Paddle across Lake Rotoiti to soak in Manupirua Springs Hot Pools and visit glow worm caves on this guided evening kayak tour with River Rats Raft & Kayak. Perfect for families seeking a unique blend of adventure and relaxation.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
6–7 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; moderate endurance needed for two one-hour paddling legs with breaks
Wildlife
History
Manupirua Springs Hot Pools sit on land historically valued by Māori for its therapeutic geothermal waters and have been a cultural gathering place for centuries.
Conservation
River Rats promotes low-impact tourism by limiting group sizes and educating paddlers about preserving the delicate lake ecosystem and surrounding bush.
River Rats Raft & Kayak
Paddle across Lake Rotoiti to soak in Manupirua Springs Hot Pools and visit glow worm caves on this guided evening kayak tour with River Rats Raft & Kayak. Perfect for families seeking a unique blend of adventure and relaxation.
River Rats Raft & Kayak is a Rotorua-based operator offering guided rafting and kayaking trips across the Bay of Plenty region. With a focus on supervised river and lake adventures, River Rats Raft & Kayak runs a range of experiences including white-water rafting on the Rangitaiki River (Grade 3–4 and a Grade 2 scenic option), high-grade rafting on the Kaituna River (Grade 5), guided Tongariro rafting (Grade 3), and multiple kayaking experiences such as the Ohau Channel Freedom Trip and guided hot pools paddles.
All trips depart from Rotorua and explore nearby waterways in the Bay of Plenty. Evening departures include a guided kayak trip to Manupirua Springs Hot Pools on Lake Rotoiti with a sunset paddle, a Kiwi BBQ dinner, a soak in natural hot springs, and a visit to glow worm caves. River Rats Raft & Kayak provides guided experiences suitable for families and adventure-focused guests depending on trip grade and route.
River Rats Raft & Kayak is featured on The Adventure Collective and is listed among local operators providing rafting and kayaking in the Rotorua area. Trip grades (Grade 2 to Grade 5) indicate the relative difficulty of river sections; guests can select trips that match their comfort level and experience. Safety equipment and professional guides are part of the guided offerings. For specific departure times, age limits, fitness requirements, and booking details, visitors should consult River Rats Raft & Kayak directly or the booking information on third-party listings. Public safety applies on all trips and inspections.
Tours Offered
7 Tours
Range from Grade 2 to Grade 5
Activities
Rafting · Kayaking
Guided river and lake trips
Featured On
The Adventure Collective
Editorial listing and feature
Evening Trips
Hot pools & glow worms
Sunset paddles and natural springs
Choose the right grade and route, then reserve a guided rafting or kayaking adventure from Rotorua today.
Bring swimwear and towel
You’ll be soaking in natural hot pools, so pack swimwear and a towel for comfort and convenience.
Dress in layers
Evening temperatures can drop after sunset, so wear layers to stay warm during the paddle back.
Paddle patience for kids
Children as young as 5 can join if accompanied by a strong paddling adult with patience for tandem kayak dynamics.
Reserve ahead for sunset timing
Trips vary with seasonal sunset times; book early to secure an optimal time for the glow worm cave visit.
Swimsuit
Needed for enjoying the natural hot pools comfortably.
Quick-dry towel
For drying off after the hot springs soak and before the return paddle.
Layered clothing
To adjust to falling temperatures during evening paddling.
fall
Waterproof jacket
Helpful for staying dry and warm if weather is cool or rainy.
winter