Waiohine Gorge Whitewater Rafting by Wellington WhiteWater
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have a reasonable level of fitness to paddle and swim and handle moderate rapids.
Overview
Take to the skies for a helicopter ride before tackling 15 kilometers of thrilling whitewater in Waiohine Gorge. Wellington WhiteWater Adventures delivers a unique wilderness rafting journey packed with rapids, wildlife, and remote riverside lunch spots.
Helicopter Access Waiohine Gorge Whitewater Rafting
Age 10+ • 5 hrs • Grade 2+ • Premium Wilderness Adventure
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About This Adventure
Embark on a thrilling 5-hour wilderness adventure in the stunning Waiohine Gorge! Experience a breathtaking helicopter ride, navigate 15 kilometers of exhilarating grade 2+ rapids, and enjoy a riverside lunch on a secluded beach. This unforgettable journey promises excitement, natural beauty, and cherished moments with loved ones.
This is a must do experience!
Duration
5 Hours
About
Fly in and raft out - join us for a premium wilderness adventure along the Waiohine Gorge set in the heart of the Tararua Range and make memories for a lifetime! Take a helicopter ride across the rugged Wairarapa terrain and join our guides on a tour through the beautiful and isolated Waiohine Gorge. This river adventure is busy and jam packed full of rapids. An exciting river trip with astonishing flora and fauna along the way. This is a must do experience!
This trip is an epic way to bond with family and friends while rafting 15 kms of grade 2+ rapids. We stop half way down the river to enjoy lunch on a secluded gravel beach, and get your heart pumping with rock jumps and river swimming!
Please be advised that we reserve the rights to cancel, refund or reschedule your trip if the weather or the river conditions are not ideal for the experience
More information
We offer a return shuttle service to and from wellington CBD for $100 per person
What to Bring
- Quick dry shorts/swimwear
- Towel and warm clothes to change into
- Any personal medications
Adventure Tips
Wear quick-dry clothing
A swimsuit or quick-dry shorts will keep you comfortable during the river sections and swim breaks.
Listen closely to safety briefings
Guides provide crucial instructions for navigating rapids safely—pay attention to get the most out of your trip.
Prepare for weather changes
Mountain weather is unpredictable; bring a waterproof layer and warm clothes for post-rafting comfort.
Hydrate before and after rafting
Physical exertion on the river requires good hydration to maintain energy and focus.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Blue duck (whio)
- Freshwater eel
History
The Waiohine Gorge area has longstanding significance to local Māori and is part of the Tararua Range, an important conservation zone established in the early 20th century.
Conservation
Wellington WhiteWater Adventures actively promotes low-impact practices and respects river flow health, supporting regional conservation efforts.
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Adventure Hotspots in Wellington
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Quick-dry swimwear
Keeps you comfortable and dries quickly after river swims.
summer specific
Waterproof jacket
Protects against rain and wind, especially coming off the river.
fall specific
Water shoes or sturdy sandals
Offers protection and grip on wet, rocky riverbeds.
Thermal layer
Provides warmth during colder months when air and water temperatures drop.
winter specific