White Water Rafting Rivers of the World - New Zealand
Shotover River, New Zealand
The Shotover River is positioned in the Otago zone, located in the South Isalnd of New Zealand. Measuring about 60 km, this fast-flowing water body offers numerous rapids in its entire river course. After initiating from its source, the river meanders through the enchanting Southern Alps and passes along the magnetic Skippers canyon. Completing a long journey, the river finally empties into the Kawarau River.
Owing to its immense volume and high-rising waves, the river is quite famous as a rafting destination. Interestingly, with Class III and IV rapids, the Shotover River, (which also boats of an intriguing gold-rush history) attracts tourists all over the world. In general, the rafting trip initiates at the Steep Creek, which is noted for its serene waters. Then the fantastic river moves towards the Lower Canyon.
Slowing down while passing through the narrow gorges, the waters get suddenly wild and the Shotover River brings in amazing rapids from hereon. Subsequently, the untamed river offers its rafters various remarkable rapids, which include “Rock Garden”, “Sharks Fin”, “Toilet”, “Pinball”, “Jaws” and “Sequel”. Moving further in its course, the river makes way through the splendid darkness of the Oxenbridge Tunnel (170 meters long) and moves towards the thrilling “Cascade” Rapid. The Cascade Rapid happens to cap off the entire rafting journey. Furthermore, teamed with the well-known rapids, comes the wonderful scenery by the riverside.
Worth mentioning, other than trying stimulating rafting voyage on the waters of the enticing river, you can camp along the riverside as well. Bungee Jumping in the upper reaches of the river is another adventuours sport of this zone. Thus, the Shotover River, owing to its surrounding rugged terrains, pristine and wild waters and breathtaking natural scenery, happens to be quite a challenging whitewater rafting river to explore!