world class.
River Valley's 2008 Maritime New Zealand audit was carried out on the 26th March.
River Valley Rafting is a Qualmark Endorsed Visitor Activity. This a national mark of quality for adventure operators within New Zealand. For further information on Qualmarks, click here.
Horse Trekking
River Valley Stables carry's on the traditions of River Valley Horse Treks. River Valley has been involved with horse trekking since 1988, with many thousands of people having enjoyed the countryside of the northern Rangitikei District and often their first experience on a horse. River Valley Stables is a Qualmark Endorsed Visitor Activity.
Who can take part in our Activities?
River Activities
We have an activity for almost everybody. Our grade 2 Scenic/eco Rafting Trips are ideal for families, the less adventurous, and those wanting a slower paced interaction with nature. Our Grade 5 White Water Rafting trip is suitable for people aged 13 years and over, who have a reasonable level of fitness, and a sense of adventure.
Horse Trekking
River Valley Horse adventures are not suitable for children younger than 12 years old. Children younger than 12 years may be able to get a horse experience by prior arrangement. Please contact us.
Can my weight, body size or ability be an issue on trips?
Rafting
Our Grade 5 trip in particular does have restrictions on who can partake. This is a demanding trip. Basically if you cannot comfortably fit the gear, then you cannot take part. This is for both your safety, and other people on the trip. Maximum gear size is wetsuit size 7.
Scenic rafting trips are more flexible with a range of other comfortable river gear available meaning that wetsuits are not essential.
Horse Trekking
We do a have a range of horses available for most riding abilities, but to enhance your riding experience, please do inform our reception staff of your approximate weight and riding ability when booking. There is a weight limit which is 110kg.
What if I have a health problem?
If you have a health condition such as diabetes, epilepsy, pregnancy, heart condition, asthma, etc, please advise us before trip departure. It is your responsibility to make sure we are aware of your condition, that you are fit enough for the activity, and that you have appropriate medication with you.
What is our policy regarding drugs and alcohol?
River Valley reserves the right to refuse participation in our activities to anyone suspected of consuming alcoholic beverages or illegal drugs before or during any trip. In addition River valley is committed to operating a drug free workplace.
What do the different river grades mean?
Have a look at the International River Classification system page on this site that details the meaning of each grade of rapid.
When to go?
New Zealand has a temperate climate. Where River Valley is situated, we have 4 distinct seasons, though as with much of this country, weather conditions can change rapidly - 4 seasons in one day
Rafting
If rafting, expect higher flows in the winter and spring, and more technical steeper rafting in the summer and autumn.
Horse Trekking
Spring - lambs, daffodils, fresh green grass
Summer - warm days, picnics, sunburn
Autumn - clear air, autumn colours, Stags roaring
Winter - Snow clad ranges and mountain
What to bring?
The most important thing to bring is a keen fun attitude.
River Activities
If you are rafting, a towel and your swim suit are all you need. We cannot guarantee the safety of cameras or video equipment on the river.
Horse Trekking
If you are Horse Trekking, then long pants, sturdy foot wear and a camera are important.
What does River Valley provide?
River Valley prides itself on supplying quality customer equipment.
River Activities
Depending on the season, when you go on the river you are supplied with neoprene boots, neoprene socks, 5mm wetsuits, polar fleece tops, paddle jackets, polypropylene skull caps, lifejackets, helmets, and on especially cold days, neoprene mittens. All our rafts are self bailing, and regularly updated. On most white water trips there is also a photographer who captures those unforgettable moments.
Horse Trekking
Horse Trekkers are supplied with helmets, riding boots, chaps, good horses, stock and western saddles, and on wet or cooler days, long oilskin riding coats, and extra fleece top and gloves.
What do I need for Multi-day Trips?
When you book, you will be sent a list of items to bring.
No question too silly
And here is the silly question section...occasionally we are asked questions that we feel we really should share with you. We have not printed any answers, we will let you make up your own!
- Do the rocks in the river go all the way to the bottom?
- If I fall in, how long do I have to hold my breath?
- Does the river go in a circle?
- Do we go up or down the river?
- Will I get wet if I go rafting?
- Do you still go rafting if it's raining?
- Where are the rails for the raft to go on?
Still got questions? Give us a ring on +64 6 3881444 or email us here.
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