Riversurfing

One of the guides was beyond annoying. The other two were good. The annoying guy's name started with a P. Name might be Pavi. Trash mouth, questioning why we didn't get drunk in Queenstown and asking stupid questions to the guests while on the shuttle to the launch site. I would rate the overall tour higher but having to listen to him run his mouth was a big negative on the trip.

Highly recommended! We ended up with a very tiny group which made the experience even more unique. The guys were great fun and very attentive. Way better than rafting.

We were fortunate that there were just 4 of us in our group. Jack and Neil were fantastic guides. Thorough safety briefing and time to learn the techniques before heading off. All the gear supplied was perfect for keeping us safe and warm in the water. I would say that if you would definitely enjoy this activity if you are a confident, competent swimmer who doesn’t mind waves. Other options on offer for those not as confident. Quite different to rafting being an individual activity. Loved it, such a unique activity. Scenery was great. Rock jump fun too!

Took too long to get in the water - picked up at 14.00 but didn’t get into the water until 16.30 then exited at 17.15. It was a mixed ability group of 10 people and 3 guides so some people struggled more than others. All the guides were great but maybe controlled the participants too much and as a result we were congested and banging into each other most of the time. The brochure stated ‘up to 2 hours in the water and up to 12kms covered’. We were actually only in the water for 45 minutes and only covered 4.5kms. Apparently they used to do two loops of this section of the river whivj would have been a great option for those who wanted to do it. Sadly by the time people got used to the equipment and what to do it was all over. Definitely not worth $265 NZD sadly.

Really enjoyed the experience. Myself and two teenage kids enjoyed smashing through the rapids. A lot of bumping into other people in the group as the river guides you down - somewhat out of control. I liked the experience for this reason as you have to work with the power of the river. What some things to expect - you will spend more time travelling to the section of the river, getting suited up and doing multiple training activities than the actual activity itself. By the last rapid my kids were like ‘is that it?’. You can try to surf some of the rapids - as a reasonably confident body boarder I actually managed to surf a couple of times for just fleeting moments. The actual camp setup is quite basic with just a pit toilet and a tent change room for one, so come dressed in your swimmers and bring a big towel. Plenty of bugs around as well! There seemed to be a lot of guides on my trip and they have a strong focus on safety. If I could improve the day I wish I could have gone down the rapids a second time as the first time seemed to go so quickly.

While I may have been slightly under-prepared for the adrenaline fix that this adventure delivered, thanks to my husband who tactically omitted to brief me, it was a memorable activity that I am glad I went on. The whole team seemed to genuinely love their job and chatting with all the visitors as well as, crucially, being extremely safely conscious and supportive while in the river. It was physically demanding riding/ducking waves while kicking to keep on the right track so I would not recomend for anyone who was not feeling energetic. Having said that I am not super strong and managed (with help from our guides) to reach the destination in once piece so you do not need to be mega fit. This is as intense an interaction with a river as you can get (safely) I think which was pretty amazing. Our teens all loved it (and found it less challenging than their mum).

So much Fun ! We did not know what to expect… but fortunately the team is awesome, they clearely know what they do to keep you safe, have some fun and make this adventure memorable. Being comfortable in the water is clearly a plus. Would defenetly do it again if we get the chance ! Thank you Max, Pav, Neil and the photographer/driver (sorry i did not catch your name)

Why worry about falling in the river while white water rafting, when you can just start in the water riverboarding? This was a thrilling adventure and a lot of fun and the guides to a great job of explaining what to do and ensuring you practice the skills a bit before getting into the exciting class 3 rapids. I'd highly recommend if this sounds fun to you.

Went on the afternoon of Nov-8. Riverboarding seems easy, but is actually pretty challenging. I couldn’t control the board well, and was awkward with the flippers. Too many times, when I was about to hit the big rock or being pulled away by the current, the handsome safety guy, maybe with the name Pas…? (From England, with a charming accent, likes to call everyone ‘darling’, quite humorous) saved me. He’s really professional and experienced. He managed to pull 2-3 terrified ducklings at the same time. Crazy bicep power ;) Riverboarding is really an exciting activity causing adrenaline rush! More challenging than whitewater rafting.

So much fun! This was one of the best experiences I did in NZ! You do quite literally go down the river on a body board. There's a good explanation at the start of what you need to do, and you get a bit of practice in an eddy at the start. It is safe, but you need to be a pretty confident swimmer, mostly just to be sure you don't panic as when you do go down the white rapids you can get caught in whirlpools and you can feel a bit out of control. I would definitely recommend doing this though if you are comfortable in water! We went in October and it was a bit cold but really not bad. The pickup in Queenstown was prompt and took you straight there and back.

