White Water Sledging with Serious Fun Riverboarding
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4–4.5 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good health with basic swimming ability and enough stamina for up to 1.5 hours in the river.
Overview
Conquer grade 2-3 rapids on the Kawarau River with Serious Fun Riverboarding’s thrilling sledging adventure—perfect for water lovers seeking an action-packed yet approachable white water experience.
Sledging
4.5 Hours • Ages 12+ • Ride fast flowing rapids and blast through waves
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience the thrill of white water sledging on the stunning Kawarau River! Navigate grade 2-3 rapids on a buoyant, easy-to-manoeuvre sledge, combining adrenaline-pumping action with serene floats. Perfect for water lovers, this adventure offers breathtaking scenery and the excitement of mastering the river like never before.
Get up close and personal with white water and mighty rapids on our custom made sledges. Master the River, be in control.
Duration
Allow 3 hours, about 1-1.5 hours will be spent in the river
Available September to May
About
Available September to May
Sledging is ideal for those who want the Riverboarding experience but with more help from a bigger more buoyant board.
Get up close and personal with white water and mighty rapids on our custom made sledges. Master the River be in control.
Sledge 7 km of grade 2 to 3 white water on special river purpose boards. Sturdy easy to hold on to very buoyant and highly manoeuvrable the sledge keeps you slightly more above the water than bodyboards.
This is an action packed adventure for true water lovers. We start our trip in a secret calm eddy after an introduction on the basic sledging techniques.
Here you must perform the minimum skills required to experience this trip.
As we head to the main flow hold on tight and feel the power of the river as adrenaline kicks in. Ride fast flowing rapids blast through waves spin on giant whirlpools and try wicked rock jumps.
There is a calm final section that allows you to relax and take in the scenery. Basic Swimming skills are required by all participants. Skills needed are moving forward with a freestyle kick, turning and balancing.
Please let us know if you have any special requirements or medical conditions that may affect your participation
Sledging is ideal for those who want the Riverboarding experience but with more help from a bigger more buoyant board.
What to Bring
- Swimwear and towel
- Sense of adventure
What's provided
- Full steam 5mm wetsuit
- Booties
- Fins
- Life Jacket
- Helmet
- Bodyboard
Adventure Tips
Basic Swimming Required
Ensure you can perform freestyle kicking, turning, and balancing before booking this white water sledging trip.
Wear Appropriate Swimwear
Bring your swimwear and towel for comfort under the supplied wetsuit and gear.
Hold On Tight
Rapids include waves, whirlpools, and rock jumps—stay alert and keep a firm grip on your sledge at all times.
Listen to Your Guide
Follow the pre-trip briefing carefully for safe navigation and to fully enjoy the river’s challenges.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Kea parrots native to the Otago region
- Waterfowl such as black swans on riverbanks
History
The Kawarau River is historically vital for gold mining during New Zealand’s 19th-century gold rush, shaping the region's settlement.
Conservation
Serious Fun Riverboarding actively promotes river conservation by educating guests on minimizing environmental impact and respecting local wildlife habitats.
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Adventure Hotspots in Queenstown
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Swimwear
Essential for comfort under the wetsuit and quick drying after the ride.
summer specific
5mm Wetsuit
Keeps you warm in the Kawarau’s cold water, provided by the company.
spring|fall|winter specific
Waterproof Sunscreen
Protects exposed skin from harmful UV rays during sunny river sessions.
summer specific
Towel
For drying off after your sledging adventure.