Raft The Mighty Clarence River
Explore The Legendary Clarence River with Ellis
Repacking the rafts early morning. Late autumn a stunning time of year to raft the Clarence.
The Clarence River is known as the ‘Colorado’ of New Zealand’s South Island. First named by early Maori ‘Waiau-Toa’ (meaning, the tears of the wife of a great Maori chief, Tapuae-o-Uenuku), it is one of New Zealand’s longest and least explored rivers.
The Clarence River runs diagonally across the upper South Island, in a north-easterly direction and drains a massive catchment area of remote and rugged mountainous terrain, totaling around 3,500 square kilometers.
The Clarence River is a truly amazing river that twists and turns its way from its source (Lake Tennyson), high at the northern end of the Southern alps in the Lewis Pass, gradually descending more than one kilometre in altitude throughout its entire 220 kilometer (137 miles) course to the Pacific Ocean. It slices through some of the most remote and spectacular scenery in the upper South Island. Its tortuous journey follows a natural fault line, between two vast mountain ranges, the Inland and Seaward Kaikoura Ranges, the highest peak rising to nearly 10,000 feet, named Tapuae-o-Uenuku, after the celebrated Maori chief.
Raft through her massive gorges, carved out by water over eons of years. Gaze up at the dizzying heights of the canyon walls, which rise above your raft as you float along. Witness the might of tectonic plate movement through the tortured folds of rock, which have been forced from deep within the earths crust, forging the Kaikoura maintain ranges over millions of years.
- Autumn is an amazing time of the year to paddle the Clarence. The colors are amazing, the air is crisp and crystal clear and the salmon are running.
From pick up to drop off you will be fully catered for and cared for by our team of experienced guides and trip leaders. Enjoy great food, fabulous wine and many nights relaxing around the campfire. Everything that you require for rafting, camping and transportation will be provided, every step of the way.
The rafts don't paddle themselves. Although this lot may think so.
The middle gorge of the Clarence River is spectacular.
The Clarence River is not known for its massive wave trains and death defying rapids. It is rather known for its length, remoteness, tranquil yet rugged scenery, its untouched wilderness, abundant wildlife – and of course the river her self! But believe me, she won’t give it up easy – if you want her ‘love’, you will have to earn it! For most, the challenge is what beckons and makes the difference between ‘just another tourist trip’ and a genuine adventure.
Michelle and Ellis paddling in the headwaters, day one of eight.
All along the river campsites are set out in gorgeous surroundings, nestled amongst the native bush, with only the dawn chorus of bellbirds and the music of the river to wake to.
There is also some unbelievable fishing with monster trout hiding in most of the hundreds of perfect pools along its length. Salmon too make the massive journey from the Pacific Ocean to the distant reaching branches of the Clarence River in autumn to spawn, giving birth to new generations.
There are not many trips that we don’t catch dinner at some stage along the way. More often than not we find ourselves grilling a freshly caught salmon or trout over red-hot smoking coals and it never tastes better than when you’re camping amongst pristine nature.
The guitar and songbook is a great way to relax after a day on the river.
Rafting the Clarence River is a real journey, in every sense of the word. Not only is it physically challenging, but it is equally as fulfilling on a psychological and emotional sense, as the complexities of life are stripped away and we get back to basics – how nature intended it.
The river has a real rhythm, and after you allow yourself time to relax into it, you will rediscover a sense of peace and harmony, that we seldom allow ourselves to feel in our hectic everyday life.
Everyone is touched by the rivers personality. The whole team forms a strong bond, most often strangers becoming close friends and family bonding is at an all time high.
My daughter (Michelle) has been coming on these family Clarence river rafting trips since she was 8-years old.
If you want a quick thrill this is definitely not the trip for you! If you want the fancy, package deal, with flashing neon lights and a cheap ‘certificate’ to authenticate your adventure then don’t bother exploring any further!
If only Matt was as focused on his guiding as he is on the camera.
