Experience the thrill of white water rafting in Rotorua with Kaituna Cascades — the original Kaituna River rafting company operating since 1991.
Kaituna Cascades offers some of the best white water rafting Rotorua experiences for thrill seekers, adventure travellers, and first-time rafters alike.
Based at Okere Falls in Rotorua, Kaituna Cascades delivers unforgettable rafting adventures on the world-famous Kaituna River, home to the highest commercially rafted waterfall on the planet — the incredible 7 metre Tutea Falls.
With experienced local guides, epic Grade 5 rapids, warm water canyons, and breathtaking native scenery, Kaituna Cascades offers one of New Zealand’s most exciting rafting experiences.
Why Choose Kaituna Cascades?
- Original Kaituna River rafting operator since 1991
- Rated the #1 rafting company in Rotorua on TripAdvisor
- Raft the world-famous 7 metre Tutea Falls
- Grade 5 white water rafting adventures
- Experienced professional rafting guides
- Warm water jungle canyon scenery
- Free Rotorua shuttle service available
- Closest rafting base to the Kaituna River
- Great for first-time rafters and adrenaline seekers
- Locally owned and operated in Rotorua
Kaituna River Grade 5 Rafting
Join the original Kaituna rafting company for one of the best white water rafting experiences in New Zealand.
Your adventure takes you through a spectacular warm water canyon packed with fast-flowing rapids, technical drops, and lush native forest scenery before tackling the legendary Tutea Falls.
During your rafting trip you’ll experience:
- 14 exciting rapids
- The world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall
- Tight twisting canyon sections
- Stunning native bush scenery
- Fun and professional local guides
This unforgettable rafting adventure is perfect for thrill seekers, adventure travellers, groups, couples, and first-time rafters wanting an epic Rotorua experience.
No prior rafting experience is necessary as full safety training is provided before your trip.
What’s Included?
Kaituna Cascades provides everything you need for your rafting experience including:
- Professional rafting guides
- Custom-built rafting equipment
- Wetsuits and wetsuit booties
- Helmets and lifejackets
- Fleece tops and splash jackets
- Paddles and safety gear
- Comprehensive safety briefing
- Free Rotorua shuttle service
All you need to bring is swimwear, a towel, and a sense of adventure.
Rotorua White Water Rafting Trip Information
Duration
Allow approximately 2 hours including training and rafting time.
River Time
Approximately 50 minutes on the water.
Daily Departures
8:30 am (summer only)
10:30 am (pick-up at 10:00 am)
12:30 pm (self-drive only)
2:30 pm (pick-up at 2:00 pm)
4:30 pm (summer only)
Location
18 Okere Falls Road, Okere Falls, Rotorua
Our rafting base is located directly beside the Kaituna River, meaning no long bus rides or waiting around in wetsuits.
Age & Weight Requirements
• Minimum age 13 years
• Half tours available for ages 10–12 years below the falls
• Maximum weight 120kg
Rotorua Rafting Combo Adventures
Looking for the ultimate rafting adventure in New Zealand?
The Kaituna and Wairoa rafting combo combines two of the country’s most exciting white water rivers into one adrenaline-packed day.
Experience:
- Grade 5 Wairoa River rapids
- Technical boulder gardens and waterfalls
- The famous Kaituna River and Tutea Falls
- Two completely different rafting experiences in one day
This is one of Rotorua’s most epic rafting adventures for experienced thrill seekers.
Please note – This is an exciting grade 5 rafting experience and is not suited for older or bigger people, or people that aren’t comfortable in the water. We have a weight limit of 120 kg’s.
Group White Water Rafting in Rotorua
Kaituna Cascades is a popular choice for:
- Corporate groups
- Team building events
- School groups
- Sports teams
- Stag and hen parties
- Birthday celebrations
- End-of-year functions
Our sunny Okere Falls rafting base offers plenty of space for groups to relax before and after rafting with picnic tables, grassy areas, bean bags, BBQ facilities, and nearby walking trails.
We’re also the closest rafting company to the river, meaning less waiting and more time on the water.
Contact us directly for group discounts and special rates.
Explore Rotorua & the Bay of Plenty
Kaituna Cascades is located in Okere Falls near Rotorua — one of New Zealand’s leading adventure destinations.
Alongside rafting, Rotorua is famous for geothermal attractions, mountain biking, ziplining, lakes, hiking trails, Māori cultural experiences, and adventure tourism.
Planning your trip? Discover more activities, accommodation, and travel inspiration in our Bay of Plenty Travel Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kaituna River rafting suitable for beginners?
Yes. No prior rafting experience is required. Full safety training is provided before your trip.
How high is Tutea Falls?
Tutea Falls is 7 metres high and is the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world.
What should I bring rafting?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and a sense of adventure. All rafting equipment and safety gear are provided.
Do you provide transport from Rotorua?
Yes. Free shuttle transport to and from Rotorua is available.
Is rafting available all year?
Yes. Kaituna River rafting operates year-round.
How long does the rafting experience take?
Allow approximately 2 hours including training, changing time, and rafting.
Are your rafting guides experienced?
Absolutely. Kaituna Cascades guides are highly experienced white water professionals with strong kayaking and rafting backgrounds.
👉 Book direct with Kaituna Cascades for unforgettable white water rafting in Rotorua.
