The Rangitikei District offers a veritable playground for many outdoor activities. Rising high in the Kaimanawa Ranges, the Rangitikei River has carved a spectacular canyon from one end of the district to the other. Where the often turbulent water has met a barrier of bedrock, it has created series of steep rapids, and beautiful clear pools. Closer to the sea, the river is slower and braided. All this is great news for rafters, kayakers, bungy jumpers, horse trekkers, jet boaters and trout fishermen.

Rafting and Kayaking

White water – Grade 5 (very exciting) rafting can be found east of Taihape at Pukeokahu. This is a steep, pool drop type run, with the river descending through a maze of boulders in a spectacular canyon. This particular section is generally recognised as being one of the best commercially available white water rafting trips in New Zealand. Only competent kayakers should paddle this part of the river, and even then they should seek local advice.

Other sections of the river, downstream from Pukeokahu, and as far south as Mangaweka, contain rapids not exceeding grade 2. These can be rafted or kayaked as part, whole, or multi day trips. Utiku to Managweka is a very popular beginner kayak trip.

Bungy Jumping

The Rangitikei has the highest bungy jump in the North Island, and one of the higher ones in the world. The unique water driven chair gently lifts you the 80 metres from the bottom back to the top, while either side immense cliffs seem to almost meet overhead.

Horse Trekking

There are several operators in the district, each offering a different type of experience. All have one thing in common though, stunning scenery! Make sure to take a camera!

Jet Boating

Jet boaters find the Rangitikei River challenging and very scenic, with commercial operators offering a variety of experiences, and trips of varying duration.

Maize Maze

The Amazing Maze 'n Maize is a giant maze within a corn (maize) field. Visitors can spend from 30 minutes to 3 hours being lost and confused in New Zealand's first and most innovative maize maze.
CornEvil Haunted Horror maze has the added bonus of 20-30 live actors doing their best to scare the yell out of you. Also available is the indoor 3D Manic Maze and Vortex Tunnel, and The Shearer's Revenge Haunted Woolshed.
All activities are seasonal.