River Valley

Immaculate vibes from the staff and the river is gorgeous. Had a great time white water rafting. Just note that their only showers are in a roofed outdoor accommodation which adds to the rustic feel.

Absolutely had a blast on the river with River Valley. It was perhaps my favourite experience from our whole trip. It was a total thrill, but I always felt in safe hands with the experienced team. Cannot recommend enough. Such a beautiful stretch of water too.

What an incredible experience! The largest tucked away in the quaint hills of New Zealand. The staff was extremely friendly and helpful, the lodge itself was beautiful, and the river rafting was next level exciting. If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway, or an adrenaline pumping adventure, River Valley is the place for you.

Lovely staff, amazing food! Great facilities including a hot tub

What an amazing stay. Location is really remote. Best you self drive to get there. Final 5km or so on gravel road to location. In a Valley. But what a wonderful place. Out of the city. Wonderful staff. We stayed in a family lodge with 1 King bed and 4 bunk beds + 1 common toilet. All meals on site. Fresh produce. Superb roasted vegetables and dinner was really heartening. We took a rafting trip that lasted 6 hrs from 930am till 330pm. Hazel was our lead. And she led the paddling and manoeuvering out of difficult waters + directed the fun, as well as laid out the lunch picnic, cut the capsicum, provided the spread, and really wowed us with her efforts. All thermal and wet suits provided and highly recommended experience. I rank this as a must go for your northern NZ trip. About 5.5 hrs drive down South from Auckland so you need to plan your trip and journey well.

Professional 5 star Staff and Owner.Rafting - Guides and safety team on point, knowledgeable, experienced, funny, your in safe hands.Food - Chef: outstanding, passionate about food, dishes made with love and it comes through in his cooking, fabulous meals. Supported by a hard working kitchen and bar staff, a pleasant harmonious team.Venue - A little dated but beds and deluxe suites are clean and comfortable. Surroundings are beautiful.Horse riding - calm, quiet horses a credit to their trainer, horses are well loved. Pleasant guides/owner. Farmlands were beautiful. Gentle ride.Spa - excellent spot for a hot soak outside overlooking the river.Admin and reception - professional to deal with. Nothing but praise for you all

Awesome location, awesome staff, awesome food and a great backpacker vibe with it all (with bunk rooms and what not). We unfortunately missed out on the big rapids during rafting because of water levels at the time (mid June) but the rafting was great fun regardless and a good chance to chat to the river guide (my group was with Tom, who told us lots about the lodge history and the river and all that). Made the most of the spa, sauna, freezing cold river water and the amazing fireplace in the centre of the common area.Little bit cold during winter (obviously) but will definitely be back some day, probably during summer to get the grade 5 rapids.

Perfect spot to relax and unwind. But experiencing how amazing the rafting and riding are, I am so happy we didn't miss out! Worth every penny. Highly recommended.

We had a great time rafting with Max! He was clearly extremely experienced and ALWAYS appropriate. The river was fun and exciting but all of the waterfalls Max pointed out were our favourite part! Highly recommend rafting here!!