Hokitika Hold Up (PRANZ West Coast regional event)

Hokitika Hold Up - PRANZ West Coast regional meet - 10-12th October 2025

The West Coast is the best coast. Come prepared for a weekend of relatively easy west coast packrafting, We are focusing on grade 2 and 2+ runs with a touch of optional grade three. The key thing to remember about packrafting around Hokitika is that it does require walkins - this means actually packing your gear in to some spectacular paddling.

Likely runs are the infamous Hokitika Gorge from Rapid Creek Hut or bottom of Kakariki Canyon and the Arahura Milltown Gorge, these are both grade 2+ runs with some optional spicier bits. There are also options for some more capable paddlers of heading further up the Arahura into the bottom of Second Gorge and running the Cesspool (not even kidding), depending on interest and skill levels we may also look at the lower sections of the Whataroa, Styx, Toaroha or Kakapotahi rivers (a PRANZ favorite) and if water levels are right the Mikonui. As with any trip planned to the West Coast we need to leave our options open just in case it is anything other than the delightful sunny place pictured on the postcards, final river runs will be decided on the day.

Accommodation is at the Lake Kaniere Lodge, this awesome facility is at the south end of Lake Kaniere. It has a big lounge area for evening hangout. You will need to bring your own pillow/sleeping bag/sheets as sleeping is on DOC style mattresses in two large bunkrooms. There is a very limited area for a few small tents if you prefer a bit of space. Saturday night we would like to have a potluck dinner, bring something to share. The kitchen has a couple of stoves and a microwave plus all the crockery/cutlery we will need, there is a BBQ out the back. All other meals will be individual responsibility. 

Remember to bring the following:

All packrafting gear; including Whitewater Helmet, suitable PFD and a pack suitable for the walk in trips

Shared meal for Saturday night

Bedding (including earplugs if you are a sensitive sleeper)

Additional cash for shuttle drivers