Esk River Canyon

Reportedly a number of 3-4m drops Private land access (permit required) More horizontal stream, with plenty of smallish drops. Used to be a commercial trip. Download research sheet for Esk River Canyon, Hawkes Bay

Mathews Stream first full descent

Mathews Stream v6a2V**  29 rappels to 45m. 14hrs30mins round trip. Just over year ago, Pip and I had bailed part way down the first descent of Mathews Stream in the Ruahine ranges. It was a cold day in early October, with a light dusting of snow, overcast skies. We’d done 18 rappels up to 40m…

Upper Tutaekuri Gorge v1a3II*

No rappels Public access 4-5hrs  Requires Car shuttle Float/Scramble/Walk canyon, with a couple of short jumps/slides. This canyon is fully described in the Canyoning in NZ guidebook.  

Mathews Stream Canyon Trip Report

First Canyon for the Season! Located in the North Eastern Ruahine Range, the south branch of Mathews Stream was our objective for the day. During the steep but straightforward 2 hr access, we could see fresh snow sprinkled on the tops of trees on the ridgelines. Access was very simple, but the snow flakes bumped…