Mokianui River: Rafting a Wild Gorge Threatened by an 85m Dam

A wild New Zealand river, a looming 85m dam, and a journey from source to sea. Photographer Craig Potton rafts the Mokianui to see what could be lost forever. From a limestone plateau in Kahurangi National Park to the storm-carved gorge, Craig meets the people and creatures that define this place. Old gold-mining relics appear where few expect them, earthquakes leave clues in towering rock walls, and a rare carnivorous land snail turns a rainy pause into a hunt. Along the way, freshwater ecologist Mike Joy reveals the fragile future of longfin eels and whitebait, while local Māori voices share why a river named for a “big raft” carries its own life force. Then comes the question no one on the water can ignore: what would an 85m hydro dam really mean for this valley? Immerse yourself in a cinematic river run that blends adventure, history, science and culture — and decide what this wilderness is worth. Watch the full episode now. #MokianuiRiver #NewZealand #WildRivers #Conservation #Documentary #WestCoastNZ #Rafting