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Tongariro / Rangipo Dam to Tree Trunk Gorge (Access 14), III-IV (P)

Wed, 2006-05-17 20:59 — jonathan
4.5
Average: 4.5 (2 votes)
Alternate Name: 
Access 14
Tongariro
Info
Class: 
III-IV
Portage?: 
Yes
Gauge: 
07 386 8113, http://www.hydro.genesisenergy.co.nz/AllFlow.asp
Length: 
6km
Gradient: 
16.5m/km
Time: 
1 - 3 hours
Put in: 
Below Rangipo dam
Take out: 
River left, above Tree Trunk Gorge
Shuttle: 
18.5km
Maps: 
T19, T20
Character: 
Even-gradient rapids, plenty of them, fantastic scenery
Hot tip: 
Don't miss the take out

The Tree Trunk Gorge run is the hardest of the three Tongariro sections with steep rapids coming at you fast and furious. The rapid names, like Mother-in-law's Nightmare (The Bitch), Oppat's Ordeal, General Disaster and Kirkham's Mistake, speak of the common disasters that used to occur regularly on this run through the 80’s in fiberglass kayaks. It is a relatively short run, has fun wave trains, banks lined with virgin beech forest, easy access and a short shuttle – perfect! There are three planned water releases each year, otherwise you will have to stay tuned to the website flows during rain events. It is worth the visit any way it flows.

There is a sign in the take out eddy on the left side. Don’t miss it!! Tree Trunk Gorge is immediately downstream and unless you are a world class gnarly dude or dudette you don’t want to run it without scouting!

Fill: 
89%
Credits: 
Graham Charles
History: 

The tree trunks that Tree Trunk Gorge was named after, were flushed out in some floods in February 2004. The gorge was then run for the first time in April 2005 by Tobin MacDermott (USA) - a very serious undertaking.

No incidents reported.

Disclaimer

Canoeing and kayaking are activities with inherent risks. Whitewater NZ takes no responsibility for the accuracy of this guide, nor for any risks or dangers that canoeists or kayakers may encounter. Any users should fully research the current river conditions and ensure they are fully equipped and have the appropriate skills, before embarking on any river trip, per Whitewater NZ Code of Practice. While every effort is made to ensure that details are correct, it is possible that this information is no longer accurate. If you find discrepancies or errors, please let us know at guide@rivers.org.nz.