TE PŌHUE RAFTING FIELD GUIDE
Into the Gorge: Mohaka River Grade 4/5 — Full‑Day Whitewater Through 200 m Canyons
A full‑day (8.5–9h) wilderness rafting run on the Mohaka River through technical Grade 4/5 rapids and towering 200 m canyons; this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
Into the Gorge: Mohaka River Grade 4/5 — Full‑Day Whitewater Through 200 m Canyons.
Tackle technical Grade 4/5 whitewater on a full‑day wilderness trip down the Mohaka River from Te Pōhue. The run threads through some of the North Island’s most dramatic 200‑metre canyons and requires active paddling, attention to tricky channels and the fitness to manage demanding rapids. For many paddlers this stretch — framed by towering gorge walls and powerful hydraulics — ranks among New Zealand’s best whitewater experiences.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Technical Grade 4/5 Rapids
A demanding Grade 4/5 run that asks for strong, coordinated paddling and attentive crews throughout the day.
200 m High Canyons
Stunning 200 m high canyon walls frame long stretches of the river, providing dramatic scenery for the full‑day wilderness run.
Full‑Day Wilderness Experience with Photos and Gear
This is a full‑day wilderness trip with photos included and all rafting gear supplied by the operator.
What the day feels like
What the Run Feels Like
Expect a long, technical day of river running that demands active paddling and close teamwork. The run contains challenging rapids and sections where crews must read channels carefully to avoid rocks; at higher flows many features become powerful waves and hydraulics, and parts of the route pass through dramatic, less‑traveled gorges.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who it doesn’t.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a full‑day trip; total outing time is about 8.5 to 9 hours with roughly five hours spent on the water.
Shuttles to and from the river are run in the operator's vans; check the online booking system for start times.
All rafting gear is supplied by the operator and photos are included with the trip.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip?
The full outing runs about 8.5 to 9 hours in total, with roughly five hours on the water.
What time do we need to be there?
Start times vary — check the operator's online booking system for the confirmed start time for your booking.
Is there a minimum group size to run the trip?
Yes — for safety the operator requires a minimum of six people to run the Grade 4/5 trip; if you have fewer than six contact the operator to arrange or join other bookings.
Are there age or supervision rules for minors?
Unaccompanied minors are not permitted; every group must have at least one participant aged 18 or over.
Are there medical, swim or experience requirements?
Participants must all be confident swimmers; it is strongly recommended that groups have prior rafting experience at Grade 3 level or higher.
Are there clothing or gear requirements?
All rafting gear is supplied by the operator; check trip notes but expect that protective and flotation equipment will be provided.
Are there size or weight limits?
Yes — there is a minimum weight of 23 kg and a minimum chest of 61 cm; maximum chest size is 132 cm.
Can I drink alcohol before or during the trip?
No — alcohol consumption prior to or during the trip is not permitted.