Packrafting Monument Adventure

Beginner-friendly packrafting trip in Fiordland National Par

The Monument Packrafting Adventure offers everything that makes packrafting special: flowing rivers, wild Fiordland scenery, camping by the lake, and a climb to remember. It’s a trip that leaves you with stories, skills, and memories that last long after you’re back in Queenstown enjoying a hot shower and a well-earned meal.

The Monument Packrafting Adventure is ak. Starting in Queenstown, we paddle the Waiau River, cross Lake Manapōuri, climb The Monument (optional), and camp at stunning lakeside locations.

This trip is designed so that anyone can do it. The Waiau River is gentle and beginner-friendly, and while the distances can be physical, no previous paddling experience is required. Think of it like a multi-day tramp, but with boats – the challenge comes from steady effort, not dangerous rapids.

Day 1 – Queenstown to Lake Manapōuri

Depart Queenstown at 8 am, arriving in Te Anau mid-morning. After a gear check and briefing, we launch onto the Waiau River for a 25 km paddle downstream. The river is quick-flowing but gentle, carrying us through forest and open valleys until we reach Lake Manapōuri. We camp near Shallow Bay Hut for our first night.

Day 2 – Lake Crossing and The Monument

We set off early across Lake Manapōuri, paddling 8–10 km towards The Monument. The lake can be calm or wind-ruffled, but steady paddling brings us to the base of the peak. Those keen can attempt the short but steep scramble to the summit, using a fixed chain for support in the chimney section. The climb is optional but rewarding, offering panoramic views across Fiordland. After the climb, we continue paddling to camp at George Bay.

Day 3 – Paddle Out and Return to Queenstown

On our final morning, we break camp and paddle back across the lake (8–10 km). The return paddle is steady but achievable, and we finish with the satisfaction of completing a true Fiordland adventure. By mid-afternoon we’re back in Te Anau, returning to Queenstown in the early evening.

Who This Trip Is For

Beginners: No paddling experience needed – if you can tramp, you can do this trip.
Adventurers: Those who want a physical but achievable challenge.
Groups and celebrations: Perfect for birthdays, stag or hen weekends, or marking a milestone with something unforgettable.
Multi-generational families: Parents, teens, and adventurous grandparents can share this journey.
Teams: Ideal for workplace groups looking for a shared outdoor challenge.

The trip is designed to be challenging enough to be rewarding, but accessible to newcomers. For those who want to push harder, we can increase the pace and distance covered.

What to Bring

• Personal clothing suitable for Fiordland conditions
• Sleeping bag, mat, and lightweight camping kit
• Food for 3 days (gear list provided on booking)
• Sturdy footwear for paddling and optional climb
• A sense of adventure – Fiordland weather can change quickly

Duration: 3 days, 2 nights
Departure: 8:00 am from Queenstown (arrive Te Anau ~10:00 am). Option to meet in Te Anau.
Return: Back in Queenstown by early evening on Day 3
River section: Waiau River, ~25 km, Grade 1 (4–5 hours paddling with breaks)
Lake section: Lake Manapōuri, ~15–20 km over 2 days (3–5 hours per day)
Climb: The Monument (~290 m ascent, optional scramble, 1–2 hours return)
Camping: Two nights in beautiful lakeside locations (near Shallow Bay and George Bay)
Fitness required: Comparable to an overnight tramp. You should be comfortable being active outdoors for 3 days.
Age suitability: Teenagers and up (contact us to discuss suitability for younger participants).

T's and C's

• Packrafting Queenstown warns participants that participation in Packrafting Activities involves a general risk of harm that may result in loss or damage to participants including personal injury or death.
• 48hr cancelation policy