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Rotorua Rafting: Kaituna River White Water Rafting & Free Sauna

Recommended by 100% of travelers
Rotorua, New Zealand
Viator Experience Award
High interest
Booked 10+ times today.
  • 2 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
  • Mobile ticket
  • Offered in: English

Why travelers loved this

5.0
·
· Sara_E ·
Mar 2026
The guides were knowledgeable, funny, friendly, set clear expectations, and we never felt unsafe even though the potential for danger was around the corner. They were quick to respond to emails and the shuttle service was worth the price. The river water is much warmer than you think! Make sure you jump out and swim over the rapid when they give you the chance! Definitely recommend!
· Guy_H ·
Mar 2026
The staff at the office and on the rafting were excellent. Clear, calm and humorous instructions from the outset made us feel safe. The rafter guides were very professional. We felt in good hands throughout, which enabled us to really enjoy the thrills of going down the waterfalls both in the raft, and also swimming. we loved it!

Overview

Go on an adrenaline-filled rafting excursion down the Kaituna River on a half-day adventure tour from Rotorua. The river tumbles past a subtropical rainforest lining a deep canyon. Raft over Tutea Falls—a thrilling experience for first-time or experienced rafters. The tour operates in all seasons and there are several departure times daily so you can choose one that suits your schedule.
  • Wetsuit, booties, and helmet are provided
  • No rafting experience is required although repeat rafters will love it
  • Bring swimwear, a towel, and a change of clothes
  • Rotorua hotel transfers can be arranged for an extra fee

What's Included

  • Professional rafting guide
  • All equipment (wetsuit, helmet, booties, buoyancy aid, paddle)
  • GST (Goods & Services Tax)
  • Hotel pickup & drop-off available on request for the 9am, 12pm and 3pm tour.
  • Free Sauna
  • Swimwear and towel
  • Food & drinks

Meeting and Pickup

Meeting point

  • 761 State Highway 33, Okere Falls 3074, New Zealand

    Please drive into the Rotorua Rafting carpark and park. You are supposed to arrive 15 minutes before your departure time. i.e. 8:45am for a 9am departure

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

1

Rotorua Rafting

2 hours Admission Ticket Included

Additional Info

  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Stroller accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Transportation is wheelchair accessible
  • Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Not recommended for travelers with back problems
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
  • Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
  • Age limit: Minimum 10 yrs. 10-12 yr olds, will partake in the half river experience. They will walk with the photographer to the half way point and join the raft below Tutea Falls.
  • Grade 5 action
  • 1 hour is spent on the river, allow 2 hours for the trip.
  • During the summer months, the river can reach temperatures of 25 degrees.
  • Transfers from Rotorua, must be prebooked 24 hrs prior at a cost of $15pp by calling 0800 772 384.
  • By accepting this Risk Disclosure, you at this moment acknowledge that in participating on a trip run by Rotorua Rafting, there are inherent dangers and risks and that while Rotorua Rafting will use a high degree of skill in ensuring the safety and welfare of participants, it will not be responsible for loss, injury or damage sustained by a participant or their dependents in circumstances where the exercise of reasonable care could not have avoided such an event. While the staff and management of Rotorua Rafting will take all practicable steps to identify and minimise potential dangers, I acknowledge that I must follow the guide's instructions and use the safety equipment when instructed. If I am responsible for a person under 18, I must ensure that the underage person follows the Guides' instructions at all times. I release and indemnify Rotorua Rafting and its staff from any responsibility or consequences resulting from my failure to follow Rotorua Rafting instructions or the failure of any underage person accompanying me to follow the Guides' instructions. Rotorua Rafting reserves the right to withdraw any person who, in their opinion, is likely to endanger themselves or others. This exclusion includes the overuse of alcohol and/or recreational drugs. I also recognise that Rotorua Rafting reserves the right to cancel, modify, or curtail any trip if my safety or that of any other person becomes a concern. I am aware that Rafting is an Adventure Activity with a degree of risk inherent to the grade of the river being rafted, and participation in a “Rotorua Rafting Tour" may have extreme dangers and risks, some of which include: River Hazards - Rivers are dynamic environments with hidden risks in their natural state and have many obstacles and severe hazards that may not have been identified before, examined and identified Raft Flipping - which may frequently occur in certain rivers Weather - weather conditions may be extreme and change rapidly without warning. Vehicle - additional risks are posed by road travel. Conduct of the Guide - the behaviour of the Guide and the Guiding Staff and the conduct of other rafters. I willingly accept all the risks of rafting, including the risks described above and the possibility of personal injury, death, property damage or loss resulting from any reason. I acknowledge that the enjoyment and excitement of rafting are derived partly from rafting on grade 5 rivers. The inherent risks of rafting contribute to such joy and excitement. I accept that Rotorua Rafting is not responsible for any loss or damage to my property, disruption to travel plans, or mental injury. This exclusion is subject to any rights or remedies a customer has under Health and Safety at Work (Adventure Activities) Regulations 2017 or any other New Zealand law. By accepting this Risk Disclosure, I confirm that I am of the Age of Majority and that I have read and understood this Agreement and agree that this Agreement will be binding upon my heirs, next of kin, executors, administrators and successors. If under 18 years, the parent or legal guardian must accept this Risk Disclosure.
  • Free Sauna
  • Weight limit of 130kg
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 30 travelers