However, if you want to belong to a very small and select group of individual adventure travelers – you want to see the real backcountry and wilderness of New Zealand and immerse yourself in its culture, rugged beauty and awe – If you want to do something that is uncontrived and unique, a journey that most other people will only ever dream of taking, an expedition with lasting rewards and one that you will tell your grandkids about – then the Clarence River Rafting Expedition is it.
- The Clarence getting boisterous with spring floods – lower gorge.
Bring a group of friends, colleagues or the whole family – and get ready for the trip of a life time! 🙂
The Expedition Includes
* Transportation – pick up and drop off to and from Christchurch International Airport (if required).
* Two nights fully catered accommodation at ‘The Tree House’ with Ellis and Sanna. (one night before and one night after our Clarence River rafting adventure).
* Transportation from ‘The Tree House’ to and from the drop off and pick up sites on the river.
* Fully catered meals on the river (any eating requirements can be catered for).
* Rafting equipment.
* Camping equipment, including tents, bed rolls and sleeping bags (if required).
* All safety equipment, including satellite phone. (any part of the river can be accessed by helicopter in the event of an emergency).
* Professional guides and staff.
* All taxes included.
* The adventure of a life time 🙂
Expedition Prices
7-Day Expedition (a minimum of 4 people is required) NZ$2,200 / person
9-Day Expedition (a minimum of 4 people is required) NZ$2,800 / person
Private Expedition (you make the rules and anything is possible) Price quoted upon application
NOTE: More detailed information on the trip will be sent out upon request from interested parties.
Winter trip on the Clarence.
Ruurd with his prize salmon and a grin from ear to ear.
The best experience in New Zealand!
I have never had so much fun with a group of likeminded people, most of which I had never met before. I arrived on my own to Ellis and Sanna’s Tree House late in the evening to a huge warm welcome! I arrived on my own and spent the next 8 days with a group of new friends. I really wanted an adventure, something different from the standard tourist attractions in New Zealand. After being invited along and finding out about Ellis’ previous experience and his attitude to live life to the full I now realise why I had an amazing adventure.
The 8 days were tough but hugely rewarding, the scenery around every bend along the Clarence River was stunning. There were some long days but everyone worked so well together. The paddling flew by and in the evenings we camped in some stunning places along the river. We ate awesome food every night and spent evenings around the campfire, fishing, swimming, diving off rocks, attempting fire poi, slack lining and just generally having a great time getting to know some really amazing people.
I could not recommend Ellis’s rafting trips enough. You will definitely want to go again, as I hope to once I return to NZ. Ellis and Sanna are incredible people and their positive, fun and adventurous personalities are contagious.
If you are thinking about doing it, don’t think. Just do it! It will definitely be the best experience you will have in NZ.
Harry Williams-Wiltshire, United Kingdom
Just do it!
Late November 2012 we packed our barrel without knowing what to expect from this trip. Well, we knew we were about to raft the Clarence River for the next eight days with bunch of people, most of whom we´d never met before. What we didn´t know was that this expedition was going to be our best trip ever. Why? Because you leave every little busy thought behind and it´s just you, your new friends and the river for a whole week. You are present in the moment.
Rafting the Clarence River with Ellis and the rest of the team was an unforgettable experience that gave us memories for life. It´s a real New Zealand experience and not many people get the chance to do this. Not even Kiwis. You can ask anyone who has rafted the Clarence River with Ellis & Sanna, and they will all tell you how fantastic this trip is; the stunning scenery, lovely people with different nationalities, unforgettable nights around the campfire with dance-offs and non-talent shows, adrenalin rush and peaceful moments . . . and we could not have agreed more. But words can´t describe how amazing this journey is, you just have to experience it yourself. So all we want to say is that if you get the opportunity, just do it! You will never regret.
All the best,
Tim & Victoria from Norway
Last December, I joined for the second time Ellis’s group for a week-long rafting trip on the Clarence River. There were new people, more people, and surely as much fun and interesting interactions as the first trip. It was really special to witness the subtle changes in the environment around the river this season.
All went very smoothly in the day to day tasks, everybody doing his or her fare share of the jobs; packing, unpacking, carrying the barrels up to the camp or back to the rafts, cooking, and all other common tasks. The group was a nice medley of nationalities, ages, personalities and passions, so that we had a lot to share and learn from each other.
