Have you ever been white water rafting? My husband and I went on the Tongariro River, New Zealand, to celebrate my 50th birthday. It was amazing. We were feeling brave, so we tackled the No.3 rapids—higher up the river.
I loved:
- The exhilaration
- Unpredictability
- The rivers natural beauty
- Silence—except our screams of course
- Unknown challenge—would we fall out as we rode the waves
- The twists and turns
Our guide told us the river is different everyday. He can never take the rapids for granted. They change constantly and if he isn’t focusing on the rapids, everyone’s life could be in danger—heads and rocks don’t mix well.
The mighty Tongariro River
All eight passengers on our boat were from different countries, so during our quiet times on the river, we were able to learn more about the world.
If ever you get the chance to go white water rafting—take the risk. It will change how you think about life. You have absolutely no control over what happens and it is the best. Handing over trust to the boat’s guide allows you to enjoy the ride and take notice of your surroundings.
Lower Tongariro River
Thanks for the experience!
You’re brave!! White water rafting is not my thrill!! Your guide’s comments confirm why I’m happy to stay away from rapids ;D But I love a quiet paddle, and the silence of the river is wonderful.
The gentle ones lower down the river were very gentle. The silence was amazing, different to anything I had ever heard before. Possibly because the river has it own sounds and there were sheer cliffs on both sides of us.
I can see the beauty in it, but I know I would be so scared to, am thinking about being brave!
Be brave—its worth it. Start on a lower intensity one but I would recommend it. The guide are experienced and have the control. Best fun.
Done it twice, once in France, once in Canada, and loved every minute! Thanks for a great reminder of the experience.
Remembering is fun isn’t it. It always brings a smile to my face.
This sounds amazing. I am not a water duck, nor am I a thrill seeker in the extreme sports way. But I love the views and the desires.
It was amazing.
My husband really wants to do this when we go to New Zealand but I’m a little water phobic. Did anyone fall in at all?
No. You can do it in different level rapids and I would thoroughly recommend it