Risk Disclosure

All activity inherently involves risks and potential hazards, and we cannot anticipate or eliminate all risks, however together we can manage and mitigate risk.

Often, we are operating in unmodified and uncontrolled terrain and a balanced and conservative approach is taken to accommodate changing conditions. Our risk management includes monitoring of natural hazards including potential atmospheric, land or water related occurrences. (Landslides, earthquakes, tsunami, volcanic, storms, flooding, avalanche, rock, or ice fall).

We provide information to participants before and during the activity to ensure their participation suits their ability and objectives and is as safe as practicable with any potential changes identified prior or during the trip. 

It is important clients acknowledge there are risks, understand safety information and briefings before and during their activity and follow the instructions set out by our experienced and trained teams.

Prevention of accidents and incidents is key in all our operations, and this is achieved when we all approach activities with care, control, and responsibility.

Safety Management

Challenge Rafting is committed to ensuring the highest level of safety of all staff, visitors, contractors, and others who may interact with any part of our activities.

This is achieved through developing and maintaining a culture where safety is our paramount consideration in everything we do.

We actively promote safety objectives, not only in the operation of our assets and equipment, but also through maintenance practices, the management of passengers and the training and competency assessment of all staff to a very high standard.

Our teams of experienced and capable managers and skilled staff have specialist knowledge relevant to each of our aviation, marine and adventure operations. 

We have implemented Safety Management Systems approved by the relevant regulators.

Should other providers be contracted to deliver services, we check to ensure operators are regulated and audited for H&S compliance to a high standard. 

White Water Rafting

The Kawarau and Shotover Rivers, known for their thrilling white-water rapids and stunning scenery, also present unique natural hazards. Rafters should be aware of potential risks associated with these rivers, including rapidly changing water levels, hidden obstacles, and strong currents. While experienced guides mitigate these risks, unexpected weather events like heavy rainfall can significantly increase river flows and create challenging conditions. Additionally, the remote locations of some rafting sites can limit access to emergency services in case of accidents.

The river and its fluid nature:

The fluid nature of the river poses a continuous and unpredictable risk during white water rafting. Changes in water levels, flow patterns, submerged obstacles, and shifting currents can occur suddenly, increasing the likelihood of capsizing, collisions with obstacles, and potentially hazardous situations for participants, leading to injury, drowning, or loss of control of the raft.

Raft flips:

Flips during white water rafting pose a significant hazard to participants and can occur regularly and at any time. These flips may result in injury or drowning due to sudden immersion in fast-moving water, impact with rocks or debris, and potential entrapment under the overturned raft.

Entrapment:

Entrapment during white water rafting poses a serious risk to participants, where limbs or the body can become trapped against rocks, under the raft, or in hydraulic features. Such entrapment can lead to drowning, injury, or even death due to the powerful forces of the moving water and the difficulty of extricating oneself from the entangled situation.

Impacts:

Impacts during white water rafting present a significant risk to participants, as collisions with rocks, submerged obstacles, or other rafts can occur unexpectedly. These impacts can lead to injuries such as bruises, cuts, fractures, or head trauma and may also result in capsizing or entrapment situations, increasing the likelihood of drowning or other serious consequences.

Fast-moving and/or deep/shallow water:

Fast-moving and/or deep water presents inherent risks during white water rafting, as participants may struggle to maintain control of their raft or swim against the current. The force of the water can overpower individuals, leading to difficulty in self-rescue or retrieval by safety personnel. This increases the likelihood of drowning, exhaustion, or injury due to collisions with obstacles or entrapment in underwater hazards. Shallow water also presents a significant hazard, with an elevated risk of entrapment or impacts from objects in the river.

Rocks:

Rocks, both in the water and while moving around the water's edge, present a dual risk during white water rafting. Participants navigating the river face the danger of colliding with submerged rocks, which can lead to raft damage, capsizing, or injury. Moreover, individuals manoeuvring around the water's edge are susceptible to slipping or falling on rocks, potentially resulting in injuries such as sprains, fractures, or lacerations. These risks underscore the importance of caution and proper safety protocols during white water rafting activities.

Earthquake:

The Alpine Fault runs approximately 800km up the spine of the South Island of New Zealand and is one of the world’s major geological features. Responsible for the prominent geological features in the area, the Alpine Fault is active, with rupture events occurring on average every 300 years. The latest significant earthquake was in 1717 AD. For more information, see the link here: AF8 website.

Analysis indicates that major ruptures are likely to exceed Magnitude 8. The next Alpine Fault event is likely to be very destructive and could trigger multiple landslides and rockfalls. An Alpine Fault rupture of Magnitude 8 is anticipated to cause significant changes to the natural landscape and damage critical infrastructure across most of the South Island, such as key road networks and services.

