Choose your level
Beginner or Intermediate?
Beginner (Introductory) – for packrafters getting started on moving water
- Reading the river and handling your boat with confidence
- Essential skills to keep yourself and others safe
- The decision-making and river-running strategies you need to plan your own trips
Intermediate – for packrafters who already run their own missions and want more
- Moving efficiently and breaking rapids down into separate moves
- Setting up safety for each other from your boats, not the bank
- Working as a team as you progress onto Grade 3 water
You’ll be coached by Daan Jimmink, one of New Zealand’s best paddlers, on the rivers of the Buller region – a mecca for whitewater.
Course content
What we cover
- Anatomy of the river and hydrology
- Personal, group and technical equipment
- Eddy hopping, ferry glides and cross-current moves
- Using eddies and river features to help you
- Scouting, line selection and breaking the river down
- Identifying hazards and setting safety
- Communication and river-running considerations
- Video analysis and gear discussions
Based at the NZ Kayak School in Murchison, with accommodation included. The rivers we use depend on conditions and the group. Bring your own packrafting gear and food – if you need extra equipment, get in touch before the course and we’ll arrange it. A full packing list comes with your booking confirmation.
Upcoming dates
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