The Anatoki River in Golden Bay, New Zealand offers a range of paddling experiences across distinct sections, from beginner-friendly flatwater to serious whitewater. The river is well known among kayakers and packrafters, and its various sections cater to a wide range of skill levels.

The upper section, between Anatoki Hut and Anatoki Bend, is solid grade V and is described in the Whitewater NZ Riverguide. Access to this section typically involves a helicopter flight in to Anatoki Hut, followed by one very long day or two long days of paddling out. This is a demanding, committing trip suited only to experienced whitewater paddlers.

The middle section, beginning at Anatoki Bend, is a grade IV run that has become a classic walk-in kayaking trip. The approach on foot follows the Anatoki Track from the car park, taking approximately three hours to cover the nine kilometres to Anatoki Bend. There are a few camping spots at Anatoki Bend for those wishing to run the section as an overnighter. The section passes through a middle gorge before reaching the site of an old sawmill, now the Rainbow Valley Community. Whio (Blue Duck) are often present along this stretch, and paddlers are encouraged to avoid pushing them downstream, particularly if ducklings are present.

The lower section, beginning at the swimming hole that serves as the take-out for the grade IV trip, is a grade I/II float suitable for newer paddlers. It is paddleable in all but the lowest flows and continues pleasantly to the One Spec Road bridge near the confluence with the Takaka River. A bike shuttle between the put-in and take-out is straightforward, covering around ten kilometres of road with only about 140 metres of elevation gain, taking roughly 20 to 30 minutes.

The take-out for the grade IV section is accessed via a public walking corridor — an unformed legal road — marked by a fence guiding walkers from the road to the river. It is recommended to walk down to the take-out before running the section so it can be identified from the water. The Anatoki Salmon facility is located on the banks of the river in the lower reaches, providing a notable landmark in the area.