As Kaitiaki of the earth for future generations. Surrounded by nature, Murchison is situated in the southern corner of the Kahurangi National Park, one of New Zealand’s newest national Parks (opened 1996). The Buller River source, comes from Lake Rotoiti in the Nelson Lakes National Park. From the river’s beginning in Nelson Lakes, it flows freely all the way to Westport, where the Buller meets the Tasman Sea. On its way the Buller River passes through New Zealand farmland, native bush and the beautiful bush clad Upper and Lower Buller Gorges, thus giving us unsurpassed scenery during our river journeys.
With the majority of our trips running on the outskirts or through Kahurangi National Park, we feel the need to protect and have as little impact on the environment as possible.
Our goal is to offer trips that enable people from all walks of life to discover the adventure and art of river travel in a safe and enjoyable atmosphere. To promote the appreciation and conservation of the wild rivers which make the Nelson, Buller and West Coast regions unique.
“Frequently asked questions”
No. This is also true for our grade 5 trips, however a basic level of fitness and swimming ability is required for grade 5.
Togs or undies, and a smile ;-)
Meet at our base in Murchison at 9:30am for the morning trip and 1:30pm for the afternoon trip. For our winter hours give us a call on 0800 RIVERS (03 5239 899).
During the height of our summer season we do tend to book up quickly, so best to book as soon as you can.
You can click a book now button or send a booking request from our website. Other options are email us at
Grade 2 = Moving water with open rapids and waves
Grade 3 = Medium sized rapids with some required manoeuvers
Grade 4 = Bigger rapids and must-make moves
Grade 5 = Highest and toughest grade allowed to raft commercially. Hard, technical and extreme rafting
We’re afraid not. Rafting is an adventure activity and involves an element of risk.
Visit our terms and conditions page for more details.
New Zealand rafting at it’s best, in the whitewater capital of Murchison, we have access to rivers that cover all grades of river adventures featuring the famous Buller River. From gentle Family Rafting for the young adventurers to Buller Gorge Rafting we have tours designed for all. Enjoy the freedom of traveling on the river in a fun loving and safe environment.
Escape within these world-class wilderness backdrops as you drift with us on an expedition through paradise. We have a wide range of rafting trips, from an overnight family rafting trip on the Maruia River for a taste for the kids, long 5 day river journeys on the Clarence River to class 4-5 heli-rafting for the people wanting the Ultimate adventure on the Mokihinui and Karamea Rivers!
We are open to run rafting trips daily in the Summer months starting with the October school holidays through to the end of April. However we can run trips on the odd occasion through the winter depending on weather and availability of the guides so bookings are essential!