Float down the stunning Waiohine Gorge on a gentle, scenic tour perfect for families and nature lovers. Experience native bush, waterfalls, and tranquil waters in Wairarapa’s hidden gem.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; no prior experience needed.
Wildlife
History
The Waiohine River has shaped the landscape for thousands of years, forming the picturesque gorge admired today.
Conservation
Wellington WhiteWater Adventures promotes responsible tourism by respecting the environment and minimizing impact.
Wellington WhiteWater Adventures
Float down the stunning Waiohine Gorge on a gentle, scenic tour perfect for families and nature lovers. Experience native bush, waterfalls, and tranquil waters in Wairarapa’s hidden gem.
Wellington WhiteWater Adventures is an Upper Hutt–based adventure operator offering guided river and canyon experiences close to Wellington city. The company runs a range of activities including whitewater rafting on Te Awa Kairangi/Hutt River and Waiohine Gorge, duckie tours, canyoning in the Little Akatarawa, electric mountain biking combined with river trips, and helicopter-access wilderness rafting.
Tours include entry-level canyoning trips with waterfall abseils and zip lines, family-friendly scenic floats and grade 2 rafting, plus longer wilderness-grade duckie and grade 3 rafting options. Several full-day packages combine activities—examples include the Ropes and Rivers Tour (canyoning and kayaking with a catered lunch) and Bikes, Boats and Brews (e-bike riding, rafting and a riverside meal). A helicopter-access option provides remote entry to Waiohine Gorge for an extended day on the river.
Guides are positioned as experienced river and canyon professionals who lead trips across a range of difficulty levels and terrain. Trips explicitly offer catered lunches on multiple tours and high-quality photos on select full-day adventures. Wellington WhiteWater Adventures operates from Upper Hutt, Wellington, and runs activities in nearby locations such as the Little Akatarawa Canyon, Te Awa Kairangi/Hutt River and Waiohine Gorge. The operator provides options suited to families, groups, team-building and adrenaline-seeking visitors, with trip lengths that range from two-hour scenic floats to multi-hour wilderness outings.
Location
Upper Hutt, Wellington
Base close to Wellington city
Tours Offered
13 tours
Rafting, canyoning, bike and helicopter trips
Durations
2–5 hours & full-day
Half-day and full-day options available
Family Options
Family-friendly tours
Gentle rapids and scenic floats available
Secure a spot on rafting, canyoning, duckie or e-bike tours — limited availability for helicopter-access and wilderness trips.
Bring your camera
Capture the stunning scenery and native wildlife along the float.
Dress for the weather
Wear quick-drying clothing and layers appropriate for the day’s conditions.
Arrive early
Prepare to meet your guide and get suited up before the tour begins.
Safety first
Listen carefully to guides’ instructions for a safe experience on the water.
Waterproof camera
Capture the scenic beauty and wildlife during your float.
Quick-dry clothing
Stay comfortable and dry in case of splashes or weather changes.
Sun protection
Protect yourself from sun exposure during the tour.
summer
Hat and sunglasses
Shield eyes from the sun while enjoying the scenery.
summer