Discover the thrill of Grade 3 rapids amidst New Zealand’s stunning landscapes with Wellington WhiteWater Adventures. An adrenaline-pumping river experience awaits!
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Difficulty
challenging
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in moderate physical condition with good upper body strength.
Wildlife
History
The Hutt River has been a vital waterway for local Māori for centuries, with early European explorers charting its course in the 19th century.
Conservation
The company actively participates in river clean-up efforts, ensuring preservation of its pristine waters for future generations.
Wellington WhiteWater Adventures
Discover the thrill of Grade 3 rapids amidst New Zealand’s stunning landscapes with Wellington WhiteWater Adventures. An adrenaline-pumping river experience awaits!
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 Quick-Drying Clothing
Ensure your clothing dries quickly to stay comfortable during and after the trip.
Listen to Your Guide
Follow safety instructions carefully to maximize fun and stay safe on the river.
Keep Your Camera Secure
Use waterproof gear or cases to capture moments without risking damage.
Stay Hydrated
Bring water and sip regularly to maintain energy during the trip.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
A well-fitting PFD is crucial for safety during whitewater rafting.
Quick-Drying Clothes
Wear clothing that dries fast and allows for movement.
Waterproof Hat
Protect your head from sun and splashes.
Sunblock
Apply sunscreen to prevent sunburn during outdoor activity.