Landslips:

Landslips pose a significant risk during white water rafting, particularly in areas with steep terrain or unstable soil conditions. Sudden landslides can dislodge rocks, trees, and debris into the river, creating hazardous obstacles for rafters. These obstacles increase the likelihood of collisions, capsizing, or entrapment, endangering participants and amplifying the complexity of rescue operations. Additionally, landslips may also trigger powerful surges of water, intensifying the force and unpredictability of the rapids, thus heightening the risk of injury or drowning for rafters.

Rockfall:

Rockfalls present a substantial risk during white water rafting, particularly in areas with steep cliffs or unstable rock formations. Sudden rockfalls can dislodge large rocks or boulders, which may cascade into the river, creating dangerous obstacles for rafters. These obstacles increase the likelihood of collisions, capsizing, or entrapment, posing significant risks to participants. Additionally, rockfalls can generate powerful waves and turbulence, exacerbating the already challenging conditions of the rapids and increasing the risk of injury, drowning, or raft damage.

Other river users:

The presence of other river users while white water rafting introduces a notable risk factor. Interaction with kayakers, jet boaters, or other rafting groups can lead to collisions, entanglements, or disruptions in navigation. Lack of coordination or communication among different river users increases the likelihood of accidents, potentially resulting in injuries, capsizing, or equipment damage. Moreover, the diverse skill levels and behaviours of other river users contribute to the unpredictability of their movements, amplifying the complexity of managing shared waterways and necessitating heightened awareness and caution from white water rafting participants.

Entering very cold water:

It's crucial to be aware of the potential effects of cold water on the body, particularly on the cardiovascular system. Cold water immersion can indeed trigger the 'cold shock response,' which includes rapid changes in heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing patterns. For individuals with underlying heart conditions or those taking heart medication, these physiological responses can pose serious risks. Rafting in cold water below 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit), especially with a high chance of swimming, requires careful consideration, particularly for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions. Consulting with your healthcare professional before engaging in such activities is strongly advised to assess individual risk factors and determine whether it's safe to participate.

Severe weather events:

Severe weather events, including thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and flash flooding, pose a significant risk during white water rafting. Rapid changes in water levels, strong currents, and reduced visibility can lead to accidents, including capsizing and hypothermia, endangering participants' safety. Vigilant monitoring of weather forecasts and immediate implementation of safety measures are crucial to mitigate these risks.

Medical events:

The remote nature of white-water rafting increases the potential consequences of medical events. Injuries or illnesses can occur without immediate access to medical assistance, which may endanger participants' health. Disclosing applicable medical conditions to your guide is crucial to ensure proper risk management. Effective preparation and communication are vital for managing such incidents in remote river locations.

Portage:

Participants should be aware that portage, the act of carrying or dragging a raft around hazardous sections of white water, poses inherent risks during a white-water rafting trip. Hazards such as uneven terrain, swift currents, slippery rocks, and unpredictable weather conditions may increase the likelihood of accidents or injuries while undertaking portage. However, in certain conditions, portage may be the lower-risk option compared to navigating dangerous rapids. It is essential for rafters to exercise caution, utilize proper equipment, and follow the guidance of experienced guides to mitigate these risks effectively.

Vehicle transport to and from the river:

All Rafting: It's important to recognize the risks associated with transportation via bus to and from the rafting activity. While we prioritize safety measures, transportation inherently carries risks including, but not limited to, road conditions, weather, and other external factors beyond our control. We advise all passengers always to wear seat belts, adhere to safety protocols, and follow instructions provided by our staff during transit.

Shotover River Rafting:

Skippers Road, an old mining route, is notorious for its steep drop-offs and tight corners, adding potential hazards during transit. While safety measures are our priority, transportation inherently includes risks such as road conditions, slips, weather changes, potential earthquakes, and other factors beyond our control. We strongly advise all passengers always to wear seat belts, adhere to safety protocols, and follow staff instructions during transit, particularly when navigating Skippers Road.

Helicopter transport and/or equipment failure:

Helicopter transport for white water rafting presents risks during landing, take-off, and flight due to factors like adverse weather, terrain obstacles, and mechanical issues. Remote environments exacerbate emergency response complexities, necessitating thorough risk assessment and adherence to safety protocols for participant safety.

Jet Boat transport and/or equipment failure:

Prior to engaging in our activity, it's important to recognize the risks associated with transportation via Jet Boat to the rafting activity. Jet boating involves high speeds, sharp manoeuvres, and navigation through potentially turbulent waters. While safety is our top priority and our experienced drivers adhere to strict protocols, there are inherent risks involved in such activities. Factors such as river conditions, weather changes, and unforeseen obstacles could impact the journey. We require all passengers to wear the provided safety gear, remain seated, hold on tight, and always follow crew instructions.