FEATURE

First Descent of the Karangarua River, New Zealand

By True Alliance

The North Face®, the world’s premier supplier of authentic, technically innovative outdoor apparel, equipment and footwear announces the successful completion of The North Face Adventure Grant 2015 expedition lead by Kiwi white-water kayaker, Jordan Searle.
 
Jordan Searle was joined by Ari Walker, David Bain, and Barny Young on a mission to complete the first descent of the Karangarua River on New Zealand’s West Coast. The expedition team also included Taylor Weston who supplied track support and James Scott, helicopter pilot.
 

Photo courtesy of True Alliance

"The First Descent of the Karangarua from its source was simply incredible. It encompassed a breath-taking river valley, full on white-water, technical portaging and smiles for days. It is great to have this trip behind me as I have been eyeing it up for years now. I couldn't have asked for a better team to be on the river with and would like to thank Taylor Weston, my good friend, for his fundamental role of track support." – Jordan Searle, The North Face Adventure Grant 2015 Recipient
 
While the class VI – V section below Cassel Flat had been kayaked before, the upper 17km was a First Descent from Christmas Hut to Cassel Flat. The expedition involved two days of scouting and four days to complete the First Descent.


Photo courtesy of True Alliance

The North Face Adventure Grant exists to aid adventurers in Australia and New Zealand in achieving their dream expeditions. We are currently accepting applications for 2016 expeditions.
 
THE NORTH FACE ADVENTURE GRANT 2016
Presented by AG Outdoor
 
APPLICATIONS CLOSE DECEMBER 31, 2015
 
The grant recipient receives:
 
$5000 grant from The North Face

$3000 AG Outdoor Grant

$2000 worth of The North Face gear
 

Photo courtesy of True Alliance

We are looking at applicants from a wide range of areas including rock climbing, trekking, alpine climbing, extreme endurance pursuits, skiing, snowboarding, B.A.S.E. jumping, kayaking and paragliding, just to name a few. We’re not only looking for elite athletes, the grant is designed to assist adventurers of all levels to step up and make their adventure aspirations a reality.
 
For information on applying visit www.thenorthfacegrant.com.au.