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

Traveler Photos

Gallery picture 1 (from a traveler's review)
Gallery picture 2 (from a traveler's review)
Gallery picture 3 (from a traveler's review)
Gallery picture 4 (from a traveler's review)
Gallery picture 5 (from a traveler's review)

Featured review

Mark_D
This experience was well run, efficient and one of the most amazing adventures! The team at Rotorua rafting were engaging, funny, professional and very knowledgeable about the river, the culture and safety! Could not recommend this more highly! My only advice, stand up when you’re told too, jump in the water when you’re told too and swim when you can! Don’t miss the adventure by staying in the boat ;)

Reviews

5.0
based on 2,081 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

Go rafting!

Heather_B, Mar 2026
Such a great time! Loved it and would do it again. The water was beautiful and the scenery is amazing.

Ask for Tor, you will thank me after.

Johany_R, Mar 2026
I had an incredible experience rafting in Rotorua, and a huge part of that was thanks to Tor, our guide. From the very beginning, it was clear that he genuinely loves what he does—and it shows in every detail of the experience he creates. While other guides seemed to stick to just paddling through, Tor went above and beyond to make the ride unforgettable. He took the time to add all the fun extras—surfing the rapids, “the bull,” balancing, jumping—things that made the whole experience exciting and unique. You could tell he wasn’t just doing his job; he was making sure we had the best time possible. What I appreciated most was how clear and easy his instructions were to follow, especially for someone like me who can’t swim. I felt safe the entire time, which allowed me to fully enjoy the adventure without worry. That balance of fun and safety really stood out. I’ve done rafting in several other countries, and without a doubt, Tor has been the best guide I’ve ever had. Not just skilled, but also a genuinely good person who puts real effort into making your experience special. Thank you, Tor, for going the extra mile and making this such a memorable adventure. — Johany

Response from Host, Mar 2026

Thanks for choosing Rotorua Rafting, Johany! We really appreciate the 5-star rating and the detailed feedback. See you next time!

Awesome experience

Christopher_A, Mar 2026
Awesome experience highly recommend great company alot of part time comedians and full time good guys n gals

Response from Host, Mar 2026

Mighty thanks for joining us, Christopher! We’re rapt that you had such a blast with the team. Cheers!

A great and thrilling experience!

Guy_H, Mar 2026
The staff at the office and on the rafting were excellent. Clear, calm and humorous instructions from the outset made us feel safe. The rafter guides were very professional. We felt in good hands throughout, which enabled us to really enjoy the thrills of going down the waterfalls both in the raft, and also swimming. we loved it!

Response from Host, Mar 2026

Thanks for joining us on the water! It’s awesome to hear you loved every minute of the raft drops and the river swimming. Thanks for coming along.

