Rotorua: Kaituna River White Water Rafting & Free Sauna

Summary

Rafting wild Kaituna waters, waterfalls, laughter and a hot sauna

You’ll jump straight into action rafting down Rotorua’s Kaituna River with local guides—tackling rapids, plunging over Tutea Falls, and catching glimpses of lush New Zealand bush between adrenaline bursts. Afterward, warm up in a free sauna and relive your best (and funniest) moments together. It’s messy fun you’ll remember every time you hear rushing water.

What’s the experience like?

By the time we were squeezing into wetsuits at the edge of the Kaituna River, I could already smell that sharp green scent from the bush—like wet ferns and earth after a summer rain. Our guide, Tama, grinned and asked if anyone had ever flipped a raft before. I laughed (nervously) and shook my head. The river looked harmless at first—just a bit noisy, nothing wild yet—but I could feel my heart thumping anyway. There was this weird mix of nerves and excitement buzzing around our group as we paddled out, water splashing up cold against my knuckles.

I didn’t expect how loud it would get when we reached the first rapid—like someone cranked up the volume on nature itself. Tama shouted something about leaning in and suddenly we were dropping down through frothy water, everyone yelling over each other. And then came Tutea Falls. Seven meters doesn’t sound like much until you’re staring over the edge in a rubber boat with your stomach somewhere near your shoes. We went over fast; for half a second there was just white noise and spray—and then we popped out underneath, everyone soaked and laughing like idiots. My cheeks hurt from grinning.

The rest of the hour on the Kaituna River felt like it went by in five minutes. There were quieter stretches where Tama pointed out native plants along the canyon walls (I still can’t pronounce “ponga” right), but mostly it was all about clinging to your paddle and not swallowing too much river water. By the end, my arms were jelly but I couldn’t stop talking about that waterfall drop. Back at base, peeling off wetsuits felt weirdly satisfying—like proof we’d actually done it—and sitting in the free sauna with steam curling around us was honestly perfect after all that cold water shock. Watching our photos flash up on a big screen while everyone teased each other about their faces… yeah, that part sticks with me.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kaituna River white water rafting

• Receive full safety briefing
• Hop on raft for rafting
• Float down Kaituna River canyon
• Admire subtropical scenery
• Raft through easy white water
• Raft under waterfalls
• Raft over Tutea Falls
• Continue action-packed rafting
• Enjoy hot shower after tour
• View professional photos on screen

Top questions

How long does the Rotorua white water rafting tour last?

The rafting portion is about 1 hour on the river; allow 2 hours total for the full trip including prep and finishing up.

Is hotel pickup included for this Kaituna River rafting tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are available on request if prebooked 24 hours prior.

What is the age limit for rafting on Kaituna River?

The minimum age is 10 years old; children aged 10-12 join below Tutea Falls for half-river experience.

Are beginners welcome or do I need rafting experience?

No experience is required—this tour is suitable for both novice and experienced rafters.

What should I bring or wear for Rotorua Rafting?

All equipment including wetsuit, helmet, booties, buoyancy aid, and paddle are provided; just bring swimwear to wear under your wetsuit.

Is there a weight limit for participants?

Yes, there is a weight limit of 130kg per person.

Does this tour include any extra perks?

A free sauna session is included after rafting to help you warm up and relax.

Can people with disabilities join this white water rafting tour?

The tour is wheelchair accessible; transportation options are also wheelchair accessible.

What’s included

Your day includes optional hotel pickup from Rotorua if you book ahead, all necessary safety gear like wetsuits and helmets (so you don’t have to worry about bringing anything special), guidance from professional local raft guides who know every twist of the river by heart—and at the end, you’ll get to unwind in a free sauna before heading back into town.