They are not kidding when they said in the description that it would "challenge your nerves." I considered if this was for me but thought it couldn't be that bad since there were so many reviews saying they felt totally safe and I have always really enjoyed white water rafting and floating, but I was completely wrong. Maybe the water levels were higher than normal, but I have never felt so unsafe. I spent the whole time thinking I was going to crash into a rock wall and probably break something, losing what very little control I had on the board that seemed too big for me. The times when we were supposed to kick very hard to go in a certain direction to not crash into walls were also the times when I was completely blinded by water, which is something that could have been easily prevented by providing goggles, especially since a lot of people wear contacts, which I was also afraid of losing in the turbulence. I kept ending up way down river from the guide with no idea where the hazards were going to be, which was even more terrifying. I would say they needed more guides for this size group, but honestly this just doesn't seem like a good idea to put people who don't have experience with...I guess normal surfing? I don't know what else would prepare you for this...into. Decide for yourself, maybe you will like it, but I did not come out thinking oh that was scary but I'm glad I did it but instead oh I was an idiot to put myself into that kind of danger.

Riversurfing was AWESOME. Such a fun and unique experience that will definitely get your adrenaline pumping. The guides were amazing and I felt super safe the whole time. We really enjoyed this trip and would highly recommend to anyone!

Fantastic, loved it. Worth the money, guides were great and heaps of fun, but still felt incredible safe.

While I do not recommend inquiring or signing up so late, due to extenuating circumstances, I made an email inquiry after hours on Saturday evening regarding sledging availability the following day. I received prompt and thorough responses and follow-up responses from Neil to my initial inquiry and subsequent question. While the level I was seeking was full, I was very impressed with the level of customer service. I am confident that this attentiveness to customers is consistent in their entire operation.

We had such a wonderful time with Serious Fun Riverboarding. The guides/ team were so friendly and fun and looked after us incredibly well. It was such an exciting new experience for me and one for the memory bank! Thank you Pav, Max and the while team for a great day on the river!!!!! Would absolutely recommend 👌

Fantastic experience from start to finish. The guides were excellent and the river surfing was such good fun!

We did this riverboarding as a spur of the moment activity after running out of things to do in Queenstown. We were fitted out carefully with wetsuits and all the other bits and bobs. We had a safety briefing before heading down to the river to do some basic training. We (me 50, and two kids 11 & 13) had a great hour or so after the training bobbing down the river through the rapids. I was expecting it to be colder but we all found the supplied wetsuits to work perfectly for us and no-one complained about the cold. Initially my 11yo struggled a bit but once he figured out how to use the fins/flippers properly, things improved a lot. Although this activity does appear daunting at first, once we got going I found it to be quite easy and fun.

I took 6 teenagers on this and we all had a ball. Some hairy moments which were great fun. Guides were very knowledgeable- the briefing is a little long and a little repetitive however, once you got started was worth while. Do morning surfing as you get 2 goes at it and you may be too tired later in the day for second go.

Awesome experience- Pav, Charlie and Max are legends. Extremely experienced, knowledgeable and fun- we felt completely at ease with them. Highly recommended to anyone who is comfortable in the water.

Booked this with my son, I’m sixty so was a little worried but it is an awesome adventure, now my absolute favourite. Forget bungee, this is so much more fun. Was initially a bit nervous but the team gave us complete confidence that we were going to have FUN !! Really well organised. The first thing I book on my next trip to Queenstown - thanks guys.

Let's just say that this is an activity which delivers big time. Why? Its beyond the usual tame experience of gliding and bungee jumping (no disrespect intended). It delivers a little more raw nature direct to you in complete safety by a team of professional and friendly staff.

Great experience and an awesome team! Thought we would freeze but toasty as in quality wetsuits with excellent instructions and guidance on the river. Much better and more fun than burning fuel in a jet boat and MUCH more entertaining than the local rafting options. We went as a work trip which it was also perfect for.

