Rangitaiki River Rafting

North Island

River Rats Raft & Kayak

from

NZ$199

per adult

Book Now

Raft heading down a waterfall-style drop on the Upper Rangitāiki River.

Experiences

Rafting & Sledging Tours

Family-friendly Tours

Half-Day Tours

North Island

Start: 963 SH28, Murupawa

Location: Rotorua

Travel Time: 4 hours

Difficulty: 4

Minimum Age: 10 Minimum Weight: 30 kg (let us know if under 40 kg) Maximum Weight: 125 kg

Details

Rangitaiki River Rafting Adventure

Nestled in the heart of the Bay of Plenty, the Rangitaiki River offers an unforgettable mix of natural beauty and thrilling rapids. The adventure begins gently, winding through peaceful stretches of native forest alive with bird song. As the current builds, anticipation rises for the rush of white water ahead.

The Rangitaiki’s crystal-clear flow contrasts beautifully with the lush greenery lining its banks. As you paddle downstream, the energy of the river takes hold, leading you towards the famous Geoff’s Joy—a Grade 4 rapid that tests teamwork and courage. Every splash and surge reminds you why rafting here is such a highlight for adventure seekers in New Zealand.

The Excitement of Rangitaiki River Rafting

Rangitaiki River Rafting delivers the perfect balance between scenic tranquillity and heart-racing excitement. The Grade 3–4 rapids provide a satisfying challenge for both first-time rafters and experienced paddlers. Between bursts of white water, moments of calm reveal the unspoiled beauty of the surrounding forests, offering the ideal blend of relaxation and thrill.

Whether you’re chasing your next adrenaline fix or simply wanting to experience the natural wonder of New Zealand’s waterways, the Rangitaiki River promises an adventure to remember. Each twist and turn of the river invites laughter, teamwork, and lasting memories beneath the open Kiwi sky.

Two rafts floating past a waterfall on the Upper Rangitāiki River with smiling rafters.

A group of smiling rafters descending a rapid on the Upper Rangitāiki River.

A rafting crew working together through whitewater on the Upper Rangitāiki River.

A group of rafters enjoying a scenic and exciting ride through native bush on the Rangitāiki.

Rafters float down a calm section of the Upper Rangitāiki River surrounded by forest.

A raft flipping dramatically in powerful whitewater on the Upper Rangitāiki River.

A raft caught in a big wave of whitewater on the Upper Rangitāiki River in New Zealand.

Rafters raising their paddles in celebration after navigating a rapid on the Rangitāiki River.

A group of rafters paddling through turbulent whitewater on the Upper Rangitāiki River.

Group of rafters bracing through a large rapid on the Upper Rangitāiki River.

Raft navigating mild whitewater on the Upper Rangitāiki River with River Rats.

Multiple rafts journeying through fast-flowing waters and native bush on the Upper Rangitāiki.

Rafters floating through dense native bush on the Upper Rangitāiki River.

Rafting through a tight section of the Upper Rangitāiki River surrounded by dense native bush.

Two red rafts approaching rapids on the Upper Rangitāiki River surrounded by native bush.

Duration:

For Grade 3-4 trips, expect to spend about 1 hour and 45 minutes on the water, allowing around 4 hours in total (5 1/2 hours including transfers from central Rotorua).
Travel time from Rotorua for both trips is 45 minutes, and from Taupo, it's 1 hour.

INCLUSIONS

Safety helmets
Life jackets
Wetsuits
Polar fleece tops (weather permitting)
Spray jackets (weather permitting)
Wetsuit booties
Food and drinks
Hot shower

NEED TO BRING

Swimsuit and towel
Towel

Requirement:

Minimum recommended weight limit is 30kg (please inform us if any participants weigh under 40kg)
Maximum recommended weight limit is 125kg

AGE INFO

Adult: 18 years +
Children: 13-17 years
Children: 10-12 years (must be accompanied by an adult)

CANCELLATION & REFUND

INDIVIDUAL BOOKINGS

Outside 48 hours before travel: Full refund**
24-48 hours before travel: 50% cancellation fee**
Within 24 hours before travel: No refund

GROUP BOOKINGS (10 OR MORE PEOPLE)

A 10-working-day notice is required for full group cancellations to avoid charges.

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.*

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