Rotorua Rafting
Rotorua
Local Pick
At a glance
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Price
$$$$ Affordable
Local tip
Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or a first-timer, you’ll be in safe, passionate hands with our hand-picked crew.
Expect good yarns, heart-pumping adventure, and a real connection to the Ōkere Awa - and the people who call it home.
Experience the thrill of white water rafting on the world-famous Kaituna River, located just 20 minutes from Rotorua. With emerald waters, stunning native scenery, and adrenaline-pumping rapids, Rotorua Rafting delivers an unforgettable adventure surrounded by the beauty and spirit of Ōkere Falls.
Get ready for an action-packed journey through Grade 5 rapids,including the iconic 7m Tutea Falls — the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world. With 14 epic rapids, drops, and waves, this is the ultimate Kiwi adventure for thrill seekers.
Expert Guides & Unforgettable Experiences
Led by passionate local guides, every trip combines excitement with world-class safety and expertise. The team knows the Kaituna River inside and out, sharing their knowledge, stories, and love for this incredible part of New Zealand.
Culture, Connection & Manaakitanga
More than just a rafting experience, discover the deep history and cultural significance of the Kaituna River. Learn about the stories of Ōkere, the whenua (land), and the awa (river) while experiencing true Kiwi hospitality and connection.
Adventure with Purpose
Rotorua Rafting is committed to protecting the environment and giving back to the region. Through conservation efforts including native tree planting, pest control, and sustainability initiatives, every adventure helps support the future of Ōkere Falls.
Ready for the Ride?
Whether you’re chasing adrenaline, exploring Rotorua, or looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, Rotorua Rafting puts you right in the heart of New Zealand’s most exciting white water adventure.
Safety is the top priority at Rotorua Rafting. Due to the nature of the experience, the team is unable to accommodate guests who are pregnant, under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or those with certain medical conditions.
Rotorua Rafting operates under strict AdventureMark Certification in accordance with New Zealand’s Adventure Activities Regulations. Guests can enjoy their rafting experience with confidence, knowing they are guided by highly trained professionals with qualifications in swift water rescue, first aid, and emergency response.
With an outstanding safety record and experienced local guides, every adventure is designed to deliver an exciting, memorable, and secure whitewater experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — no experience is required. Guides are highly trained and will talk you through everything. You’ll be briefed before and during the trip, and safety is always the top priority.
Yes, Rotorua Rafting are GoPro friendly. It must be securely mounted (like with a helmet or chest strap). Loose devices are not allowed for safety reasons — and to avoid watching your gear disappear down the river forever.
Yes—we offer great discounts for groups of 6+. Managed departures, and optional extras like catering/BBQ is also available, Contact Us to sort that out. Ideal for schools, work groups and chritmas functions, family adventures, and stag/hen dos.
Allow around 2 hours total—with about one hour on the river plus check-in, gear briefing, and a post-raft photo viewing!
GuestscRafting offers a lower Grade 3 section from below the waterfall, providing a safe and exciting introduction to whitewater rafting. There is no set maximum age for rafting, with the experience welcoming a wide range of adventurers — including their oldest rafter at 86 years old. Guests are required to meet the expected level of physical fitness and be free from any serious medical conditions. Those unsure about participating due to a medical condition are encouraged to contact the team before booking.
We set our maximum weight at 130 kg for safety reasons. It’s not just about numbers—a proper fit into our safety gear is essential. Our wetsuits range from XXS to XXXXL.
To save disappointment, it is recommended to pre book!
It happens! You will be thoroughly prepared before you hit the water! You'll get a full safety briefing, and your guide will run through exactly what to do if you end up out of the raft. Every trip is led by fully qualified river guides trained in swiftwater rescue, and we’ve got safety kayakers on the river too — their job is to keep an eye on you and assist if needed. Most people who fall out end up laughing about it… once they’re back in the boat