The surroundings were spectacular and even for a second viewing, I was very impressed by the beauty. Rolling hills, sharp snow-capped mountains or flat and grassy plains will appear after each corner, exposing the various shades of green and brown. Nature was at Her best and the birds’ symphony added to the simplicity of the moment.
Some sharp corners required hard paddles, and adrenaline rushed as the steep cliffsides or other obstacles race ever closer to the raft. These great surges of excitement took us out of the tranquillity of the flow of the Clarence and into the intensity of the moment!
With its balance of fun and tranquillity, everybody can enjoy this trip, I definitely recommend it to everyone!!! Have fun on the Clarence!!!
– Johanna Georges, France –
This was my second time rafting the Clarence River with Ellis, and once again it was just awesome. Every trip is quite unique because the group make up is always new, and the weather is never the same. On the other hand it was quite similar in the sense that you throw a whole bunch of people together that have just met the night before at The Treehouse and by the end of the trip you are practically all family.
With so many different backgrounds and nationality everyone brought a little something different to the table, and I was amazed at how smoothly it all went. From true kiwi’s who have been out in nature since they were able to walk, to Finnish skiers who have never rafted before, Ellis has an amazing ability to get people to just tip-toe out of their comfort zone and establish an enhanced sense of confidence in themselves. There is something very rewarding about pushing your own personal limits, and Ellis has designed this trip to allow anyone at any level to push their limits while still feeling safe.
The organization for a trip as large as this one was outstanding. I still do not know how Ellis does it, but boy does he do it well. Between the check-sheets and his eagle eyes he doesn’t miss a beat, and the trip went so smoothly because of it. The food was plentiful and delicious once again, and it was really great to see how well everyone worked as a team to do group tasks like cooking, cleaning, packing … and drinking. Haha. The scenery was second-to-none and with the timing of the year the massive snow capped mountains were exceptionally glorious. We had great weather and a good river flow that made for a very cruisy trip with a few intense rapids to get the blood pressure up! There was never a dull moment on the trip and by the 8th day we were all ready for some good R & R.
I cannot recommend this trip enough as it is so spectacular. If you ever get a chance to do this trip with Ellis don’t even think twice about it! Thank you so much for the amazing experience and I look forward to hopefully doing another trip with you in the future!
Peace, Love, & Happiness,
– Colin, USA –
I did the Clarence River expedition with Ellis Emmett and 20 other people on late November 2012. I met up with Ellis and Sanna Emmett and the other rafters in the Treehouse the day before the trip. During the day we got the personal gear needed (wetsuit, lifejacket, camping gear, dry sack etc..) and had a great barbecue party. The next morning we packet everything and drove about 2 hours to the starting point. After everything was set to go rafting, Ellis gave us a safety speech and made sure that everybody remembers how to be safe in the river BUT also knows that this trip is all about having FUN!
Well – we had fun…! The river was crystal clear all the way and we could see the bottom most times. When the river was cruisy we jumped of the rafts to have a swim and sometimes we stopped to jump out of cliffs. That’s what I really enjoyed. And there was safe cliffs high (or low) enough for everyone who wanted to have a jump and dip.
The main guide Ellis is great for inspiring people whether it is swimming out of rafts, jumping off cliffs or participating the ‘non talent’ or ‘bad dancing’ competitions by the campfire. Most times he inspires people by his own example.
I was surpriced how fast the group of 22 of all ages worked so well together as a team. I could say that after 8 days on the river we were like one big family.
I highly recommend this trip to anyone regardless of age, physical fitness or the rafting experience level. Currently I’m travelling around the world and I’m sure this will be hightlight of my whole trip.
Thanks the lot Ellis and Sanna!
-Jarmo, Finland-
“What is something you have done on this rafting trip that you have never done before?” Ellis posed this question to me for 8 straight days as we rafted, camped, swam, and fished down the Clarence River. Everyday I did not have to think before answering, mainly because the whole trip was an eye-opening experience and I was able to see or do something new and different around every corner. I’ve traveled to NZ alone to spend the 27th year of my life exploring and finding what this world is all about. Taking the Clarence River Rafting Trip with Ellis was better than I could have ever hoped for. Sanna and Ellis managed to bring 22 friends and travelers together from all over the world and with their energy and spirit for adventure we (speaking for all of us I think) had an epic 10 days together. They will all be a part of my journey forever ingrained in my heart.
