Wahine Weekend (Boyle)

Connect with wahine who share the love of Packrafting

Join us for a weekend of paddling, workshops and discussion in the beautiful Lewis Pass with lots of fun and laughs along the way.

We'll focus on building our confidence, growing connections between us, and sharing women-specific knowledge and experience. As well as river runs, we'll do a session on self-rescue and hold discussions on topics ranging from stepping into trip leader roles to riverside hygiene and women-specific gear.

Based at the Boyle Lodge with the Boyle, Nina and Doubtful rivers on our doorstep, we will help each other to learn and grow. Walk-in runs are on the cards, so please bring suitable packs and footwear to pack your rafts to the put-in.

Starting on the Friday night with a social catch up, we'll kick off our sessions early on the Saturday morning. One of the skilled instructors from New Zealand Kayak School will join us for a day of workshops and discussions, with a particular focus on building leadership skills.

Inclusions

• Accommodation 2 nights at Boyle lodge

• Paddling both Saturday and Sunday

• Facilitated discussions and sessions with NZKS instructor

• Peer group discussions topics

• Please note that the itinerary is subject to change due to weather and paddling conditions so please be prepared to go with the flow.

Itinerary (subject to change)

Friday 7th November 2025

From 6pm Arrive at Boyle Lodge any time after 6pm - get yourself settled. Social catch up and planning. 

Saturday 8th November 2025

8.00am Meet and greet. Safety briefing and plan for the day confirmed.

8.30am Sessions on and off water throughout the day. Packed lunch.
6.30pm Pot-Luck Dinner, please bring a plate of kai to share

7.30pm Discussion Session

Sunday 9th November 2025

8.00am Pack up and tidy up

9.00am River runs

4pm(ish) Say our goodbyes

Feeling a little nervous about joining us?

We welcome wahine with ALL paddling experience, from beginners to more seasoned paddlers. This weekend is about development from whatever level you are at. If you are not confident on Grade 2 water and would like to discuss if this will be suitable, please send us a message. 

Remember to bring the following:

• All packrafting gear; including Whitewater Helmet, PFD and suitable paddling gear, be prepared for cooler waters. 

• A pack and suitable footwear for walk-ins.

• Bedding (the lodge has mattresses, you will need your own sleeping bag/sheets)

• Food - No food is provided and there are no local shops. Bring something to share at the potluck on Saturday night. 

• Cash for shuttle drivers ($5 notes)

Event organiser:

Claire Pettigrew