Rotorua Rafting – River Adventures & Tours

Experience unforgettable Rotorua river rafting with Rotorua Rafting, where thrilling white water, spectacular native scenery and authentic Māori cultural connections combine for an extraordinary New Zealand adventure.

Based at Ōkere Falls, approximately 20 minutes from central Rotorua, this locally owned adventure company offers guided rafting experiences on the famous Kaituna River. Navigate exciting rapids, discover lush forest gorges and experience the breathtaking 7-metre Tutea Falls, recognised as the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall.

Founded by champion kayaker Sam Sutton, Rotorua Rafting combines experienced local guides, quality safety equipment and genuine manaakitanga (hospitality) to create memorable experiences for first-time rafters, adventure seekers, families and groups.

Choose from exhilarating Grade 5 rafting, a shorter Grade 3 river adventure or exciting combinations featuring ziplining and geothermal hot pools.

Why Choose Rotorua Rafting?

• Exciting Rotorua river rafting – experience spectacular rapids and waterfalls on the Kaituna River.
• Locally owned and operated – founded by champion kayaker Sam Sutton, with deep connections to Ōkere Falls.
• Experienced rafting guides – professional instruction, comprehensive safety briefings and quality equipment.
• Options for different ages – full Grade 5 adventures for ages 13+ and a shorter Grade 3 experience for ages 10–12.
• More than just rafting – discover the river’s cultural significance through local stories and Māori traditions.
• Adventure combo packages – combine rafting with ziplining, kayaking or geothermal hot pools.
• Group rafting experiences – suitable for corporate teams, celebrations and groups of friends.
• Year-round adventures – rafting operates throughout the seasons, subject to river conditions.
• Excellent facilities – changing rooms, showers, an on-site sauna and complimentary parking.
• Commitment to sustainability – active involvement in native planting, environmental restoration and protecting the Ōkere environment.
• Convenient Rotorua transfers – optional transport from central Rotorua for an additional charge.

Rotorua River Rafting – Kaituna Adventure Experience

Discover one of New Zealand’s most memorable river adventures with Rotorua Rafting’s signature Kaituna experience.

The journey takes you through a beautiful native forest gorge, past dramatic rock formations and over a series of exciting rapids and waterfalls.

The full Grade 5 adventure includes 14 rapids and three waterfalls, with the spectacular 7-metre Tutea Falls providing an unforgettable highlight.

Before entering the river, your experienced guide will provide a comprehensive safety briefing, explain paddling techniques and ensure everyone is fitted with appropriate rafting equipment.

Along the way, guides share stories about the river’s history and cultural significance, creating an experience that combines adventure with a deeper connection to the surrounding environment.

Full Grade 5 Kaituna River Adventure

For visitors seeking an exhilarating challenge, the full Kaituna rafting experience combines powerful rapids, waterfall drops and beautiful forest scenery.

Highlights include:

• Navigating 14 exciting rapids
• Experiencing three waterfalls
• Rafting over the famous 7-metre Tutea Falls
• Exploring native forest gorges
• Learning about the river’s cultural significance
• Enjoying an adventure led by experienced rafting professionals

No previous rafting experience is necessary, although participants must meet the operator’s age, health and safety requirements.

Minimum age: 13 years

Total experience: Approximately 2 hours, including preparation and around 1 hour on the river.

Family-Friendly River Rafting in Rotorua

Families and younger adventurers can experience the excitement of the Kaituna River with Rotorua Rafting’s shorter Grade 3 Ōkere Awa adventure.

Designed for participants who are not taking on the full waterfall section, this experience follows the lower section of the river through a scenic native forest gorge.

The adventure begins with a guided walk through the Ōkere Reserve to the river entry point below Tutea Falls.

From there, participants join their rafting guide for approximately 30 minutes on the water, navigating nine enjoyable Grade 3 rapids.

This is a great introduction to Rotorua river rafting for younger participants and those wanting a shorter white water experience.

Grade 3 Adventure Highlights

• Suitable for children aged 10–12, subject to safety requirements
• Nine Grade 3 rapids
• Approximately 30 minutes of river time
• Scenic native forest surroundings
• Professional guides and safety equipment
• No previous rafting experience required

Rotorua Adventure Combos – Rafting, Ziplining & Hot Pools

Make the most of your visit with an exciting adventure package combining rafting with other memorable Rotorua activities.

Rotorua Rafting works with local adventure operators to offer a selection of combination experiences, allowing visitors to enjoy multiple attractions in one booking.

Rafting & Geothermal Hot Pools

Experience the excitement of the Kaituna River before relaxing in the natural geothermal waters of Lake Rotoiti.

The hot pools are accessed by water transport, adding another memorable element to your adventure.

