Experience the thrill of canyoning and kayaking in Little Akatarawa Canyon with Wellington WhiteWater Adventures. This full-day trip combines adrenaline-pumping zip lines and waterfall descents with peaceful river paddling amid stunning scenery.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Average fitness required; participants should be comfortable with light to moderate physical activity.
Wildlife
History
The Little Akatarawa Canyon has been a favorite local recreation spot for decades, with early explorers discovering its unique geological formations in the mid-20th century.
Conservation
The tour supports local conservation efforts by promoting eco-friendly practices and minimizing environmental impact during activities.
Wellington WhiteWater Adventures
Experience the thrill of canyoning and kayaking in Little Akatarawa Canyon with Wellington WhiteWater Adventures. This full-day trip combines adrenaline-pumping zip lines and waterfall descents with peaceful river paddling amid stunning scenery.
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.
Wear moisture-wicking gear
Bring quick-drying clothing and sturdy footwear suitable for water activities.
Start early in the day
Arriving early ensures optimal light for photography and avoids crowds.
Stay hydrated and energized
Pack snacks and water to keep your energy levels high throughout the adventure.
Follow safety instructions carefully
Listen to guides and adhere to safety protocols for a secure experience.
Wetsuit
Keeps you warm and protected during water activities.
winter|summer
Waterproof camera or phone case
Allows capturing photos without damaging your device.
Quick-drying towel
Comfortable for post-activity refreshment and changing.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Secure footwear (water shoes or sandals)
Provides grip and protection on wet rocks and surfaces.