Guided, Safe and Packed with Local Flavour
This six-hour adventure blends heart-pounding fun with cultural richness, thanks to passionate local guides who share the river’s Māori heritage throughout the journey. From your first paddle stroke to your last wave dive, you're supported by professionals who keep things safe, fun and full of good vibes. The scenery, the stories, and the adrenaline are all dialled up to the max.
It’s the perfect combo for adventurous souls who want more than just a taste of New Zealand’s whitewater scene. With rafting and sledging back-to-back, you'll walk away drenched, exhilarated and absolutely buzzing. It’s Rotorua’s most dynamic river experience—twice the action, twice the thrill.
Key Details:
- Start Times: 8:30am, 10:30am, 12:30pm
- Duration: 6 hours (round trip)
- Meeting Point: 1135 Te Ngae Road, Tikitere, Rotorua 3074
- Group Size: Up to 12 people
- Age Requirement: 13+ (Must be comfortable in moving water)
- Double the thrills! A full-day rafting & sledging combo
- Take on 14 rapids & the legendary Tutea Falls
- Control your own sledging vessel for an up-close, interactive ride
- Stunning native bush & canyon scenery
- Learn about the Kaituna River’s Māori cultural significance
- All equipment provided for a hassle-free adventure
- Family-friendly fun (Suitable for ages 13+)
- All river equipment (Wetsuits, jackets, booties, flippers & safety gear)
- Rafting & sledging on the Kaituna River (6-hour round trip)
- Expert Kiwi guides for safety & motivation
- Free hotel pickup & drop-off (Central Rotorua)
- Professional adventure photographer capturing every moment
Photos available for purchase onsite ($50 NZD).
- Check-in & Safety Briefing – Kaitiaki Adventures Base
- Short drive to Ōkere Falls
- Rafting Adventure – Take on 14 rapids & Tutea Falls
- Return to Base for Gear Switch
- Sledging Adventure – Ride the waves at eye level!
- Return to Base – Gear Down & Check Out Your Photos
Courtesy Transport & Check-in Info:
- Pre-departure waiver must be completed before arrival
- Self-drive guests: Arrive 15 minutes before departure
- Pick-ups start 30 minutes before departure (Timing depends on location)
- Free parking available on-site
- Swimwear
- Towel
- Snacks
Changing rooms & lock boxes available onsite
Not suitable for:
- Children under 13
- Pregnant women
- Those with heart conditions or back problems
- 48+ hours notice: 20% cancellation fee**
- 24–48 hours notice: 100% cancellation fee
- No-shows: Charged in full
Note: **Any refund approved under our terms and conditions will be subject to a 5% admin & processing fee, which will be deducted from the refund amount. Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.*