The Kawarau River in Queenstown has since 1987, been the epicentre for river sledging or river surfing. A surfer from Hawaii – Jon Imhoof – who visited Queenstown, New Zealand unexpectedly had to have his stay extended. As such when he was looking for an alternative activity, he hit upon the idea of taking his board onto the water. It was then that it was discovered that the white water and rapids on the Kawarau River were ideal for an all new type of fun and adventure.
The Serious Fun River Surfing company was born on this discovery in 1989 and has since then been a pioneer in bringing this interesting and thrilling experience to many adventure seekers who travel from all corners of the globe to try their hand at this action packed activity.
Dividing the waterway into two sections, namely Chinese Dogleg and Roaring Megs, these surfing trips are undertaken twice a day from November to March and once a day during the months of April, May, September and October. Which section of the river is chosen for which trip largely depends on the weather conditions, rapids and water levels.
The Serious Fun River Surfing company provides all the necessary equipment including life jackets, fins, helmets, full steam wet suits and photos and videos of your experience and can be obtained after the trip. Refreshments too are provided after the four and a half hour trip of which almost two and a half hours will be spent on the water.
The company together with the sport has received many commendations and awards from many esteemed travel companies, travel sites and other related institutions. River surfing was in fact named the best water based thrill sport and Queenstown, the best place for it.
If you hope to visit the country and are on the lookout for Queenstown hotel accommodation, then be sure to choose one that is conveniently located.New Zealand Queenstown hotels are easy to find and if a convenient location and modern amenities are what you are looking for then Copthorne Hotel & Apartments Queenstown Lakeview is an ideal choice for your next visit to this scenic part of the country.