Ultimate Descents Aotearoa
Murchison, Tasman · Riverside Holiday Park — follow signs to the raft base
Ultimate Descents Aotearoa is based at the Riverside Holiday Park in Murchison — New Zealand's whitewater capital — offering the full range of river experiences across the top of the South Island. Day trips on the Buller Gorge tackle grade 2–4 rapids through stunning bush and mountain scenery, suitable from age 10. Family-friendly options on gentler sections of the Buller and Maruia Rivers are available from age 5. For more serious adventurers, multi-day expeditions into the remote West Coast rivers deliver wilderness rafting, adapted through a partnership with Makingtrax. All gear is provided and trips are fully catered on multi-day adventures.
Inclusive statement
Ultimate Descents and MakingTrax have been working together for years to make rafting available to all abilities. Rafting is one of the most naturally inclusive adventure activities — everyone is seated, and the whole crew is there to assist with transfers. The team are experienced at welcoming guests with a wide range of mobility needs and are genuinely committed to making it work.
Good to know
A specially designed MakingTrax river harness provides full trunk support for guests with limited core function — including those without trunk control. Drysuits are available for guests who lack temperature regulation (only hands and head exposed). Multi-day trips can be equipped with specialist equipment and accessible bathroom facilities. All adaptive rafting is coordinated through MakingTrax — contact with plenty of notice, including your ability, weight and contact number. Based in the Buller Gorge close to Murchison — own transport required. Please contact Makingtrax directly for adaptive trips.