One of New Zealand's best kept secrets, River Valley is a destination you want to put on your bucket list. The remote destination is popular with travellers eager to get off the tourist trail and discover the real New Zealand. Surrounded by towering cliffs and bush-clad hills, packed with epic scenery, adrenaline pumping activities and tranquil trails, the family-own ranch, situated on the wild Rangitikei River, no mobile reception, it truly is a hidden gem well off the beaten track.

Earlier in the day we had joined another bus so we were looking forward to meeting other travellers. We were lucky enough to spend a night at the lodge, where there was an option to share a 32 dorm room but it was more like one big mattress! Bobbi and I opted for the 6 bed dorm instead whilst Sam had a night of luxury in a private room. The three of us also decided to join in on the cooked roast before getting involved in some interesting party games! We had a great night and met Jess, Britt and Amanda three Canadians along with Alexia, Melina and Caroline from Switzerland and France.

The lodge was located along the Rangitikei River, home to one of the world's top half day Grade 5 rafting trips. I was up for an adventure so I strapped on a life-jacket and helmet and spent the morning riding the rapids down the Rangiteki River.
The experience will set you back $175NZD and includes a number of steep waterfall-esque drops, chutes and wild Rapids and there is a good chance you'll end up in the water! But it is well worth it, Sam and I had a great time with lots of laughter whilst Bobbi explored the surrounding countryside with some of the others we had met the evening before.