Kayaking and Packrafting in New Zealand
RallyCrew’s Paddling Passport Speaker Series
New Zealand has long been a bucket-list destination for whitewater paddlers. From lap-able roadside runs to remote alpine rivers, the country offers an unmatched mix of access, variety, and adventure. But with maritime weather, complex catchments, and regional differences, local knowledge is key to planning a successful paddling trip.
In this, the inaugural Paddling Passport session, RallyCrew connects with New Zealand-based experts Jess Matheson of New Zealand Kayak School and Huw Miles of Packrafting Queenstown to share practical beta on where to paddle, what to pack, and how to plan a trip to one of the world’s most iconic whitewater destinations. Whether you’re planning your next adventure or exploring paddling cultures virtually, this session brings the rivers and communities of New Zealand straight to you.
Watch the NZ Paddling Passport Session
This Paddling Passport session offers an informal and informative, local perspective on kayaking and packrafting in New Zealand, straight from the mouths of the paddlers who live and work there.
Flip Through the Ultimate New Zealand Paddling Guide
Explore insider knowledge on kayaking and packrafting in New Zealand with this exclusive Paddling Passport slide deck, curated by local experts Jess Matheson and Huw Miles.
This deck is the first time that river beta, travel tricks, and trip planning strategies for New Zealand have been compiled so comprehensively.
From must-paddle rivers to packing tips and travel hacks, every slide is packed with actionable insights to help paddlers plan smarter trips and explore New Zealand with confidence. Even if you’re just virtually exploring, this deck gives you a deep dive into New Zealand’s paddling culture, river regions, the sights, smells and sounds, and expert advice, all in one place.
Meet the Local Experts
Jess Matheson is a steep creeker and co-owner and instructor at the New Zealand Kayak School, based in Murchison. With years of experience teaching and paddling throughout the country (and the world), Jess brings deep insight into New Zealand’s rivers, seasons, and paddling culture. She also provides tips on what to eat, and great off-day activities!
Huw Miles is the founder of Packrafting Queenstown and a leading voice in the New Zealand packrafting scene. His experience spans high altitude hiking, backcountry travel, and vast knowledge-base of multi-day packrafting missions across the country. He’ll tell you what New Zealand smells and feels like, and much more!
Where to Paddle in New Zealand
New Zealand offers paddling options for a huge range of paddling styles and abilities. In this session, we explore:
Regions known for high-density whitewater
Rivers suited to kayaking versus packrafting
How to choose runs based on season and recent rainfall
The balance between roadside classics and remote adventures
This section highlights themes and decision-making strategies rather than listing every river. For an overview of all Paddling Passports, see the Whitewater Paddling Travel Guide.
What to Pack for Kayaking or Packrafting in New Zealand
Packing for paddling in New Zealand means preparing for variable weather and changing river conditions. Tips from this session include:
Essential safety and repair gear
What and where to rent, buy or borrow and what to bring
Clothing and layering for unique New Zealand conditions
How to Plan a Paddling Trip to New Zealand
Good planning makes all the difference when hunting whitewater anywhere, but especially in a place as varied as New Zealand. Topics covered in this session include:
Understanding New Zealand’s geography and catchments
Travel logistics and getting around the country
Access considerations and paddling ethics
For a full overview of planning whitewater paddling trips, visit RallyCrew’s Whitewater Paddling Travel Guide.
Why New Zealand Belongs on Your Paddling Travel List
New Zealand combines world-class whitewater with a strong paddling culture and a deep respect for the outdoors. The diversity of rivers and landscapes has made it a popular destination (or a second home), which many paddlers return to again and again.
Wherever your next paddling trip takes you, RallyCrew is here to help you plan smarter and make the most of every stroke.
See you in the eddy.
Explore More Paddling Travel Resources
Other Paddling Passport destination posts (coming soon)
What’s RallyCrew
Like a giant online eddy, RallyCrew is your digital home for whitewater boating: find fellow boaters, plan trips, and discover courses and other events—all in one place.
