Lying remotely in an isolated area forms a mysterious canyon. Deep Water Canyoning is New Zealand's premier guiding company based in Wanaka running since 1994. The experienced guides demonstrate their knowledge and promote customer service as a key feature. The bumpy road felt never ending, waiting to arrive at our unknown destination.

To begin with we were given appropriate gear such as wet suits, an old pair of running shoes, thermals, gloves and a helmet. Unfortunately the shoes were all wet, and didn't fit me properly resulting in uncomfortable footing during the start of the activity. A quick snack was provided before we got into it, giving us energy for the exciting adventure ahead. Climbing up the hill to get to the canyon was a steep one, taking short breaks to give our body a rest with the sound of waterfalls crashing in the background.

After making it to our destination the team was excited, gearing up and talking with each other. Our guide Dave gave us a safety briefing, preparing us with the dangers ahead and the outline of the activity. Checking each others helmets and gear was important making sure we were all safe and nothing was going to come loose. The first abseil looked terrifying, not knowing what to expect the team was in shock. Our team mate Tom was the brave one, volunteering to go first giving us a heads up while we watched him go down. There was a metre drop at the bottom, producing a splash of freezing water and laughter. My turn arrived, the first initial shock to the water was numbing, however the more I swam the less cold I felt.

After the first abseil a massive drop appeared, looking at each other confused Dave told us that's the first slide. This 8 meter slide was awesome, almost a 4 metre slide then the remaining 4 metres was a drop. Everyone had smiles on their faces knowing this was just the beginning of a very fun day ahead! A few abseils later and more slides canyoning only got better, we familiarised ourselves with the abseiling and really got the hang of it. Dave's customer service skills were exceptional making sure we were all enjoying ourselves and consistently sharing stories about past canyon experiences.

Our eager team was determined to try everything canyoning had to offer, the head first slide was scary looking, but that wasn't enough to stop our team. One by one we went down the slide all cheering each other on having a blast. An opportunity for a big jump was ahead. A slight climb up a bank with secure foot holes and steady hand grips we were looking down into the canyon. The 7 metre jump looked higher than it was, however after one jump that was not enough for our team. Three jumps later, with incredible photos and videos we continued down the canyon.

The scenery was spectacular, almost unreal. The green tree's hung over the canyon along with waterfalls rapidly flowing echoing in the distance. Throughout the trip Dave offered to take photo's of us, with his waterproof camera making things a lot easer. As the trip was coming to an end, our last event was a zip line to the other side. The exhilarating feeling was incredible. Unfortunately the fun couldn't last forever, back to the beginning we went to get dry and warm after such a great day. Knackered and satisfied with the day we'd had, we piled into the van and headed back to Wanaka.

If your interested in a more intense canyoning activity check out Earnslaw Heli Canyoning that Deep Canyoning supply .The opportunity to fly over the spectacular Skippers Canyon and Shotover river would be extraordinary. Cost of bookings are $1500 per person. Known as the 'Big Daddy' of canyoning you can be sure to get a thrilling day out of it with 500m of vertical decent.

Overall Deep Water Canyoning in Wanaka was unbelievable. If you've never experienced anything like it before it's a must do! For the entire duration of the day I felt completely safe. This activity will only set you back $240.00. For more information on transport, there are a few options to choose from. Dave was an impressive guide, his experience and great customer service skills were clearly shown. This memorable activity was highly worth it, and one of my favourite water activities I have ever done. To give you an idea of what to expect view the video!

To check out a blog for a different experience than mine, check out my friend Heidi's blog