Kaitiaki White water Rafting & River Sledging Adventures in Rotorua
Kaitiaki White water Rafting & River Sledging Adventures in Rotorua
Discover Kaitiaki Adventures: Whitewater Rafting & Sledging in Rotorua
Located just 11 km from the heart of Rotorua, Kaitiaki Adventures is a 100% Kiwi-owned and operated company offering world-class whitewater rafting and river sledging experiences.
With state-of-the-art gear, expert guides, and a passion for adventure, we’re here to make your journey unforgettable. Safety is our top priority, and entertainment is guaranteed!
Whitewater Rafting on the Kaituna River
Experience the thrill of rafting Rotorua’s iconic Kaituna River, a natural playground featuring steep bush-clad canyons and 13 breathtaking drops.
Conquer the 7-meter Tutea Falls, the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall, and soak up the adrenaline as you navigate these exhilarating rapids. Perfect for first-timers and rafting enthusiasts alike, this adventure blends Māori culture, local history, and pure excitement for a truly memorable trip.
Kaituna Whitewater Sledging
For a unique twist on whitewater adventures, try our Kaituna River Sledging. Guided by our expert team, you’ll ride through rapids and play holes while enjoying stunning scenery.
No experience is required, and with all equipment provided, it’s an adventure anyone can enjoy. This 3-hour round trip includes approximately 1 hour of on-water excitement.
We operate 7 days a week and provide courtesy transport to ensure your adventure runs smoothly from start to finish. Whether you’re seeking thrills or a deeper connection to Rotorua’s natural beauty and culture, Kaitiaki Adventures delivers an unforgettable experience.
Kaitiaki Rafting – Kaituna Whitewater Rafting Adventure
Price: $146.25 per person
Departs: 8:30 am – 12:30 pm & 2:30 pm
Duration: Three HoursEmbark on a thrilling whitewater rafting journey with Kaitiaki Adventures, the ultimate experience on Rotorua’s Kaituna River.
This 3-hour round trip takes you through 14 exhilarating rapids and over three stunning waterfalls, including the 7-meter Tutea Falls, the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall.
Guided by world-class Kiwi guides, this adventure blends adrenaline-pumping action with a touch of Maori culture, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned whitewater enthusiasts.
No prior experience is required—our expert team will provide comprehensive training and ensure your safety every step of the way.
Kaitiaki Rafting – Kaituna Whitewater Sledging
Price: $151.50 per person
Departs: 8:30 am – 12:30 pm & 2:30 pm
Duration: Three HoursExperience the thrill of whitewater sledging, where you’re in control of your own journey down the Kaituna River.
As New Zealand’s original whitewater sledging specialists since 1989, Kaitiaki Adventures offers an unmatched adventure that lets you navigate Grade 3 rapids and play holes at eye level.
Propel yourself through the water with flippers on your feet, taking in the stunning scenery as you tackle the river head-on.
Perfect for thrill-seekers and first-timers alike, our qualified guides are on hand to motivate, assist, and ensure your safety throughout this unique, hands-on adventure.
Kaitiaki Rafting – Kaituna Raft & Sledge Combo
Price: $247.26 per person
Departs: 8:30 am & 12:30 pm
Duration: Six HoursExperience the ultimate whitewater adventure with our Kaituna Raft & Sledge Combo, combining two thrilling activities into one action-packed day!
Begin your journey by tackling the Kaituna River’s Grade 5 rapids, navigating through 14 exciting rapids and over three stunning waterfalls, including the world-renowned 7-meter Tutea Falls, the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world.
After an adrenaline-fueled rafting experience, switch gears and take the river on at eye level with our Grade 3 sledging adventure.
Using flippers on your feet and a specialised sledge, you’ll propel yourself through playful rapids and pristine native bush for a truly intimate and immersive journey.
This combo is perfect for thrill-seekers looking to experience the best of Rotorua’s whitewater adventures in one unforgettable day.
Kaitiaki Rafting – Kaituna River & Mt. Tarawera Combo
Price: $352.48 per person
Departs: 8:15 am
Duration: A full day adventure
Experience the ultimate adventure in Rotorua with Kaitiaki’s full-day combo tour that blends volcanic exploration and whitewater thrills!
Start your day with a guided walking tour of Mt. Tarawera, a dramatic volcanic landscape rich in history and natural beauty.
