White Water Rafting on the Rangitata

Another activity we thought the kids would enjoy was white water rafting.  We found a company in Queenstown that specialized in Family Rafting Trips.  However, the rain came & we had to cancel our trip.  After a quick search on the internet, we found a company that offered both hard core and family rafting experiences and it was on our way to Christchurch.  With the large amount of rain that came, the day we went rafting was the first day the company was back up & running.  With the river being fed by glaciers we put on plenty of gear to keep us warm.  After our brief introduction to rafting – how to ‘get down’ when we hit heavy rapids, what happens if you fall out of the boat – Kim was not sure that this was a good idea…..  However, once we got going & Kim realized that the kids were not going to abandon ship, we all had a blast!  Having the tons of rain definitely made for a much more fun experience!! On the family rafting experience the highest grade rapid is 2.  With the rain, we experienced grade 2 rapids with the maximum amount of fun.  With the river running so high we got plenty wet and got our fill of ups and downs.   After the trip we had hot showers and a great BBQ before heading back to Christchurch.

Kayaking

NZ is known for it’s outdoor activities.  Most of those activities fall in the category of ‘extreme sports’.  We found it difficult to find companies that arranged outdoor fun for kids.  But the companies we did find that catered to kids, did an amazing job!  Kayaking was something we thought the whole family would enjoy!  And we did!  Ron was with Jade, Kim with Amanda & Tanner & Justin were together.  Team work was key, as in Tanner & Justin's case.  Arm strength was key for Ron & Kim….& let just say, Kim was exhausted & needed a tow from the guide a few times.  Princess Amanda lounged out while mom rowed away & Jade tried to help dad out but really just made him work more!  

We took a break on a little island. 

The kids had the chance to swim in the water.  Jade & Amanda loved jumping in the water even with the water temperature being a bit COLD!!

 

What a great first experience kayaking!