Grade 5 Rafting & Mud Baths at Kaituna Cascades
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.
Overview
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.
Mud Baths & Rafting Combo
Ages 13+ • 2 hrs + Hells Gate Spa • Rotorua
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About This Adventure
Raft down the world's highest rafted waterfall before lathering up in the MUD BATHS. Then relaxing into the naturally heated geothermal waters of the amazing Hell's Gate hot pools !
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.
Hell’s Gate offers the only geothermal mud bath experience in New Zealand and has been a treasured place of healing and revitalising for Māori for more than 800 years. Soothe and clean your skin by lathering it in our unique mud, before exfoliating and cleansing with a soak in the sulphur spa.
BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL FOR HELLS GATE - please call +64 07 345 3151
Rafting Check-in Time Daily at 9 am, 11:45 am and 2.30 pm.
You will receive your hot pool pass at our base after the rafting tour.
Duration Allow 2 hours for the rafting (50 mins on water) & 2 hours for the hot pool & MUD BATH.
Hells Gate Spa Opening times
- Everyday: 10am–6pm (Last entry 4.30pm)
Conditions Grade 5 rafting trip 13+ years -
NOT SUITABLE FOR PREGNANT WOMEN. Maximum weight is 120kgs - must be fit and healthy.
Location 18 Okere Falls Road - Our base is located on the banks of the Kaituna River and there are no long bus rides or waiting around in wet suits! Then head to the Hells Gate only 10 minutes away @ 351 State Highway 30 Tikitere, Rotorua New Zealand .
What to bring Swimwear, Shorts, Towel & a sense of adventure for the rafting. At Hells Gate, you will need your swimwear and a towel. We recommend bringing an old pair of swimwear for the hot pool as the Sulphur smell can be difficult to rinse out. Alternatively, you can hire them at Hells Gate.
We provide The best guides on the river, custom built rafts, wet suits, helmets, life jackets, paddles, warm fleece tops, wet suit booties and splash jackets.
Adventure Tips
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.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Tui birds flitting through native trees
- Freshwater eels in the Kaituna River
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.
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Adventure Hotspots in Rotorua
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
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 specific
Old Swimwear
Recommended for the mud baths to avoid lasting sulphur odor on newer swimwear.