Rafting has nothing on this. This is totally a crazy, adrenaline filled outing which you need to try if you get the chance. The team are amazing and ensure you have a brilliant but safe experience. Don't fear the cold as wetsuits are warm and water is pretty darn good and you don't even think about as you are moving so fast and trying to not get eaten up by whirlpools and rapids. Definitely exceeded my expectations. Thanks Pav for the assistance ;-)

I convinced my husband to do this activity on our honeymoon and it turned out to be one of our favorites! We went in September and it was COLD but the wetsuits made a world of difference. It was way more intense and fun than I expected. The staff were all really friendly and it was an amazing experience! We would definitely do again :)

We were looking for something other than rafting (been there, done that). The day was FREEZING. Once in the wetsuits we were warm and were never cold again amazingly so don't let that ruin your ambition to go. I really enjoyed this experience except that I struggled with the rapids too much, which tired me out. Luckily, a guide was there and saw I was struggling and helped me the rest of the way, which I am ever grateful for. Sam made sure I still enjoyed myself and was able to recover some energy. I won't be doing it again but I recommend giving it a go. I can tick that off my bucket list!

Best way to describe this is 100 times better than rafting a river. The experience is in the water but you are warm because you are moving more and holding onto the board. I did this with my wife and we enjoyed the scenery as much as the adventure. The river was really low so the trip took 1 hour which was awesome and made it so much more enjoyable. The guides were friendly and helpful Recommend this well above so many other things to do in Queenstown. It a hidden unknown gem of an experience.

This experience is definitely one to to remember, if you are thinking about doing it, just do it. It was truly awesome. Every single moment before, during and after I felt entirely safe. The guides were AWESOME, the best guides I’ve ever had while doing an activity. Absolutely worth the money. 10/10, the activity itself was so much fun.

All I can say is WOW! I had the most amazing time doing this activity. I'll admit I was pretty scared going into it as I don't consider myself the strongest swimmer in the land. But there's a reason everyone mentions the guides in their reviews -- they are AWESOME. That's all there is to it. BEST guides I've encountered on an adventure like this. They made me feel so safe that I could actually relax (a bit! not too much!) and enjoy the ride. I have never done anything like this in all my travels and I can't recommend it enough. You will not regret taking this trip.

If you're looking for a step up in water sports, this is definitely the way to go. It was so much fun, intense and full of adrenaline. Really really enjoyed it! The highlight was definitely our guides- not only were they super capable, they were all so nice and clearly loved what they did. Had some good chats with them and learnt more about the area. Would definitely recommend, just make sure you have a good level of fitness!!

What a group of awesome Guides. It’s difficult doing the river at first but they’re enthusiasm was just intoxicating. Support them they’re great. My teenagers really enjoyed it. Adrenaline adventure excitement all you want in a trip

What a cool group!!! Highly recommended!!! I took my 11year old daughter and it was awesome, was put completely at ease with Dallas looking after her the entire way. You can’t go passed this activity.

An epic journey down Roaring Meg - seeing her from the viewing platform is one thing, being fully immersed in the rapids is another!! How epic. AND I didn't know we got to go down the river twice! A very welcome surprise. Loved the experience, loved the guides - all very safety conscious and careful...Highly recommend.

Awesome trip! - Neil and Sam were great. Super exciting, stunning environment and FUN! Highly Recommend.

Super fun!! My favourite thing I did in queenstown, wish I jumped off the higher cliff :( regrets.the Russian guide was my favourite. A good laugh. Makes sure everyone is safe. Must do!

I went on the sledging trip a week or so ago and far out!!! It was AMAZING! Such a thrilling ride going down the rapids! Will be recommending this activity to friends who love adrenaline

Well, pretty much zero stars from me as I didn’t even get to do it as my booking was either forgotten about or cancelled without any notification. I had booked (in October) to do river boarding for my partners birthday in January. Showed up at the pick up point early, and it was a no show from Serious Fun Riverboarding team. The lady at the pick up point called them for us and it turned out our booking was either forgotten about or they had cancelled. Don’t know exactly what happened really. They wouldn’t come and honour our booking as they said they needed more people to book in for the experience (as it was just us two) but I could rebook for another time, which wasn’t possible as I had other activities booked for the afternoon and was leaving Queenstown the following day. At that point it was also too late to book anything else for that morning also. Very disappointed to say the least. Massive let down and for my partner who was really looking forward to it. It’s all good and well if the operator needed to cancel as there was not enough people booked in, however maybe some communication and a refund would have been appreciated so I could have organised something else for the day. I had booked through Adrenaline Hunters who has confirmed via email the booking with the operator back in October, and so far, it is been a mission to get a refund. So, I’ve been left $470 out of pocket for this.

Definitely one for the bucket list! River surfing was so much fun! The guides are great and look after you really well. Great activity to do even on a wet day as you don’t even notice it’s raining. Looking forward to doing it again!

