Mount Tarawera & Kaituna Sledge Combo

Take Control on the Kaituna River’s Rapids

After the heights of Mount Tarawera, get down to river level for an adrenaline-pumping sledging session on the Kaituna. Unlike rafting, sledging puts you face-to-face with the rapids as you steer your own sledge, using flippers for propulsion. It’s a personal, fast-paced ride through foamy whitewater, native bush and swirling currents.

With professional guides by your side, this adventure is safe for first-timers yet thrilling enough for seasoned adventurers. You’ll navigate eddies, ride playholes and feel every twist of the river. It's a full-body thrill that finishes off a Rotorua day you’ll be talking about for years.

What’s Included:

Mt. Tarawera Hike

• Fully guided walking tour led by expert guides
• Stunning panoramic views from the volcanic summit
• Access to the crater, with the option to run into its heart
• Fascinating history of the 1886 eruption & Māori cultural significance
• Boot hire & walking sticks available
• Hotel pickup & drop-off (if applicable)

Kaituna River Sledging

• All river gear provided (wetsuits, jackets, booties, fins, safety equipment)
• 3-hour sledging adventure through the Kaituna rapids
• Expert Kiwi guides to keep you safe & pumped up
• Hotel pickup & drop-off (Rotorua Central)
• Professional adventure photographer capturing the action

What’s Not Included:

Photos of your adventure ($40 NZD – available for purchase on-site)

Itinerary:

Mt. Tarawera Hike

• Meeting point: Rotorua Central
• Check-in & safety briefing
• Travel to Mt. Tarawera
• Guided hiking adventure, with crater run option
• Return to Rotorua

Kaituna River Sledging

• Meeting point: Kaitiaki Adventures Base
• Check-in & safety briefing
• Gear up & travel to Ōkere Falls
• Whitewater sledging adventure!
• Return to Kaitiaki Adventures Base
• View & purchase photos

Highlights:

• Full-day adventure featuring both volcanic hiking and river sledging
• Trek across Mt. Tarawera’s dramatic crater with expert guides
• Learn about the 1886 eruption & the lost Pink and White Terraces
• Ride the rapids on a river sledge—no experience needed!
• Navigate Kaituna River’s thrilling whitewater & playholes
• All transport included for a hassle-free experience
• A perfect mix of culture, nature, and adrenaline!

Additional Information:

Check-in Details

• Complete pre-arrival waiver before arrival
• Self-drive guests: Arrive 15 minutes before trip time
• Pickup guests: Be ready 30 minutes before trip time

What to Bring:

For the Mt. Tarawera Hike:

• Sturdy walking shoes
• Water bottle & snacks
• Comfortable clothing
• Sunscreen (summer) / Wool hat & gloves (winter)

For River Sledging:

• Swimwear & towel
• A sense of adventure!

Special Requirements:

• Changing rooms with lockers available (Sledging)
• Self-drive option available
• Courtesy transport available from Rotorua Central accommodations
• Photos available for purchase on-site or online after your trip

Restrictions:

Hiking & sledging are NOT suitable for:

• Children under 13 years
• Pregnant women
• Those with heart conditions or back problems
• You must be comfortable in moving water for sledging

Cancellation Policy:

• 48+ hours notice: 20% cancellation fee**
• 24–48 hours notice: 100% cancellation fee
• No-shows: Charged in full

Note: **Refund excludes credit card or payment fees if applicable, which are non-refundable.

Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.*