SEASON OPENER ON THE KOKATAHI: A SPRING EXPEDITION ON NEW ZEALAND'S WEST COAST

Zack Stones

The morning sun peeks over the top of the Southern Alps of New Zealand's South Island as six kayakers prepare for the day's journey down the classic Kokatahi River. Toad, Manu, Zack, Ryan, James, and Phil, a team of local Kiwis and Americans. This is the season opener, always an exciting day uncovering new changes to the river, whether good or bad. The Kokatahi, nestled behind Hokitika in the heart of the West Coast's wilderness, is renowned for its vibrant blue water, breathtaking scenery, and world-class boofs in a remote river canyon accessible only by helicopter. The riverbed is reshaped by annual floods, ensuring that every season's first descent feels like exploring uncharted territory. The helicopter ride into the canyon is an important part of the day as it grants…

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Kayak Session (Digital) - 1 Issue, Winter 2024

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