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Helicopter into the upper Ngaruroro and raft through gorges, waterfalls, and Kaweka forest on a customizable 2–5 day Grade 3 expedition. Expect trout fishing, river camps, and remote scenery accessible only by air and raft.
Helicopter into the upper Ngaruroro and raft through gorges, waterfalls, and Kaweka forest on a customizable 2–5 day Grade 3 expedition. Expect trout fishing, river camps, and remote scenery accessible only by air and raft.
Book with Mohaka Rafting
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Mohaka Rafting · Te Pōhue, Hawke's Bay Region
Upper Ngaruroro – Grade 3 takes you into a part of New Zealand few travelers see: the Ngaruroro River corridor in the Hawke's Bay Region, accessed from our base on State Highway 5 at Te Pōhue. You fly in by helicopter, step onto clear river water, and let guides from Mohaka Rafting lead a multi-day expedition through tight gorges, tumbling waterfalls, and open, high-range valleys.
The trip is built around flow: spring rises (October–December) unlock trout runs and punchier rapids, while lower flows make for long drift days and easy swimming. Camps sit on river benches beneath native bush; mornings begin with steam from breakfast pots and the click of waders as anglers check trout runs that are only reachable by raft. Guides set a gentle rhythm—late starts, picnic lunches, and time to fish, walk, or simply sit under a waterfall and drink fresh, cold water straight from the cascade.
Geography defines the trip. The Ngaruroro carves through steep-walled gorges, then opens into the Kaweka forest and higher ranges where rock folds and river terraces change the scene from enclosed canyon to sweeping valley. You'll pass grade-3 rapids that are technical enough to feel lively but manageable for competent paddlers and anyone 12 and up. Expect clear, cold river water, gravel bars for camps, pockets of native beech and regenerating kanuka, and the chance to see freshwater trout—introduced species that thrive here and draw anglers from across the region.
Itinerary highlights include a helicopter lift from the Hawke's Bay road corridor into remote headwaters, three to five days of downstream rafting between helicopter drop-off and a vehicle pickup at Kuripapango, and the flexibility to customize each day—more fishing, more walking, or longer floats if you prefer. The operator meets groups at the base on State Highway 5 to review equipment and safety; note age limits (12+) and chest/weight restrictions apply.
Why this trip stands out: the combination of aerial access and raft-only river sections makes this a true wilderness corridor—you leave roads behind on the first day and don't see them again until the final vehicle return. The Kaweka ranges and Ngaruroro river feel remote but thoughtfully supported by experienced guides who can tailor pace and activities to your group. For anyone wanting a wilderness river experience with trout, waterfalls, and helicopter access in Hawke's Bay, Upper Ngaruroro delivers a singular, customizable escape.
Guides emphasize safety and low-impact camping; camps are carried in on rafts and all waste is packed out. Expect to carry a daypack, wear a PFD, and bring waterproof camera protection. Book early through the provided referral link to lock spring flows when trout fishing and higher water make the river most rewarding.
Minimum age is 12; unaccompanied minors are not permitted and every group must include at least one participant aged 18 or over.
Yes — the itinerary includes a helicopter lift into the river headwaters as part of the expedition.
You must comply with New Zealand fishing regulations; check with the operator about licensing requirements and they can advise before you fish.
Very dependent — spring flows (Oct–Dec) provide the best trout fishing and more challenging rapids; book early to secure dates that match desired flow levels.
There are chest/weight limitations and other safety restrictions; the operator enforces minimum and maximum limits—confirm specifics with Mohaka Rafting when booking.
Inclusions vary by booking; the operator meets groups at the base on State Highway 5 to review gear and explain what is provided—contact them via the referral link to confirm details.
Mohaka Rafting operates from Wairoa in New Zealand’s Hawke’s Bay Region, offering river adventures across the Mohaka and Ngaruroro catchments. The company runs a range of guided rafting experiences from gentle Grade 2 family floats to adrenaline-packed Grade 4/5 runs, with options for half-day, full-day, multi-day, and cruise-ship transfer packages. Signature trips include full-day Mohaka River Grade 3 journeys through native backcountry with opportunities to spot rare Blue Ducks, the full-day Grade 4/5 canyon run featuring 200‑metre gorge walls, and a half-day Grade 2 scenic float suited to first-time rafters and families. For remote access and added spectacular views, some itineraries include helicopter or fixed-wing transfers over the Kaweka Mountains and hot spring country, plus a flexible three-day Upper Mohaka program that combines rafting with swimming, fishing and wilderness relaxation. The operator also offers an Upper Ngaruroro helicopter-in trip into pristine gorges and a Lower Ngaruroro Gorge experience that includes waterfall drinking stops and overnight camping in Kaweka Forest Park. Cruise ship passengers can book a gentle Grade 2 river raft with scenic bus transfers and a light lunch before returning to port. Trip summaries emphasize swimming, scenic views, wildlife sightings, optional fishing, and opportunities to camp or relax in hot springs. All information on trips, logistics and booking is available through the Adventure Collective listing and the operator’s booking channels. Booking pages list exact departure points, durations, equipment provided and suitability guidelines for each trip. Safety briefings and trip itineraries are outlined before departure. Local contact details are published.
Book with Mohaka Rafting