A must do!

Christina_R, Mar 2026
Oh my goodness. Best activity EVER! Incredible experience and will never forget it. The guides were amazing, safety always came first, and I would do it again in a heartbeat. Where else can I say that I actually went down to 20 foot waterfall? Or swam down another waterfall?

Response from Host, Mar 2026

Thanks for the amazing review, Christina! We’ll be ready for you whenever you’re ready to do it all again!

Couldn’t get enough!

NATALIE_G, Mar 2026
Water was not nearly as cold as I was worried about in March. It was actually really nice temp! The whole experience was great just wish it was longer! Very experienced and professional staff.

Response from Host, Mar 2026

Thanks for choosing Rotorua Rafting! March is a beautiful time to be on the river, and we're thrilled you had such a great time that you couldn't get enough! Hopefully, we'll see you back at Okere Falls for a second helping of adrenaline soon.

Amazing experience with...

Tessa_v, Mar 2026
Amazing experience with Rotorua Rafting! The guides were friendly, professional, and made us feel safe at all times. The scenery was stunning and the rafting itself was exciting and fun. Definitely a must-do!

Response from Host, Mar 2026

Thanks for sharing your experience, Tessa! We are so glad to hear that rafting with us was such an amazing highlight for you. We hope to see you back at Okere Falls for another splash soon!

This is a must do when in...

KRISTEL_Q, Mar 2026
This is a must do when in roturua. The guides are so much fun and kept us safe. If you are looking for a thrill this is the thing to do.

Response from Host, Mar 2026

Thanks for joining us on the water! Take care on your travels!

Highlight of the trip

Nataliya_H, Mar 2026
Amazing rafting experience! The crew was fun, professional, and made the whole trip unforgettable. They kept everyone safe while making sure we had a great time on the river. Highly recommend!

Response from Host, Mar 2026

Thanks for sharing your experience, Nataliya! We are so glad to hear that rafting with us was the highlight of your trip. Thanks for the recommendation!

A must do activity. The...

Brenda_C, Mar 2026
A must do activity. The only place you can experience level 5 white water rafting. Recommend you sit at the back if you prefer to get less wet and not submerged during the activity.

Response from Host, Mar 2026

Thanks for sharing your experience! Tackling Grade 5 rapids is definitely a bucket-list item, and we love that you enjoyed the thrill. Take care on your travels.

Incredible! The entire...

Marisa_F, Mar 2026
Incredible! The entire team was so friendly and made everyone feel comfortable and excited for the adventure. Justyn was hands-down so much fun. We were lucky enough to have to guide us down the river, we all had a blast. Definitely do if you are in the area!

Response from Host, Mar 2026

Thanks for choosing to raft with us! We’re so glad you enjoyed the experience and would recommend it to others. We hope to see you back for another round soon!

Great fun rafting down the river and waterfall.

Paul_C, Mar 2026
An absolute great experience. Such fun! Really well organised and George who was in charge of our raft was informatiive and very patient (with me) 😂

Response from Host, Mar 2026

Thanks for joining us on the water! We'll be sure to pass your kind words on to George. Thanks for coming along!

Skilled guides, great adventure!

Kathy_F, Mar 2026
Guides are highly skilled, supportive and fun! Great experience for adventurous souls and those who want to feel safe while having an experience of a lifetime.

Response from Host, Mar 2026

Thanks for choosing to raft with us! We love that you highlighted the skill and support of our guides. We hope to raft with you again soon!

Fun experience!

Sara_E, Mar 2026
The guides were knowledgeable, funny, friendly, set clear expectations, and we never felt unsafe even though the potential for danger was around the corner. They were quick to respond to emails and the shuttle service was worth the price. The river water is much warmer than you think! Make sure you jump out and swim over the rapid when they give you the chance! Definitely recommend!

Response from Host, Mar 2026

Thanks for sharing your experience, Sara! We are so glad to hear you felt safe and well-informed while having a laugh with our guides. Thanks for coming along!

The time of our lives!!!

