Rafting in Rotorua

The Kaituna River is home to the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world, and it sits alongside the Wairoa River as the two rivers behind Rotorua's reputation for grade 5 white water. Our Rotorua rafting tours cover both rivers, rafting combos and white water sledging.

Grade 5 Rafting on the Kaituna River

The Grade 5 White Water Rafting on the Kaituna River, the Grade 5 White Water Rafting on the Kaituna River Adventure and the Rotorua Grade 5 Rafting on the Kaituna River each run the same 14 rapids and the 7 metre Tutea Falls, the highest commercially rafted waterfall anywhere in the world, giving you a choice of operator for the same iconic river.

Grade 5 Rafting on the Wairoa River

The Grade 5 White Water Rafting on the Wairoa River covers a second dam released river nearby, a genuine alternative or a second grade 5 outing on the same trip.

Rafting Combos and White Water Sledging

The Grade 5 Rafting Combo on the Kaituna & Wairoa Rivers covers both rivers in one outing, the Grade 5 River Rafting & Hell's Gate Mud Bath Combo pairs the Kaituna with a geothermal mud bath, the Ziplining & Grade 5 Rafting Combo adds a canopy zipline beforehand, and the White Water Sledging puts you in the same rapids on a body board rather than a raft.

Why Book Your Rotorua Rafting Trip with Everything New Zealand

We are your local travel partner across the Bay of Plenty, not the operator, so we only list rafting trips we would genuinely recommend to family and friends. Compare the Kaituna, the Wairoa and the region's rafting combos side by side, book online in a few minutes and get instant confirmation. Less scrolling, more strolling, straight into the rapids.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Kaituna River famous for rafting? The Kaituna River includes the 7 metre Tutea Falls, the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world, alongside 14 grade 5 rapids.

Why are there multiple Kaituna River rafting options? Several operators run grade 5 rafting on the same Kaituna River, so you can choose the trip and departure time that suits you best.

Is the Wairoa River rafting different from the Kaituna? Yes, the Wairoa is a separate dam released river near Rotorua, giving experienced rafters a second grade 5 option.

Can I raft both the Kaituna and Wairoa rivers in one day? Yes, the Grade 5 Rafting Combo on the Kaituna & Wairoa Rivers covers both rivers in a single outing.

What is white water sledging? White water sledging puts you in the same Kaituna River rapids on a body board rather than a raft, for a lower, more hands on ride.