Kaituna River Rafting with Kaituna Cascades Rafting
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
50 minutes on water; about 2 hours total including prep
Fitness Level
Participants should have good physical fitness with ability to paddle intensely and safely navigate class 5 rapids.
Overview
Take on New Zealand’s Kaituna River with Kaituna Cascades Rafting and tackle world-class rapids, including the highest commercial waterfall drop. Perfect for adrenaline seekers and beginners alike.
Kaituna River Rafting
Most Popular! Ages 13+ • 2hrs • Grade 5 White Water Rafting •
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About This Adventure
Experience the thrill of a lifetime on the Kaituna River, where 14 exhilarating drops await, including the stunning 7-meter Tutea Falls, the highest commercially rafted waterfall. Join expert guides for a 50-minute adventure through a breathtaking jungle canyon, perfect for both adrenaline seekers and first-time rafters.
A small booking fee applies.
The Kaituna is a white water enthusiast's dream come true. 14 awesome drops, including two waterfalls and some other great rapids in a stunning jungle setting
About
Join the Original Kaituna Rafting Company for an unbeatable grade 5 white-water experience on one of New Zealand's most exciting and beautiful rivers!
Experience the thrills and spills of the mighty Kaituna River as we take on the world-famous 7-metre Tutea Falls, the highest commercially rafted waterfall.
Together with your expert guide, your team will enjoy a 50-minute action-packed ride down 14 epic rapids in a tight and twisting warm water jungle canyon.
This is a white water enthusiasts dream and is a must-do for adrenaline junkies and 1st-time rafters alike!
No prior experience is necessary as you will be given full and comprehensive training.
All you need is a reasonable level of fitness, a sense of fun and adventure & your swimwear.
We also rent towels for $5 GoPro Chest harness rental – $5 And you can buy Glasser straps to keep for $5 Digital Photo’s of your tour – $40
Come Join us and our awesome crew!
Check-in Time Daily at 9 am, 11:45 am and 2.30 pm. (We also offer a 4:30 pm tour in the summer months - self-drive only!)
Duration A 50-minute action-packed ride down 14 epic rapids and the worlds highest rafted waterfall. Allow 2 hours in total.
Conditions Grade 5 rafting trip 13+ years - Grade 3 option available for 10-12 years. Please note that they will join the journey AFTER the waterfalls. NOT SUITABLE FOR PREGNANT WOMEN. Maximum weight is 120kgs - must be fit and healthy. Please read the Health & Safety tab at the top of this page
Location 18 Okere Falls Road, Okere Falls 3074, Rotorua, New Zealand. Our base is located on the banks of the Kaituna River and there are no long bus rides or waiting around in wet suits!
Availability All year! - Warm water in the summer and cooler in the winter (more gear provided).
What to bring Swimwear, Shorts & a sense of adventure! We are GoPro friendly. Feel free to bring yours along with a chest harness.
We provide The most entertaining & fun guides to be on the river with (and safest.), custom built rafts, wet suits, helmets, life jackets, paddles, warm fleece tops, wet suit booties and splash jackets. There is also heaps of off street parking - a volleyball net, loads of picnic tables. Shuttle available to and from Rotorua - Bookings essential.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for Check-In
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to handle gear fittings and safety briefings without rush.
Wear Appropriate Swimwear
Bring swimwear and quick-dry clothing; neoprene gear is provided if needed, but dry clothes post-ride are essential.
Fitness Level Matters
A reasonable level of fitness is important to paddle through Grade 5 rapids and handle the physical demands of the trip safely.
Leave Valuables Behind
Waterproof storage isn’t provided; avoid bringing phones or wallets unless secured with waterproof cases or rentals like GoPro harnesses.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Native New Zealand Fantail birds flitting through the canyon trees.
- Occasional sightings of eels and trout in the river’s calmer pools.
History
The Kaituna River has been historically significant to local Maori iwi as a source of food, water, and spiritual connection.
Conservation
Kaituna Cascades Rafting supports river conservation efforts that protect native vegetation and water quality, ensuring minimal environmental impact from commercial rafting.
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Adventure Hotspots in Rotorua
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Swimwear
Lightweight swimwear is needed for comfort on water and fits beneath provided wetsuits.
summer specific
Quick-Dry Shorts or Pants
Wear quick-dry clothing as you’ll get wet and need to stay comfortable before and after rafting.
spring|summer|fall specific
Wetsuit (Provided)
For cooler months, the supplied wetsuit keeps you warm and protected against cold water temperatures.
fall|winter|spring specific
Waterproof Camera or GoPro
Capture the ride safely with waterproof gear; rentals and chest harnesses are available on site.