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Paddle through the tranquil Ohau Channel from Lake Rotorua to Lake Rotoiti with River Rats Raft & Kayak. This 2.5-hour self-guided trip offers shifting currents, native wildlife, and scenic lake vistas just minutes from Rotorua.
Paddle through the tranquil Ohau Channel from Lake Rotorua to Lake Rotoiti with River Rats Raft & Kayak. This 2.5-hour self-guided trip offers shifting currents, native wildlife, and scenic lake vistas just minutes from Rotorua.
Book with River Rats Raft & Kayak
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by River Rats Raft & Kayak · Rotorua, Bay of Plenty
Set in New Zealand’s Bay of Plenty region, the Ohau Channel carves a vivid route through the lakes of Rotorua and Rotoiti, offering paddlers a distinct blend of calm and current. River Rats Raft & Kayak, based just off Rotorua Airport, delivers a signature 2.5-hour kayak journey designed for self-guided adventure. This trip invites you to glide from the sheltered waters of Lake Rotorua, through the narrow Ohau Channel, and out onto the expansive Okere Arm of Lake Rotoiti. Here, paddlers navigate a changing waterway—from slow-moving stretches lined with native trees and occasional overhanging limbs to wider lake sections where steady paddling keeps you moving forward.
The region’s lakes are part of a unique volcanic landscape, dotted with geothermal activity and fringed by lush indigenous flora that reward observers with a quiet wilderness feel close to town. Kayaking through the channel can reveal shy waterfowl and the occasional native fish, connecting visitors to this largely untouched ecosystem. The transition from channel to open lake is a highlight, as the surrounding views open up to rolling bush-covered hills and clear waters.
River Rats Raft & Kayak stand out in Rotorua’s outdoor scene by offering flexible freedom trips with all equipment, transfers, and local knowledge included. This self-driven model suits experienced kayakers comfortable with variable currents and natural obstacles, emphasizing safety and respect for the environment. For newcomers or those seeking guided experiences, River Rats offers alternative tours like evening glow worm spotting and hot pools excursions.
With its blend of dynamic paddling routes, geological interest, and reliable local support, River Rats provides an accessible gateway to one of New Zealand’s authentic freshwater adventures. Perfect for intermediate paddlers looking to balance serene lake moments and moving water challenges, the Ohau Channel trip is both an invitation to challenge and unwind in Rotorua’s captivating lake district.
moderate.
2–3 hours.
Participants should have moderate fitness and be comfortable with steady paddling for a couple of hours.
This trip is best suited for kayakers with some paddling experience comfortable on moving water.
Yes, you can finish just after exiting the Ohau Channel for a shorter paddle.
All kayak gear, safety equipment, maps, and transport to and from the start/end points are included.
Guided kayak tours and other local experiences like hot pools and glow worm trips are available on request.
Trips begin at River Rats’ base at 837 Te Ngae Rd, Rotorua, with pick-up at the end of the paddle.
Bring a swimsuit, towel, and shorts; other gear will be provided.
The Ohau Channel forms part of a traditional Māori waterway connecting lakes important to local iwi for centuries.
River Rats promotes catch-and-release principles and responsible paddling to protect lake ecology and native species.
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.
Book with River Rats Raft & Kayak