Explore the volcanic crater, soak in 360° panoramic views, and uncover the mountain’s deep cultural and spiritual significance to the local Maori iwi (tribes) through fascinating stories shared by your expert guide.
After conquering Mt. Tarawera, switch gears for an adrenaline-pumping whitewater rafting experience on the Kaituna River.
Navigate 14 thrilling rapids, including the world-famous 7-meter Tutea Falls, the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world.
With top-of-the-line gear and world-class guides, you’ll feel safe, exhilarated, and inspired as you tackle the river’s twists, turns, and breathtaking scenery.
Whether you’re craving adventure, cultural discovery, or both, this crater-to-river combo promises an unforgettable day of exploration and excitement.
All transportation is included, making it easy to enjoy the best of Rotorua in one incredible experience.
Why Choose Kaitiaki Adventures for Whitewater Rafting & Sledging in Rotorua?
Kaitiaki Adventures offers an unparalleled whitewater rafting and sledging experience in the heart of Rotorua.
Whether you’re conquering the world-famous 7-meter Tutea Falls, navigating thrilling Grade 5 rapids, or immersing yourself in the cultural and natural beauty of Mt. Tarawera, every tour promises excitement, adventure, and unforgettable memories.
With expert Kiwi guides, top-of-the-line gear, and a commitment to both safety and fun, Kaitiaki Adventures is your ultimate choice for Rotorua whitewater adventures.
Perfect for first-time adventurers and seasoned thrill-seekers alike, these tours are designed to provide a unique mix of adrenaline, culture, and stunning scenery.
Book your Kaitiaki rafting or sledging adventure today, and experience the very best of Rotorua’s waterways and landscapes!
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FAQ for Kaitiaki Adventures Whitewater Rafting & Sledging
1. What makes the Kaituna River rafting experience unique?
The Kaituna River is home to Tutea Falls, the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall at 7 meters. Along with 13 rapids and breathtaking bush-clad gorges, this tour blends adrenaline-pumping action with insights into Māori culture and history, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
2. What is whitewater sledging, and how is it different from rafting?
Whitewater sledging (also called riverboarding) puts you in control of your own journey. Using a specialized sledge and flippers, you navigate rapids at eye level, making it a more personal and immersive adventure compared to group rafting.
3. Can beginners try the Kaituna Rafting & Mt. Tarawera Combo?
Yes! The combo is designed for adventurers of all levels. The Mt. Tarawera hike features guided storytelling and panoramic views, while the rafting portion includes full safety briefings and guidance to ensure an exciting yet accessible experience.
4. What should I expect on the Kaituna & Mt. Tarawera Combo?
This full-day adventure combines a scenic volcanic hike on Mt. Tarawera with an adrenaline-fueled rafting trip on the Kaituna River. You’ll explore the dramatic crater landscape, learn about the Māori significance of the volcano, and conquer thrilling rapids, including Tutea Falls.
5. How long do the rafting and sledging trips last?
- Whitewater Rafting: Approx. 3 hours (round trip), including a safety briefing and time on the water.
- Whitewater Sledging: Also approx. 3 hours, with around 1 hour navigating the river.
- Raft & Sledge Combo: 6 hours, combining both activities for a day packed with adventure.
6. Is whitewater sledging safe for beginners?
Absolutely! Our expert guides provide comprehensive training and will assist you throughout the trip. All necessary equipment, including wetsuits and helmets, is provided to ensure your safety.
7. What is the minimum age for Kaitiaki rafting and sledging?
Participants must be at least 10 years old for rafting and sledging. Some tours may have additional weight or fitness requirements for safety.
8. Can I combine multiple tours in one day?
Yes! The Kaituna Raft & Sledge Combo is designed to let you experience the best of both worlds in one action-packed day. You can also add the Mt. Tarawera hike for a full-day adventure.
9. What cultural elements are included in Kaitiaki tours?
Our guides share stories about the Māori iwi (tribes) and the spiritual significance of both the Kaituna River and Mt. Tarawera, enriching your adventure with cultural and historical insights.
10. What happens if the weather is bad?
Most tours run rain or shine, as getting wet is part of the fun! In cases of severe weather, we’ll reschedule your trip or provide a refund to ensure your safety.