Waimakariri River Guided Trip Package
- You don’t know the river you’ll be racing on
- Most of your training has been on flat water
- You’re nervous about what to expect
- You don’t have someone you trust to take you
- Going alone isn’t an option
- You’re not ready for the Coast to Coast — yet
With Canterbury Kayaking’s 3-Day , you’ll paddle the full 70km course with expert guidance and professional safety support. By the end of the third day, you’ll know the river, feel comfortable in your boat, and be ready to race. Without time on the Waimakariri River, you risk swimming your way down the race course.
If you’re training for the Coast to Coast but haven’t seen the river, the kayak stage can feel like a total mystery. You’re constantly wondering: Is my training on track? Will I be able to handle the Waimak?
This guided trip package removes the guesswork.
You’ll be taken through the entire race route, from start to finish, with plenty of time to build skills and confidence along the way. With the support of a professional guide, you’ll work on the key techniques necessary for a smooth decent of the Waimakariri River — so you can enjoy your race, not just survive it.
Once you’ve successfully paddle the river, you’ll know what’s coming, trust your ability, and feel much more prepared to race. How to Book
- Select your dates and submit your booking at the top of this page ↑
- Download your information pack and join us for 3 days on the Waimakariri River.
- Enjoy kayaking in the Coast to Coast with confidence. Meet Your Guide
Sam Milne is the most experienced kayak guide currently operating on the Waimakariri River.
Having helped over 1,000 athletes prepare for the Coast to Coast, Sam knows how important it is to build a positive experience with the river before race day.
He’s seen what happens when paddlers are rushed straight into the Gorge on a single-day trip — no warm-up, no skill progression, and often, a lot of swimming. That kind of experience leaves athletes stressed, shaken, and doubting their ability.
That’s why Sam stopped offering single-day guided trips and created something better: a 3-day training package based out of Christchurch.
You’ll progress gradually, starting on easier sections to build confidence and develop the Waimak-specific skills you’ll need. Then, on day three, you’ll take on the Gorge — not just hoping you’re ready, but knowing you are, with a trusted guide who understands both you and your ability.
By the end of this trip, you’ll have the experience and confidence you need to kayak in the Coast to Coast — and enjoy it. What do I get with this package?
- Kayak and paddle fitting/adjustment
- Gear and layering advice
- Forward stroke technique coaching
- Coaching on steering, manoeuvring, and balance drills.
- Skills session on bluff corners.
- Coaching on braid choice and handling confluences.
- Safety advice and self-rescue tips.
- 15km “Warm-up" trip(s) from Woodstock to Gorge Bridge.
- 55km “Gorge trip" from Mt White to Woodstock.
- Guidance down the river and advice on the best lines for you.
- Transport and shuttle for the third day.
- Option to hire a kayak, paddle, spray skirt, PFD, and helmet.
- Pre-scheduled bad weather backup day for day 3’s Gorge trip.
- Drills you can take away and use to keep improving in your own time.