It was so cool to watch as life stories unfolded while we carried barrels to camp, while we swam in the Sea, and while we sat around the fire for lunch and dinner. Every person contributed into the group making for a unique and dynamic trip, Ellis was the magnet that pulled us all together. He was genuinely caring and hospitable, and was able to manage every persons comfort level and personality. Some of us were seeking adventure, so we stopped to jump off high rocks, others preferred not to go full force into rapids so we stopped to walk around them. Seeing a person who not only loves but also respects nature & life to the extent that Ellis does really affects you.
After eight days on the Clarence River, I can not wait to see what else New Zealand has to offer. This trip was truly once in a life time, it’s not like any other “attraction” “tour” or “guided trip” I have ever seen. It was real. And I am so thankful for Sanna & Ellis for making it happen. If you are an individual who is seeking an opportunity go for it, just know that you won’t return to The Tree House the same person as you left. It’s magical!
Thank You Sanna & Ellis for this trip. Thank You to the rest of my group for being beautiful people & Thank You Mighty Clarence for letting us raft your waters and make home on your river side.
~Jessica, Charleston, USA~
One week ago our group returned to Cheviot from the 8-Day Clarence River Trip (Early Summer 2012), and I’m still smiling from the experience.
It all began at The Tree House, an absolutely amazing place with one of the most spectacular views I’ve ever seen. Sanna and Ellis immediately made me feel at home, they are incredibly hospitable people and you feel like a part of their family straight away. It was here that I met the rest of the group as well: fun, hard-working people, each lending a hand to ready the rafts, clean barrels, sort food, and gather supplies. Quality life vests and helmets were provided, as well as other necessary equipment, and these were checked to ensure a proper fit. It was during this time that you began to gather a sense of Ellis’s professionalism and leadership abilities as he divided tasks and ran around the property with his checklist, ensuring that all necessary tasks were done and completed correctly.
What followed over the course of the next eight days was nothing short of extraordinary, far and away the best experience I had in New Zealand. From the excitement of the first rapid to the lazy days stopping the rafts near a swimming hole, coffee and breakfast to laughter and dance-offs around the camp fire, this group bonded and formed friendships like few I’ve ever seen. The scenery was breathtaking, these are isolated parts of New Zealand few people will ever have the opportunity to see. Will you be put out of your comfort zone during the course of this trip? Yes. Will you be unsafe? No. There is a delicate balance here, but Ellis is an expert at walking this line, ensuring that the trip is exciting and new for each individual, but also that people aren’t pushed too far. And this is what made the trip memorable; watching people shed their fears and support each other fast friendships were made.
When I arrived at The Tree House, I was surprised by the number of people on this trip who had already been rafting with Ellis on the Clarence before, people who were returning for a second time. Eight days later I understood completely. This was such an incredible and unique experience, and I hope to be one of those returning for a second go myself someday. I would recommend this trip to anyone with an open mind, who is willing to collaborate and lend a helping hand, and is ready to see what it is New Zealand truly has to offer. If this sounds like you, don’t hesitate, experiences like this don’t come along very often but when they do they change everything, you won’t regret it.
Thanks Again Sanna and Ellis!
-Hans, Seattle, USA-
My own write-up from a travel blog here: http://hansboenish.wordpress.com/2012/12/10/new-zealand-south-island/
2 trips, Dec 2010 and Mar 2012;
Both trips were amazing experiences a normal tourist to wonderfull nz normally never could do.
The changing countrysides from the rough highlands to the virgin forest close to the sea, pure and anspoiled nature, the feel of adventure, the hunting and fishing, even diving for trouts, than the change of the riverflow and rapids, the swimming, the great campsides, the music, the food and all the fun we had night and day, and all of that perfectly organized by our “crazy” gifted, powerfull and convincing guide and friend Ellis Emmett whos life is passionated dedicated to nature and the Clarence.
