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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.
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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Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Kaituna Cascades Rafting · Okere Falls, Bay of Plenty
Located at 18 Okere Falls Road in New Zealand’s Bay of Plenty, Kaituna Cascades Rafting offers a pulse-pounding journey down the Kaituna River, crowned by the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall—the 7-meter Tutea Falls. This isn’t just another rafting trip; it’s a grade 5 white-water challenge that threads through a twisting warm-water jungle canyon, carving its way through ancient volcanic rock and lush native flora. For roughly 50 minutes, guided teams maneuver over 14 thrilling rapids, combining adrenaline with the spectacular natural beauty of Okere Falls.
But the adventure doesn’t end in the river. After conquering the rapids, guests travel a short distance to Hell’s Gate, a geothermal spa famed for its unique mud baths and sulphur pools. This site has served as a place of healing and renewal for Māori people for over 800 years. The mineral-rich mud softens skin while natural sulphur pools offer a soothing soak, providing a perfect recovery after the morning’s exertion. Visitors receive a hot pool pass upon rafting check-in, allowing seamless transition from river to relaxation.
Kaituna Cascades Rafting stands out in the Rotorua area for blending intense white-water thrills with cultural and natural wellness. Its location minimizes transit hassle—no long bus rides spoil timing. The combination of fast water, dramatic drops, and geothermal luxury speaks to adventurous travelers seeking both excitement and a unique connection to New Zealand’s landscape and heritage.
This trip suits those aged 13 and up who can handle rigorous physical activity and seek a distinctive outdoor experience beyond typical rafting or spa visits. With expert guides, custom rafts, and comprehensive gear included, this package delivers a tightly woven adventure from first splash to last soak in the Bay of Plenty’s rugged heartland.
challenging.
2–4 hours total.
Participants should be in good physical shape, comfortable in grade 5 white-water conditions, and able to handle moderate exertion.
No previous experience is needed, but participants must be comfortable in fast water and able to swim.
The combo trip is suitable for ages 13 and up, with health and weight restrictions applying.
The rafting portion lasts around 50 minutes, including navigating 14 rapids and the Tutea Falls drop.
No, all rafting gear including wetsuits, helmets, and life jackets are provided.
Bookings are essential for Hell’s Gate and should be made ahead by calling +64 07 345 3151.
Bring swimwear and a towel; older swimwear is recommended because the sulphur smell can linger on fabric.
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.
The operator supports sustainable tourism by limiting group sizes and promoting Leave No Trace principles to protect the fragile river ecosystem.
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
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