Shelby_C, Mar 2026
Justin was our guide and he was FANTASTIC! He was professional, knowledgeable, experienced, confident, and fun! He explained clearly what he needed from us to have a successful rafting trip including the 21 ft waterfall. Our waterfall experience was amazing!!! The whole rafting trip was a blast. I wanted to do it again the next day but we couldn’t fit it in. 😂 All you need is your swimsuit (they have changing rooms), a towel, and a good attitude. They provide water shoes and a wetsuit if you need it. I wore the wet suit jacket (not the bottoms) and wished I had gone without. The water was 73 degrees. It felt so good. I should have just gone in my swimsuit as the wetsuit was a bit constrictive when paddling. The photographer took great pics of the experience. The photo package includes all pics and is super responsible. They were emailed that evening. They were fun to share on socials and with friends in the states. Justin surprised us with some fun photo ops while on the water. You will ENJOY! I don’t want to blow the surprise. BOOK IT AND YOU WON’T REGRET IT!!! Rafting trip of a lifetime!

Response from Host, Mar 2026

Massive thanks for the review, Shelby! It sounds like Justin gave you an absolutely world-class experience on the Kaituna. Catch ya for round two whenever you’re back in NZ!

Jealousy

todd_s, Mar 2026
Great day and amazing guide Jack. The way he casually through my partner back into the boat was breathtaking for her

Response from Host, Mar 2026

High fives, Todd! We’re absolutely stoked you had a great day out there. Massive thanks for sharing that epic highlight.

Will recommend as a first timer

J2L2, Mar 2026
First time white water rafting and it was very fun - i would definitely do it again. The river water was fresh and clean. The team made us feel safe, our raft did not flip at the 7m drop. The water was 21 degrees, but wearing the jacket and bottom and shoes - might have been an overkill but the water felt cool and crisp. All equipment looks new and safe.

Response from Host, Mar 2026

Massive thanks for the review! It sounds like you had the perfect introduction to rafting. We love hearing that the team made you feel confident and that you’re already keen to do it again. Catch ya for round two!

Rafting Kaituna

Nicole_W, Mar 2026
My hubby and I have never done white water rafting but this was a BLAST. I’d say it was the most fun thing we did during our 2 weeks in NZ. All of the guides have such a great sense of humor but also do a great job keeping everyone safe. Our guide was Sasha, he was fantastic and hilarious. They all want you to have a great time and they take so many pics of the adventure. The 7 meter drop was so cool!

Response from Host, Mar 2026

Bloody legend, Nicole! It’s choice to hear that you and your hubby had the time of your lives on the Kaituna. Thanks for making us a highlight of your NZ trip!

River water for breakfast

Kaia_H, Feb 2026
Absolutely amazing experience! Am travel solo for the forest time and this was such a fun thing to do.

Response from Host, Feb 2026

Bloody legend, Kaia! We’re rapt that you had such an amazing experience with us. Solo travel is all about diving into new adventures, and we're stoked we could be a fun part of your journey. Cheers for taking the plunge with us!

Roaring Rotorua

Mukesh_M, Feb 2026
Excellent ride with a confident guide Luca. We had a fun filled experience with thriller. Luca our guide steered the raft nicely and we never had to fall out of water.

Response from Host, Feb 2026

High fives, Mukesh! We’re stoked you had such a fun-filled thriller out on the river. Massive thanks for the 5 stars and for joining the mission!

Still buzzing!

Martin_O, Feb 2026
One of my favorite activity on our trip in New Zealand! From beginning to end, they stress safety and fun. I was nervous going in but our guide Lucas and the rest of the staff provided very clear directions and going over a 21ft (7m) waterfall is one of the best things I’ve ever done. The buzz still hasn’t worn off (a day later). Highly recommend this company and this adventure!

