Your journey begins with a full safety briefing and equipment fitting from our expert river guides. Once on the water, you’ll immediately feel the power of the Kaituna as you plunge into steep rapids, navigate narrow canyons, and prepare yourself for the unforgettable drop over Tutea Falls. Each rapid brings new challenges, heart-racing moments, and plenty of fun with your crew.

What makes Kaituna River Rafting Rotorua truly unique is the connection to culture. As you paddle through the lush native rainforest and volcanic gorges, our guides share stories of the river’s Māori heritage and spiritual significance. This isn’t just a white water adventure; it’s an opportunity to connect with the awa through kōrero (stories) and whakapapa (connection).

We provide everything you need, including wetsuits, booties, helmets, buoyancy aids, and paddles. All you need to bring is confidence in the water and a sense of adventure. Perfectly located in Rotorua, this trip is easy to access yet feels completely immersive. From conquering world-class rapids to learning the cultural stories of the river, Kaituna River Rafting Rotorua is an adventure you’ll never forget.

After your rafting experience, it’s time to see the Kaituna from a whole new perspective. Grab a board and fins and dive into the action with white water sledging; riding rapids, play-holes, and waves at eye level. Unlike rafting, you are in control of your own vessel, powering yourself through the water while our guides support you every step of the way. It’s raw, physical, and exhilarating; a completely different way to connect with the awa.

Throughout the Raft & Sledge Combo, you’ll be surrounded by native forest, volcanic cliffs, and wildlife that make this river one of the most beautiful in Aotearoa. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline, seeking cultural connection, or simply want to try something new, this combo offers the perfect balance of thrills, scenery, and storytelling.

All necessary gear is provided, including wetsuits, booties, helmets, paddles, boards, and fins. All you need to bring is confidence in the water and a willingness to take on two world-class white water experiences in one incredible day.

If you’re ready to double your adventure, the Raft & Sledge Combo Rotorua | Kaituna River Adventure delivers a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Guided by our expert Kiwi river crew, you’ll paddle through boulder gardens, pool-drop sections, and legendary rapids like Geoff’s Joy and the Taūtika Rock Garden. Each rapid delivers a burst of excitement, balanced by calmer stretches where you can soak up the scenery.

As you raft the Rangitāiki River, our guides also share kōrero (stories) of the awa’s Māori heritage, adding depth and connection to the experience. This trip is ideal for first-timers who want a taste of adrenaline, as well as experienced rafters keen to explore a new river.

All gear is provided, along with a light lunch, so all you need to bring is confidence in the water and a sense of adventure. Just 45 minutes from Rotorua, this full-day trip is both accessible and unforgettable.

The Wairoa River is famous for its steep drops, surging hydraulics, and massive rapids with names like Mother’s Nightmare, Rollercoaster, and the Devil’s Cauldron. This Grade 5 section is designed for those who want to push their limits and experience white water at its most extreme.

Guided by our world-class river crew, you’ll be kept safe with top-quality gear and expert navigation, allowing you to focus on the adrenaline. Between the chaos of the rapids, the river flows through a stunning boulder-lined gorge surrounded by lush native bush — showcasing raw Aotearoa beauty.

Wairoa River Rafting Rotorua is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and an achievement you’ll talk about for years. If you’re ready for intensity, challenge, and a wild ride, this river is waiting.

After conquering the maunga, it’s time to trade hiking boots for a paddle and take on the Kaituna River. Famous for its lush native bush, narrow gorges, and 14 thrilling rapids, the Kaituna delivers both beauty and adrenaline. The highlight of your rafting journey is the 7-metre Tutea Falls — recognised as the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world.

With expert Māori river guides leading the way, you’ll paddle through steep drops, charge technical rapids, and learn about the cultural stories of the awa (river). This isn’t just adventure — it’s a connection to the land and water through whakapapa (genealogy) and storytelling.

All specialist gear and transport are included, so all you need to bring is confidence in the water and a sense of adventure. The Kaituna Raft & Mt Tarawera Combo is perfect for travellers who want to experience Rotorua from two breathtaking perspectives in one unforgettable day.