Bike Tours Camerons

The Taramakau River forms the boundary between Grey and Westland Districts on the West Coast and flanks the state highway coming from Christchurch via Arthur's Pass and the West Coast Wilderness Trail between Camerons and Kumara. This location makes it a true landmark of the area and easily accessible from both Greymouth and Hokitika as well as being on-the-way for anyone driving to the coast via Arthur's Pass.


What most people don't see from the road and cycle trail is the stunning landscape this river passes through on it's final stretch before reaching the ocean. Towering cliffs and lush rain-forest border the river as it flows down with some easy Class I-II- rapids to negotiate.


What's it like?
Our trip will begin and end at Camerons Road Bridge. From here we will shuttle you up to the start of the river trip just outside Kumara. Once we arrive at the river we will change into wetsuits and paddle gear and inflate the boats. A safety briefing from your guides and some instruction on how to paddle your packraft will lead into the descent of the Taramakau River. On the way down you will experience fun Class I-II rapids with gravel bars, small wave chains and some river features such as trees 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 whilst the whitewater is mellow there is always the possibility of the packrafts capsizing and you swimming in the river so it is important you are comfortable in water. After about 2hrs on the water we finish back at Camerons bridge. A short walk back to the car and it's time to get dry and changed and head off to your next adventure.
Please note we generally provide tandem (double) packrafts for this trip as there is quite a bit of flatter water and paddling can be more challenging if the wind picks up. If you would prefer a single (solo) packraft for the trip please get in touch.
Fitness Requirements
Age: 8+
Weight limit: 135 kgs due to equipment
Able to exercise at a moderate intensity for ~2hrs
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
- Snacks
What you need to bring:
- Swimsuit for under wetsuit
- A warm layer (fleece or synthetic puffy jacket)
- Waterbottle ~2l capacity
- Towel for changing after
Rough Timings:
9am - Meet at Camerons Road Bridge. Change into wetsuits.
9:30am - Drive to Kumara and inflate packrafts. Receive safety briefing.
10am - Launch Taramakau River. Stop along way for snack break.
~12pm - Finish at Camerons Road Bridge. Change into dry clothes


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.