I am always amazed how he is getting a bunch of people together that match and join together as one big team, and that with lots of people how never met before and suddenly are thrown for 8 days into the wilderness of the southisland, deepest respect, big friend!
On the last trip I was recovering from a mayor tumor operation, but still I took my wife and 12yr old Fynn, because I felt absolutlely save and confident. And again, we had a trip of a lifetime.
Therefor, the Expediton of the Clarence is even an adventure for unexperienced people.
So : No worries, just do it, you will never forget it!
You only have this life.
Love and respect,
Mikesch, Tina and Fynn – Berlin, 11/2012
Late Winter-Early Spring Trip: September 2012
Spending 8 days on the Clarence was the biggest adventure I have had in all of my (almost) 28 years! The beauty of the area is stunning to say the least. There are so many different landscapes and terrains. We had beautiful sunny days and overcast rainy days, even a snow day! Each campsite was exciting whether it be on the side of a hill or among the trees while every hut evoked our inner cook and game enthusiast. Rafting and camping in one of the few untamed areas left on this planet is something everyone should have the pleasure of enjoying. Not only do you have the chance to leave the network of everyday life and regroup with nature and your inner being but a special bond is created with those around you.
That bond is as equally treasured as the wonders of the canyons. From swapping stories at the airport when meeting Ellis and Sanna to Jury Duty on the last camping night, I will always fondly remember every interaction. (Even the moment on day 4 when I was so kindly told that my wetsuit was and had been on backwards.) The days down the river were filled with songs, jokes and even yoga. Nights around the campfire were packed full of great stories, life experiences and heaps of the best food any camper could ask for.
It is apparent that Ellis genuinely cares for these trips and those that accompany him down the Clarence. He offered his home, took time to teach and explain, lent us personal gear and made sure no one was left wanting of anything. His upbeat and positive attitude keeps everyone calm and happy. The years of his rafting experience was clearly evident from the moment we arrived. It takes a certain skill to take strangers and build a team!
I make sure to tell and recommend this trip to everyone I can! It was such an epic experience! Looking forward to the next time I can go down the mighty Clarence with Ellis and his team again!!
Andi – Savannah Georgia, USA
Early spring trip September 2012: A life changing experience and a real New Zealand adventure.
This was the best trip we have ever done. We spent eigth incredible and most exciting days on the beautiful Clarence River together with amazing people which soon became our family. I can hardly describe the stunning mountain views and the amazing time we had. This is a must for everyone who loves nature. We loved every single day on the river, in the huts and at the campsites. We had so much fun and the meals have been just yum! Midnight picklets 🙂
The Clarence is Ellis passion and he knows the river like his own house. He is an fantastic guide and he really knows how to organise such a trip!
Just awesome…and we will do it again!
– Babett & Steffen, Germany –
Oh, if only words could do this experience justice.
As we set out on an eight day, seven night adventure, I could have never expected what became of our time on the river. But, how could I? It was something new to me in a foreign land with an eccentric crew of people from all over the world and many different walks of life. I will admit, I had my considerations. To set into an expedition such as this is to take a leap of faith and hold on tight.
While packing and driving to the put in of the Clarence River, I was merely going through the motions and to be honest it had not truly hit me, I sat in the back seat as an observer and stranger. Then as we dropped in over the last mountain pass into the valley where the Clarence River lies, my breath was taken away by its incomparable beauty. As a young girl (freshly 23) over 8,000 miles from my home, I felt that overwhelming, butterfly like, feeling you get in your tummy when you realize some how, you have arrived to such a special place that such few people have been blessed to see.
As we loaded the gear into our boats, it became obvious to me that I was in the best of hands. The organization and attention to detail that Ellis provided is not only impressive and professional, it is respectable. I felt safe, welcome, encouraged, properly educated, well fed and (even on those white water days) warm. Ellis provided such a challenge by choice environment that I never once felt out of my skill range or uneasy about anything, in any aspect, of the trip.