This experience was great. I was the most anxious of our group and Pav, one of the guides, stayed with me to ensure I was ok. He was fantastic and I felt very reassured with him. The rest of the group all agreed this was better than white water rafting. The day was cold but once kitted out in wetsuits, lifejackets, booties and flippers the water was fine. I am so glad I did this. It was amazing and the guides were fabulous.

Fantastic experience! The instructors were really amazing, which meant i felt really safe in their care as they constantly knew where you were and had your back (sometimes literally). Would highly recommend it!

This was amazing. Did this in late October After some pretty poor weather, was 100% warm enough. Was done in very high flow and was a good adrenaline rush. Guides are incredibly skilled at looking after everyone. Felt 100% safe all the time. Would recommend this to everyone who feels even mildly comfortable in water.

I was a bit nervous to do it at first as I haven't done any kind of water activities like this before but it was a lot of fun! There are two guides (one in front and another one in behind the group) and they make sure you are safe throughout the trip. If you are thinking about doing this, make sure to watch the video to know what you are getting into before hand. You need to love water and don't mind water on your face as you go through some rapids. I did it in the beginning of September so the water was cold (it snowed/rained 5 or 6 days ago when I did this.) but the wetsuits keep you relatively warm so it's not that bad. They take pictures throughout the trip as well. If you have a GoPro, I would recommend taking it. There is a mount on the helmet. Highly recommend it.

Such a good day today riverboarding! The guides were really awesome! Really informative and great at helping you out if you go a bit off course! Would highly recommend to locals if you haven’t tried it and it’s a must do if you are a visitor! So much fun! Thank you!

Couldn't wait to try riversurfing and wasn't disappointed! Such an adrenaline rush getting up close to the rapids making it a must do if you're in the area. Felt completely safe and well looked after by the guides so it was easy to focus on the fun of the experience. Good balance of intense, exciting moments and relaxed drifting with time to take in the beautiful scenary. We went riversurfing when the water was 10 degrees and was comfortably warm in the water with the wetsuit we were provided. Warm showers at the end was definitely a bonus! All in all was a great day and will definitly go again but would have enjoyed some conversation about the history/geology of the area. Thanks again to the team at Serious Fun Riversurfing, I loved the whole experience!

We had the best time riverboarding, our guides were fantastic and helped to settle our nerves! Thanks so much, high recommend it!

This was an insane adventure. I love the water and waves but this was very intense. We felt very safe with our guides but this is not for the faint of heart. Make sure you love the water to do this adventure. It was a highlight for sure but watch the video first to make sure you know what you are getting into. IF you are looking for a wild rush this is it!

Thanks to Riversurfing crew! 👌 Our experience wouldnt be as fun as possible w/out your company! Our lead guide was Pavel. He's awesome + protective, of course, he values our safety + always bring my glucose meter + juice + sweets since Im living with type 1 diabetes. 😎 Then there's Tim who's great in communicating the instructions + very supportive too! You wouldnt want to forget the trip w/o any photos captured wonderfully by our lovely Rachel. There's also Sophie who has great customer service skills. She'll provide all the infos you'll be needing, completely! 😎👌😂 There's also *Ken?* (sorry forgot his name!) but he's very supportive. He gets to coach me midway if I drift onto the corners. So if you LOVE the water, come & play with this adventurous crewww! You can go round and round in the whirlpool and definitely enjoy the rapids! Thanks mates! 💙💙💙

A definite must do in Queenstown! Wow this was the most adventurous/extreme experience I had in New Zealand and I am so glad that we gave this a try. I initially thought this would be pretty easy after doing canyoning and water rafting but this was tough (in an amazing way)! I loved how the guides make sure you are safe and not left behind. If you have never done riversurfing before, you should definitely give it a try. Oh, also, the guides and photographer take amazing pictures of you throughout ;)

Thanks for a fantastic riversurfing yesterday. The 2 guides are perfekt and i was i good hands all the time..they are so pro in all the things they doo. Thanks 🙏😀💪

10/10 for this trip. WOW. I was looking for a new thrill after doing all of the bungy jumps, white water rafting, and canyoning. This was it! Had fantastic guides Neil, Sam, and Brogan. They are experts and know the river inside and out. Felt completely safe the entire time. Even the receptionist Ruth helped to calm our nerves before we got on the bus to the rapids. Do yourself a favor and book this trip now! Thanks for the memories guys!