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The Hobbit Barrel Run Rafting Tour on the Pelorus River

Recommended by 97% of travelers
South Island, New Zealand
Great choice
5+ bookings last month.
  • 3 hours 15 minutes (approx.)
  • Mobile ticket
  • Offered in: English

Overview

Channel your inner Hobbit and enjoy outdoor adventure in the heart of New Zealand on this Hobbit barrel run rafting tour on the Pelorus River. Pull on your wetsuit and hop aboard your raft, then drift onto the Pelorus River — made famous in the 2013 movie "The Desolation of Smaug." Stop off at filming locations used in the making of the movie to hear behind-the-scenes stories.
  • Enjoy hassle-free round-trip travel from Havelock
  • Paddle down the beautiful Pelorus River with a guide
  • Choose from a morning or afternoon tour to fit your schedule
  • Gain insight into the region’s milling and mining heritage

What's Included

  • Professional guided tour with all safety equipment supplied
  • Return transport from Havelock.
  • Local taxes
  • National Park fees
  • Food and drinks
  • Lunch

Meeting and Pickup

Meeting point

  • Bluemoon Lodge
    48 Main Road, Havelock 7100, New Zealand

    We depart from the Bluemoon Lodge, 48 Main Rd Havelock

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

1

Pelorus Eco Adventures

2 hours Admission Ticket Free

Additional Info

  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Near public transportation
  • Not recommended for travelers with back problems
  • No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
  • Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • Not recommended for child aged 6 and under
  • Please allow 3-4 hrs
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelers

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

Traveler Photos

Gallery picture 1 (from a traveler's review)
Gallery picture 2 (from a traveler's review)
Gallery picture 3 (from a traveler's review)
Gallery picture 4 (from a traveler's review)
Gallery picture 5 (from a traveler's review)

Reviews

4.9
based on 170 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

Beautiful and worth experiencing!

Rosette_A, Feb 2026
Kayaking was an awesome experience. Jade was a great guide, providing great commentary on interesting facts about the area as we kayaked past and we also stopped at the area where the barrel scenes were shot for the Hobbit and Jade had some great stories to tell. Although we came in Summer, it was raining on the day and we were worried about the rain. However, it wasn't heavy rain and wetsuits and splash jackets were provided and the rain wasn't a bother. The rapids weren't too big, but it was still fun going through them and it was great just paddling and enjoying the scenery. Thanks for a great Jade!

Response from Host, Feb 2026

We loved having you're family out for the day enjoy you're holiday.

We had a great time...

Carol_B, Jan 2025
We had a great time kayaking! Jade was a wonderful guide. There is a shower and hair dryer available if you decide to swim. I would definitely recommend!

From $125.62

per person

up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)

Book ahead!
On average, this is booked 49 days in advance.