Kaituna White Water Rafting

North Island

Rotorua Rafting

from

NZ$125

per adult

Raft descending Tutea Falls on the Kaituna River with Rotorua Rafting

Experiences

Rafting & Sledging Tours

Family-friendly Tours

Half-Day Tours

North Island

Start: Okere Falls, Rotorua

Location: Rotorua

Travel Time: 2 hours

Difficulty: 5

Minimum Age: 10 Maximum Weight: 130kg

Details

Thrills on the Kaituna River

Set in Rotorua’s lush native landscape, the Kaituna River offers some of the most exhilarating rafting in New Zealand. The highlight of the adventure is the 7-metre Tutea Falls — the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world. Between each drop, calm pools and beautiful gorges provide moments to catch your breath and admire the scenery.

Rotorua Rafting’s expert guides ensure every trip is packed with excitement and local insight. Whether you’re a first-time paddler or a seasoned adventurer, you’ll be in safe hands from start to finish. With warm waters and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s no wonder Kaituna rafting is a must-do experience in the North Island.

Rafting group floating through lush native forest on the Kaituna River

Excited group white water rafting with Rotorua Rafting on the Kaituna River

Person jumping into the Kaituna River while others raft below

Drone shot of a raft going over Tutea Falls on the Kaituna River

GoPro view of a rafting group paddling hard on the Kaituna River under blue skies

Aerial view of multiple rafts and kayakers on the Kaituna River

Raft travelling down a narrow gorge of the Kaituna River surrounded by native forest

Group cheering and paddling down white water with Rotorua Rafting

Raft floating in pool below Tutea Falls on the Kaituna River

Raft entering a narrow fern-lined gorge on the Kaituna River with Rotorua Rafting

Raft dropping down Tutea Falls, the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall

Group enjoying white water rapids with Rotorua Rafting on the Kaituna River

A Journey Through Nature and Culture

The Kaituna River, also known as the Okere River, flows through a gorge steeped in Māori history. Along the way, guides share stories that connect you to the land and its people, adding cultural depth to your adventure. It’s more than just rafting — it’s a journey through Aotearoa’s natural and spiritual heritage.

Just minutes from Rotorua, the river’s proximity makes it easy to plan a thrilling day out with family or friends. Rotorua Rafting can tailor trips for groups large or small, ensuring everyone experiences the rush of Kaituna’s rapids. With every twist and turn, you’ll discover why this river holds such a special place in New Zealand’s adventure scene.

KEY DETAILS

Rotorua Rafting runs trips on the Kaituna River every day throughout the year!
During summer, trips depart at 9am, 10.30am, 12pm, 1.30pm, and 3pm, with additional times available upon request.
For the 10.30am and 1.30pm summer trips, there are no transfers provided – guests should drive directly to our base.
Winter trips (1st May - 31st Aug) depart at 10am, 12pm, and 2pm.
The trip duration is approximately 2 hours, with 1 hour on the river.
We supply wetsuits, booties, helmets, buoyancy aids, and plenty of fun!
Don't forget to bring your smile, screams, swimwear, and towel.

Experience Grade 5 excitement!

All rafters need to be reasonably fit. Unfortunately, we can't take pregnant individuals or those with specific medical conditions. If you have any queries about this, please get in touch.

All participants should understand that they'll be rafting on a genuine river with genuine risks. We're experienced experts and will make sure you have an amazing time. However, raft flips are common, and occasionally, individuals may get injured, usually from paddle hits or not following guide instructions to tuck their chins on waterfalls.

Weight limit: 130kg