Our days were filled with adventure, laughter, stories, songs, fishing, swimming and don’t forget rafting! I created relationships and bonds with the others on the trip unlike any others in my life. I still stay connected to them and plan to always. There is something magical in the water, through those untouched mountains. The misty mornings, warm nights around the campfires and everything in between lead to an unforgettable, invigorating life experience.
“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” – Mark Twain
Best wishes to you on this once in a lifetime adventure,
– Tawny – Colorado, USA –
I’d highly recommend rafting the Clarence with Ellis to anyone who wants a real Kiwi adventure. It’s something a bit different and will fuel the spirit of any adventurer. Ellis is a fantastic guide and his warmth, positive energy and humour make the trip unforgettable.
The river is stunningly beautiful, twisting and turning through a wild and natural evolving landscape. Floating along in absolute peace and tranquility alternates with some challenging rapids and bends to get everyone working as crew. Jumping off rocks, waterfights, swimming, fishing, stopping for lunch to refuel with a nap in the sun, it’s all there… whatever floats your boat and with Ellis anything could happen!
The evenings were filled with some fantastic meals, music and laughter, hanging out with the new river family, star gazing and yarning over a few beers. Going to sleep and waking up to the sounds of the river was heavenly and the sunsets, sunrises and time with the Clarence was food for my soul….. I can’t wait to do it again…..
– Juliet, UK –
Rafting the Clarence…. let me just try and put into words that can properly describe how incredible this trip was.
I had absolutely NO previous experience rafting, being on boats, and let alone… I was afraid of water and had never been on a river in my life before. Somehow, I ended up choosing to take time, on my own behalf, to leave my flat and work in Melbourne, AUS to fly back to NZ just for this trip.
Some might say that the trip begins when the rafts leave the banks at the river and you wave goodbye to the lovely folk that drove you there… but I can say that the trip actually started when I got picked up in ChristChurch by Ellis and Sanna. They are some of the most amazing and endearing people I have ever encountered in my life.
Despite my fear and lack of knowledge about rafting and rivers… we started the journey and I was filled with exuberant bliss. I felt completely safe with my guide (Ellis) and he had extensive knowledge of the river and how to handle every situation at hand. He is a professional who I trust and respect highly, and also, considerably, one of the funniest and most exciting guys I’ve met.
The time we spent on the Clarence was exciting but still easy and comfortable enough for beginners, but it still pushed me to learn new things and deal with and solve problems I had no experience with. Rafting the Clarence wasn’t just about getting on a floatation device with a bunch of other people… it was about the entire experience of every moment. It was waking up and having brekfast every morning as the sun would peek its head out from the mountains. It was gearing up and working as a team to take down camp and bring everything back to the rafts. It was getting warmed up for the day by playing games and stretching and hopping on to paddle our ways down the river. Every day at lunch we would pick a lovely spot to land…. hop off and work as a team to gather wood for fires and make lunches together. Some days we would play music, some days we would dance, some days we would split off into little groups and chat amongst ourselves.
Every night when we would pick the most perfect campsite, or hut, we would help each other out and bring in what we needed from the rafts. More firewood, get the tea and the dinner started. Everyone knew exactly what they needed to do, and what they wanted to do!
All of a sudden our days were not filled with checking emails or charging phones, but now we had a completely full schedule of tasks to do that really meant something! It felt like we became a family on the first night.
The dynamics of our group were incredible too, as we had everything from couples to singles to children…. people who spoke all different languages and came from all different parts of the world. Everyone in our group had such different outlooks on life and amazing things to share with each another.
The amazing part is that, this group, only happens once! It is what it is and that’s what makes it so valuable. Each and every group of people will bring such beautiful dynamics to the trip that every adventure is a completely different than the last. Every day was just as it was meant to be and we all learned so much from each other. Some fished, some climbed, some swam, some jumped, some played music, and everyone had a great time.
The river was so kind to us , the sun was friendly , and each day was a positive experience.
I would HIGHLY recommend doing the Clarence Rafting Trip.
It is nothing to be afraid of, and something everyone should try at least once in your lifetime.
New Zealand is my favorite country in the world (and Ive seen 17 so far!) and this trip has been one of my most memorable things I have ever done.
