Sleeping God Canyon, Thames

CanyoNZ is one of the biggest and most exciting adventures in New Zealand.

Located near Thames in the dramatic Kauaeranga Valley en route to The Pinnacles walk, Sleeping God Canyon is truly unforgettable and not to be missed.

A vertical descent of over 300 metres down a steep set of waterfalls involving abseils-rappels of up to 80 metres, exhilarating water slides, and jumps of up to 13 metres into deep dark pools guaranteed to thrill.

The journey starts at the bottom of the valley floor with a brief korero (talk) about the area history, including the pre-european and kauri logging history. Then the hikoi (walk) begins as you ascend to the top of the river and into the top of the canyon where the views are grand and the experience of what you are about to do finally hits you! – Then put your gear on and start the descent after receiving safety instructions, an abseil lesson and a traditional karakia (prayer) before dropping over the first 30m waterfall.

Visitor safety is their priority, which is why they specialise in small group tours. The scale of the adventure is matched by the scale of the epic scenery.

A passion for adventure and discovery and a good level of fitness is required. You will get the chance to sit back and enjoy the views, however this is a full day’s high adrenaline activity.

Big jumps are optional, abseils-rappels are not. All gear is provided along with expert guides. Tours depart early in the morning.

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