Rafting & Ziplining

Combine an exhilarating river rafting experience with a zipline adventure through the native forest around Ōkere Falls.

Enjoy an action-packed day discovering the region’s natural environment from both the river and above the forest.

Rafting, Ziplining & Hot Pools

For visitors wanting a full day of adventure and relaxation, combine thrilling rafting, scenic ziplining and a geothermal hot pool experience.

Rafting, Kayaking & Hot Pools

Explore a multi-activity adventure featuring rafting, kayaking and time to unwind in natural hot pools.

Packages and inclusions vary. Check the operator’s website for available combinations, suitability requirements and booking options.

Group River Rafting & Corporate Adventures in Rotorua

Looking for an exciting group activity in Rotorua?

Rotorua Rafting offers memorable adventures for corporate teams, social groups and special occasions, with flexible arrangements for different group sizes and experience levels.

Group rafting is a popular option for:

• Corporate team-building activities
• Staff outings and work functions
• Sports teams and clubs
• Birthday celebrations
• Hen and stag groups
• Groups of friends
• School and youth groups meeting participation requirements

Whether your group wants an adrenaline-filled Grade 5 experience or a combination of activities, the team can help organise a memorable adventure.

Special group pricing may be available for bookings of six or more participants, and transport arrangements can be discussed when booking.

More Than Rafting – Culture, Nature & Sustainability

What makes Rotorua Rafting distinctive is its connection to the Kaituna River, the surrounding landscape and the local community.

The river, known as an awa in te reo Māori, carries important cultural and historical significance.

Throughout the adventure, guides share stories of Ōkere Falls and the Kaituna River, helping visitors appreciate the environment beyond the excitement of the rapids.

The company also places strong emphasis on environmental responsibility.

Its conservation initiatives include native tree planting, pest control and projects supporting the restoration and protection of the Ōkere environment.

By choosing Rotorua Rafting, visitors support a locally operated adventure business committed to caring for the river and surrounding natural environment.

What’s Included in Your Rotorua Rafting Experience?

Rotorua Rafting provides the essential equipment and professional guidance needed for your river adventure.

Your experience includes:

• Qualified rafting guide
• Comprehensive safety briefing
• Rafting equipment and paddles
• Wetsuit and booties
• Helmet and personal flotation device
• Access to changing facilities and showers
• Use of the on-site sauna

Professional action photographs are available to purchase after your rafting experience.

What Should You Bring?

Bring swimwear, a towel and a change of clothes.

All essential rafting equipment is supplied, so you can focus on enjoying the adventure.

Rotorua River Rafting – Important Trip Information

Location

Rotorua Rafting operates from its base at Ōkere Falls, approximately 20 minutes’ drive from central Rotorua.

Complimentary on-site parking is available.

Duration

Allow approximately two hours for the full Kaituna rafting experience, including check-in, equipment fitting, safety briefing and time on the river.

Age Requirements

• Full Grade 5 experience: Minimum age 13 years.
• Shorter Grade 3 experience: Minimum age 10 years.

All participants must meet the operator’s safety and suitability requirements.

Weight & Health Requirements

The maximum weight is 130kg.

Rafting is not suitable for pregnant participants or people with certain medical conditions. Guests should review the operator’s risk disclosure and contact the team if they have concerns about suitability.

Rotorua Transfers

Optional pickup and drop-off services are available from central Rotorua for an additional charge on selected departures.

Operating Season

Rotorua Rafting operates year-round, with departure schedules varying between summer and winter.

All trips are subject to weather, river conditions and availability.

Book Your Rotorua Rafting Adventure

Discover the excitement of Rotorua river rafting with a locally operated team passionate about adventure, culture and the natural environment.

From thrilling Grade 5 white water to family-friendly river experiences and multi-activity packages, Rotorua Rafting offers memorable ways to explore one of New Zealand’s most exciting adventure destinations.

Whether you’re travelling as a couple, with friends, as a family or with a larger group, choose the experience that suits you and book directly with the operator.

Explore Adventures & Book Direct

Explore Ōkere Falls, Rotorua & the Bay of Plenty

Rotorua Rafting is based in the scenic Ōkere Falls area, surrounded by native bush, waterways and some of the Bay of Plenty’s most beautiful natural attractions.

After your adventure, enjoy a meal or refreshments at the nearby Ōkere Falls Store, known for its relaxed atmosphere and locally inspired food.

The wider Rotorua region offers geothermal attractions, mountain biking, forest walks, Māori cultural experiences and scenic lakes.

Visitors can easily combine their rafting adventure with other activities to create a memorable Rotorua holiday.

For more accommodation, attractions and travel inspiration, explore our Bay of Plenty Travel Guide.