Response from Host, Feb 2026

Massive thanks for the review, Martin! It’s awesome to hear that taking on the world's highest commercially rafted waterfall was one of the best things you’ve ever done. Lucas will be stoked to hear he helped turn your nerves into a highlight of your holiday. See you back for round two whenever you need another buzz!

great fun rafting

Zachary_J, Feb 2026
Great experience. Lots of good rapids and falls to go over. Guides were well trained and fun. Bring a bathing suit and towel. They will provide wet suits and shoes as needed.

Response from Host, Feb 2026

Massive thanks for the review, Zachary! We’re glad the rapids and falls hit the spot for you. Thanks for sharing the gear tips for other travelers, and we hope to see you back on the Kaituna soon!

21 Ft Falls River Rafting

Josephine_E, Feb 2026
It looks more intimidating than it truly is. The facility is organized and well run. The guides are top notch. This was an affordable fun time and would highly recommend it.

Response from Host, Feb 2026

Massive thanks for the review, Josephine! We pride ourselves on making the world's highest commercially rafted waterfall accessible and fun for everyone, so it’s great to hear you found it more thrilling than scary. See you back for round two whenever you're ready!

We had a fantastic time...

Victoria_A, Feb 2026
We had a fantastic time on our white water rafting experience! Would absolutely come back and do it again the next time we’re in town. Great staff and guides!!

Response from Host, Feb 2026

High fives, Victoria! We’re stoked you had such a fantastic time on the river with us. We’ll be ready and waiting for round two the next time you’re in town!

The drop of death .....just kidding , not really .

Lorne_G, Feb 2026
What an awesome experience !! From start to finish this group of young people were entertaining / professional and over all great hosts . It was an adrenaline rush like no other ! Great bang for your buck too . I will highly recommend to anyone wether you are a white water enthusiast or not .

Response from Host, Feb 2026

High fives, Lorne! Whether it's your first time or you're a total river enthusiast, that drop always delivers the goods. Cheers for recommending us to the world.

Great guides, beautiful...

Chad_S, Feb 2026
Great guides, beautiful water and scenery. The falls and rapids a great added bonus to such a beautiful place

Response from Host, Feb 2026

We’re stoked you enjoyed the experience. Massive thanks for the 5 stars and for joining us on the river!

One of the best...

Hayley_F, Feb 2026
One of the best experiences of my life. We had an absolute ball. Our guide Jesper was friendly, allowed us to jump in and float over some rapids if we wished. We did this activity in February and the water temp was lovely, no wetsuits required but are supplied if desired. Absolutely recommend.

Response from Host, Feb 2026

High fives, Hayley! We’re absolutely stoked to hear that the Kaituna was one of the best experiences of your life. We’re glad you felt right at home on the water. Catch ya for another round soon!

Awesome!

Chase_C, Feb 2026
What a great experience. It is something you really should do if possible. Luca was such a fun tour guide.

Response from Host, Feb 2026

High fives, Chase! We’re absolutely stoked you had such an awesome experience on the Kaituna. Catch ya for round two whenever you're back in town!

Fan F _ _ _ ing Tastick

ANNE_K, Feb 2026
First, I thought I had to cancel my reservation, but Rotorua Rafting made it happen for me. I’m so glad they did. I had an amazing time. EVERYONE who worked there helped to make all the rafters comfortable and we worked together as a team for an awesome adventure. EVERYTHING went smoothly from the pick up at the cruise port to the drop off. Instructions were clear mixed with levity. The guide (Tor) made me feel confident and secure during the trip. I HIGHLY recommend Rotorua Rafting.

Response from Host, Feb 2026

Bloody brilliant to hear we could make it work for you, Anne! We’re stoked you didn't have to miss out on the mission. Catch ya on the next one!

Highlight of our trip so far!

Kathleen_R, Feb 2026
Our group of 6 had a fabulous time! Exhilarating! Everything was wonderful from the transport from cruise ship to the river, Tom our guide and the whole team were awesome. Highly recommend!

Response from Host, Feb 2026

Stoked to hear we’ve been the highlight of your trip so far! Truly appreciate the recommendation and we hope the rest of your voyage is just as epic!

From $79.32

per person

up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)

Book ahead!
On average, this is booked 36 days in advance.

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