Trail Trekking Hokitika

What's it like?
Our trip will begin and end at Hokitika Gorge Carpark where it is possible to complete the Hokitika Gorge Walkway before or after the tour. From here we will give you your gear and check the fit of helmets before beginning the walk-in. The walk is about 2hrs in length and consists of a 4wd track for most the 6km distance with some optional riverbed travel at the end that is slightly more challenging due to the uneven surface. Once we arrive at the river we will have a break and enjoy an energy-boosting lunch by the water before changing into wetsuits and paddle gear and inflating the boats. A safety briefing from your guides and some instruction on how to paddle your personal craft will lead into the descent of the Hokitika River. On the way down you will experience fun Class II rapids with wave chains and some river features such as holes and rocks. It may be necessary to walk around (portage) rapids if the river levels or hazards present make it necessary. The scenery is stunning and the whitewater is exciting so make sure you are comfortable on the water as there is the possibility of the packrafts capsizing and you swimming in the river. After about 2hrs on the water we finish with a serene float through the world-famous Hokitika Gorge enjoying the crystal blue water and rippling reflections from the best possible angle! A short walk back to the carpark and it's time to get dry and changed and head off to your next adventure.
Fitness Requirements
Age: 12+
Weight limit: 135 kgs due to equipment
Able to exercise at a moderate intensity for ~5hrs
Comfortable in moving water

Please consult around any medical conditions
What we provide:
- Packraft + Paddle
- Personal Flotation Device (lifejacket)
- Helmet
- Wetsuit and neoprene booties
- Splash jacket
- Backpack
- Snacks
What you need to bring:
- Swimsuit for under wetsuit
- Sturdy shoes or hiking boots and comfortable clothes for the walk in
- A warm layer (fleece or synthetic puffy jacket)
- Rain gear for the hike-in
- Waterbottle ~1l capacity (we can top up on the way)
Rough Timings:
9am - Meet at Hokitika Gorge Carpark and get gear
9:30am - Start hiking 1.5-2hrs up the Whitcombe Valley Track
~11.30am - Change into wetsuit and inflate packrafts. Have a snack
~12-12:30pm - Launch Hokitika River and paddle to Hokitika Gorge
~2:30-4pm - Finish up, get changed and back to cars
Risk Disclosure:
West Coast Packrafting values our clients’ safety and will do our utmost to provide a safe and enjoyable trip. However, packrafting/kayaking is an adventure activity which carries some inherent risks. You will be alone in a packraft/kayak as the guide will be paddling a separate boat and it is likely that you may end up swimming in the rapids either purposefully or accidentally.


The trip you have chosen is on Class II graded rapids which could include regular medium-sized waves, low ledges or drops, easy eddies and gradual bends. There may be obstructions such as rocks or overhanging branches or log jams though these should generally be easy to recognise and avoid. It may be necessary to portage (walk around) a rapid and both portaging and the hike-in may expose you to wet and slippery rocks, steep drop-offs and uneven ground.


A moderate degree of physical fitness is required for this trip and you should be comfortable exercising at gentle pace for ~4hrs. Whilst it is not compulsory to be able to swim this trip is unlikely to be enjoyable if you are nervous in or around moving water.


Participants should be aware that packrafting involves a risk of serious injury or death and that West Coast Packrafting cannot guarantee their safety.