Take on New Zealand’s highest commercially rafted waterfall on the Kaituna River, then unwind in the geothermal mud baths and sulphur pools at Hell’s Gate. Kaituna Cascades Rafting blends adrenaline-pumping rapids with centuries-old Māori healing traditions in the Bay of Plenty.
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Difficulty
challenging
Duration
2–4 hours total
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical shape, comfortable in grade 5 white-water conditions, and able to handle moderate exertion.
Wildlife
History
The Kaituna River area holds cultural importance for local Māori, with Hell’s Gate Spa serving as a healing site for more than 800 years.
Conservation
The operator supports sustainable tourism by limiting group sizes and promoting Leave No Trace principles to protect the fragile river ecosystem.
Kaituna Cascades Rafting
Take on New Zealand’s highest commercially rafted waterfall on the Kaituna River, then unwind in the geothermal mud baths and sulphur pools at Hell’s Gate. Kaituna Cascades Rafting blends adrenaline-pumping rapids with centuries-old Māori healing traditions in the Bay of Plenty.
Kaituna Cascades Rafting operates in Okere Falls in New Zealand’s Bay of Plenty, offering guided white water rafting and multi-activity trips on the region’s iconic rivers.
The company runs multiple experiences: Kaituna River Rafting, Wairoa River Rafting, a Kaituna & Wairoa Combo, and a Mud Baths & Rafting Combo. The Kaituna River Rafting trip features 14 exhilarating drops, including the spectacular 7‑metre Tutea Falls, the highest commercially rafted waterfall, with expert guides leading a 50‑minute descent through a jungle canyon suitable for adrenaline seekers and first‑time rafters. The Wairoa River Rafting experience tackles Grade 5 white water, challenging rafters with intense rapids and named features such as 'Mothers Nightmare' and the dramatic 'Waterfall' drop through narrow rock canyons. The Kaituna & Wairoa Combo pairs a morning on the Wairoa with a relaxing lunch and a descent of the Kaituna, combining high‑adrenaline rapids with the iconic waterfall run. The Mud Baths & Rafting Combo adds a local hot spring element to a rafting day. Guides on each trip provide safety briefings, steer rafts, and manage equipment to industry standards. Operations are centered at Okere Falls, giving direct river access in the Bay of Plenty. Trip durations, difficulty levels, and route highlights are clearly described for each offering to help guests choose the right experience. Kaituna Cascades Rafting emphasizes experienced guide support, proven river routes, and distinctive local attractions to deliver memorable and well-managed rafting adventures. Booking information, safety gear details, and meeting points are provided at time of reservation. online support
Location
Okere Falls
Base in Bay of Plenty
Highest Drop
7 m Tutea Falls
Highest commercially rafted waterfall
Wairoa Grade
Grade 5
Intense white water rapids
Tours Offered
4 trip options
Rafting and combo experiences
Secure a spot on Kaituna River, Wairoa River, or a full-day combo — guided trips with clear safety briefings and local expertise.
Book Your Hot Pool Access Early
Bookings for Hell’s Gate Spa mud baths are essential—reserve in advance to secure your spot after rafting.
Prepare for Grade 5 Rapids
This trip includes challenging white-water with intense drops; participants should be fit and comfortable in fast-moving water.
Bring Swimwear & a Towel
You’ll need swimwear for rafting and the hot pools. Consider an old suit for the pools due to sulphur smell retention.
Arrive on Time for Check-in
Rafting check-ins are at fixed times (9 am, 11:45 am, 2:30 pm). Arriving promptly helps you make the most of both activities.
Swimwear
Needed for rafting and the hot pools, ideally separate sets for water and mud baths.
Towel
Useful to dry off comfortably after both rafting and mud bath sessions.
Sun Protection
Sunscreen and a hat protect from harsh sun during exposed river sections.
summer
Old Swimwear
Recommended for the mud baths to avoid lasting sulphur odor on newer swimwear.