I have done it once, and I will do it again!!!
-Kayla, Canada – 🙂
I joined the 8 day Clarence river trip with Ellis and had a blast. I didn’t know anyone, I’d never really rafted (only a commercialized) trip, I hated camping and had a fear of water (although I never told anyone that) but the one thing I did love was adventure!
I have great memories of the trip because everyone was really friendly, the scenery is incredible, the water rapid ranges were actually spot on, with a mix of exciting rafting to calm chilled out rafting, which is perfect to appreciate the scenery.
Ellis has a great positive energy about him, is really supportive, and is always up for a laugh. He certainly doesn’t order from the menu and I felt totally safe during the trip and trusted him too.
His trip felt like a bunch of friends having an adventure together, which was perfect because I’m not into mass produced commercialized trips. Going on this trip made me feel like I’d seen another side to New Zealand from a locals point of view, which is pretty special.
If you get a chance to go on a Clarence Rafting Expedition, I’d definitely recommend it.
Thank you Ellis!
– Karen Bayley, UK
Brent & I joined Ellis on an 8 day rafting experience down the Clarence River. I got excited about the many photo opportunities we were going to see while Brent was a bit more reserved. For us ‘camping’ – is a motel! So as you can imagine this was totally outside our square. Actually, we really couldn’t wait to go.
We were with a group of 13 people from all over the world. On day one we exchanged polite conversation and on the last day of our trip, when we came to leave to go home or travel on, those farewell hugs were the tightest and longest you will ever receive. We were very sad to see our new best friends go, but we all know that we will be welcome to visit each other for coffee at their home one day.
On this trip you will have one of the best life experiences you can wish for, so much fun, laughter, serious moments, quiet times, to jaw dropping OMG!!! moments. For those people who think their life is all in order & perfect, it isn’t, until you go on one of these Clarence River Rafting trips with Ellis & his crew.
To see New Zealand’s back country is a chance that very few people get to see. You are in for such a treat as each bend, curve, twist, turn of this river, with its opportunities to see wild animals and birds pass you by, and even to stop and fish. What you read about the sitting around a campfire at night, this happens except here in NZ you can see the stars.
Brent & I had such an amazing time on our trip. It will challenge you but most of all you will have such amazing memories – you can’t stop smiling to yourself at the fun that you have had. If you get a chance to go – GO!!!!!
Thank you Ellis & Sanna we wish you many more exciting Clarence River Raft Trips.
Best regards,
– Shirley & Brent Cairns, Kaiapoi, New Zealand –
Truly amazing trip and most likely one of the best new year’s eves we ever got to experience whilst rafting, cruising, swimming, camping on the Clarence with Ellis & co. Get a group of friends together & go have some serious fun in this briliant spot of NZ with superb hosts. Beatiful New Zealand!!!
– Sari (Finland) & Reto (Switzerland)
MY BEST EXPERIENCE IN NEW ZEALAND AOTEAROA!!!!!!!.
The rafting trip with ellis and the whole crew was a amazing experience of life. Spent 7 days in the river meeting new people from diferentes culture and country was nothing less than amazing.
Ellis and his wife Sanna are just amazing people that make you feel part of a family in their house – the most beautiful house that I ever see in my life ‘THE TREE HOUSE’ in Cheviot.
So if you are looking for a new adventure, a WILD one, with nice people, just call Ellis and he will bring to your life the best wild adventure in your life, and always with nice people around conected with good values and respect for the wild life and also the best positive energy.
I feel so lucky to met this amazing experience. I am from Chile and I never tried rafting before, so with NO experience it’s not a problem, just enjoy everyday on boat and having a good time with nice people….
SALUDOS ELLIS BUENA VIDA SIEMPRE……
– Roberto, Chile –
The Best adventure I had!
This rafting trip on the Clarence River with Ellis was nothing less than AMAZING. I’m travelling around New Zealand, and those 8 days will stay as one of my best souvenirs! I recommend it strongly.
