The Rangitata River is one of the braided rivers in southern New Zealand that helped form the Canterbury Plans. The Rangitata flows southeast from the Southern Alps, until meeting with the Pacific Ocean. The river formed the Rangitata Valley and towards the river's mouth, it originally split into two streams, forming a large delta island known as the Rangitata Island. It is the most fished river in the Central South Island Area having a self-sustaining salmon fishery and the rafting trips down the River is also known for its turquoise waters and spine-tingling scenery.