White Water Rafting in Rotorua with River Rats

Looking for things to do in Rotorua beyond the hot pools, smelly geysers and sky-high gondola? Jump on a River Rats white water rafting trip for an epic adrenaline rush! These guys are total experts in white water rafting in Rotorua, taking tourists and locals alike on enjoyable journeys down rivers, across lakes and even over waterfalls, if you dare… Do something a bit different with your Rotorua holiday and lock in a thrilling white water rafting adventure.

As one of the top Rotorua attractions, River Rats offer a number of river options for different levels of confidence. From relaxing scenic trips down grade two rivers to the extreme excitement of white water rafting Rotorua’s best waterfalls, simply choose your thrill factor and get ready to get wet. Come alone and you’ll join a group of other travellers, or book a raft for the whole family for a bit of team building.

rafting Rangitaiki River

 Rafting on Rotorua’s scenic Rangitaiki River (Photo credit River Rats) 

Families with children, or those who just want a taste of Rotorua white water rafting, will love the Rangitaiki Grade 2 Scenic Trip. You’ll see the incredible natural scenery that New Zealand is famous for, with foaming waterfalls dropping into the river and stunning local flora and fauna all around you. River Rats will pick you up from your hotel and you’ll be rafting for about an hour and a half, although allow five to six hours all up including lunch and travel time.

If you’re up for a challenge with a side of striking views, grade three and four rapids are perfect for you! There are two options to choose from – Rangitaiki Grade 3 and 4 or Tongariro Grade 3. From rushing rapids to floating past native bush you’ll enjoy every minute of these exciting Rotorua rafting routes – keep an eye out for rainbow trout down the Tongariro River! The Rangitaiki route offers pick up from Rotorua, and the Tongariro trip begins at the River Rats Turangi base, about an hour and 45 minutes from Rotorua.

Still not impressed? If you’re an adrenaline-junkie, a thrill-seeker and just LOVE getting wet, the Kaituna River is calling your name. This bad boy is known all around the world, and is the highest commercially rafted waterfall worldwide… We’ll just let that sink in. This one’s not for the faint-hearted, and you’ll have to be over 16 (or over 13 and accompanied by an adult) and physically fit to sign up. Don’t be put off if you’re a beginner – every crazy rapid is followed by calm waters for you to regain your energy so as long as you’re confident you’ll be totally fine. 

 rafting Kaituna River

The white waters of the spectacular Kaituna River (Photo credit River Rats)

If you’re keen for a bit of a paddle without your heart going crazy, sign up for a kayak instead of a raft. Choose from a day time or evening trip, guided or freedom or get the whole family in one big canoe! You’ll get the chance to explore either Ohau Channel or Manupirua Springs, with the option of soaking in the hot pools too.

Never rafted before? Don’t stress, River Rats’ qualified guides will teach you how to paddle, give you all the safety information and make sure you’re comfortable. You’ll get a wetsuit, booties and a high-float lifejacket too, just bring something to wear under the wetsuit and a warm, fluffy towel for once the adrenaline wears off!

River Rats Rafting offer exhilarating and electrifying Rotorua white water rafting trips, as well as relaxing tours and activity packages. Visitors looking to get to Rotorua from Auckland can hire a rental car from Auckland Airport and enjoy a drive through the stunning Waikato region.