Ellis is a really good guide and he sure knows the Clarence very well, so I felt safe the whole journey, even when I was in the rapid waters after being ejected out of the raft! His safety briefing at the beginning of the trip saved my life; everybody new what to do. As well, Ellis has such a positive energy, such an enthusiasm and gives so much, that the only thing you want is give your best back.
The everyday life was a great lesson. Everybody got involved in the daily tasks and everything worked out smoothly in a light atmosphere. We all came from diverse background with different life experiences but one thing link us all; the desire to have a wonderful time in nature with a bunch of others who want the same thing. We all had good fun and there wasn’t a day without a laugh.
The Clarence is a delicacy for the senses. The mountain range with its relief and textures, the night sky with its millions of stars were an enjoyment for the eyes. The songs of the birds, the bleat of the goats and even the silence were a delight for the ears. The smell of the plants and the grass flowing in the air was pleasant for the nose. The contact of the fresh air or the warm sun on the skin took also part on the reconnection with Nature. And we ate such a great food! My taste bud will remember, thanks to the chefs!
You have to paddle hard and give the extra mile on the rocky parts and curves of the Clarence, but you gain so much reward! On the relaxing times you can appreciate to flow with the river and enjoy the gorgeous scenery. Each corner revealed a new wonder; the eyes stay wide open to appreciate and the only thing you can say is “Wouah”. That was so breathtaking no other word would come! I was so contented to be there, to be witness of such a beauty! And most of all, to share it with people who feel the same!
I really feel lucky to have been part of the team, that was an inspiring journey, and every day was a gift. Thank you very much.
– Johanna Georges, France –
This trip was absolutely AMAZING!
The Clarence is a wonderful river that sits deep within a magnificent mountain range. As we navigated tight corners I was amazed at the ever-changing views around each one. The river ranged from relaxing sun-bathing sections to intense rapids where the word “team” got a new definition.
The Clarence is just secluded enough to really allow you to get to know nature on a new level, but its rugged terrain is nicely balanced by the high quality huts and campsites along the way. There is just something about spending that much time out in nature away from everything that makes you recognize your connectedness to this beautiful planet.
Each day seemed to develop a theme within it and a new beauty different than the day before. But more notable than the beauty of the distant surroundings was the beauty of the team that developed over these 8 days. At first we started as individuals from a huge variety of backgrounds ranging from a single 20 year old girl, bursting with passion for the world, to a quiet 50 year old cancer-surviving couple with an intriguing sense of wisdom about them. By the end of the trip we were all friends that shared a lot more in common than we ever would have guessed at the beginning. When it was time to be serious everyone knew it and acted accordingly, and the other 90 percent of the time we turned into a bunch of clowns poking fun at each other and laughing our hearts out.
I can honestly say that I heard and was a part of more laughter during these 8 days on the river than any other 8 days in my life. The group was so lighthearted and when something little went wrong it was usually handled first by laughing and second with a bit of common sense. But when it was time to be serious we reeled it in and focused on the issue at hand. Never once did I feel like someone was slacking even the littlest bit. When there was group work to be done we tackled it as a team and it was done in no time.
Overall these 8 days together were incredible, in so many different ways, and stories that were created will last forever.
I cannot thank you enough for the truly remarkable experience. To sum it all up I’ll touch a bit on my mathematical background with an equation: 1 inspirational leader + 12 great people + 1 magical mountain range = The trip of a lifetime.
– Colin Courtney, USA –
We have rafted the Clarence River three times with Ellis. Once as a whole family, which included my two daughters Tess and Zeta (10 and 7 years of age at the time). Beyond all the beauty, adventure and immense vistas of the Clarence River, it is the experience as a whole. The people, the companionship and sharing your food will stay as a life long memory for me and my family. Catching a “little” fish (as shown on this page) on the way is just the icing on the cake. Yes, book your trip. You will never ever regret or feel the same after this trip.
– Ruurd and Truus van der Wel – Netherlands / New Zealand –
I have rafted the Clarence River twice with Ellis and recommend this trip as an incredible experience both in terms of the spectacular scenery you pass through and the wonderful people you are privileged to share it with. The trip can be challenging but you will be rewarded with an unforgettable adventure.
– Richard, New South Whales, Australia –