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Rotorua Rafting Blog

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All the latest from Rotorua Rafting - Updates, Locals Tips + Tricks and more...

view from above of three yellow rafts below a rapid on the kaituna river in rotorua - travellers choice 2025 #4 experience in NZ winnter badge is overlayed.

August 5, 2025

4min

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Since 2019 – A Traveller’s Choice Winner (And Still Going Strong)

Since 2019, we’ve been humbled, stoked, and fired up to be recognised year after year as a Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice winner.

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three rafters celebrate their success at the bottom of tutea fall on the kaiutna river

June 15, 2025

3min

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Embrace the Chill: Winter White Water Rafting Adventures in New Zealand

When most envision white water rafting in New Zealand, they picture sun-soaked days and warm waters. However, winter unveils a different kind of adventure—equally exhilarating and uniquely enchanting.

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Mount Maunganui view front the top at sunrise

May 20, 2025

3min

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The Ultimate 3-Day Bay of Plenty Adventure Itinerary

Planning a getaway packed with adventure, natural beauty, and unforgettable experiences? The Bay of Plenty region is a must-visit – and we’ve crafted the perfect 3-day itinerary to help you make the most of your trip. From coastal vibes to geothermal wonders and the adrenaline rush of whitewater rafting, here’s how to do it all.

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raft full of people paddle back into rapid on the kaituna river in rotorua

April 15, 2025

3min

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Why Choose Rotorua Rafting for Your Kaituna River Adventure

If you're considering whitewater rafting in New Zealand, the Kaituna River in Rotorua should be at the top of your list. But with several options available, why should you choose Rotorua Rafting? Here’s why Rotorua Rafting stands out as the ultimate choice for an unforgettable experience.

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raft sideways in a rapid on the kaituna River in Rotorua

December 6, 2025

4mins

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Why Rafting on the Kaituna River is the Best Experience in New Zealand

When it comes to adventure tourism, New Zealand sets the global standard. Among its many adrenaline-filled activities, rafting on the Kaituna River stands out as an iconic experience that combines thrills, natural beauty, and cultural significance. Here’s why the Kaituna should be at the top of your must-do list.

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wide shot of raft dropping over 7meter tutea falls on the kaituna river

June 16, 2025

5min

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Exploring the Māori History of the Kaituna River: A Sacred Waterway

When most people think of the Kaituna River, they picture adrenaline-pumping whitewater rafting and stunning natural beauty – and they’re not wrong. But beneath the surface of those rapids lies a deep cultural heritage that connects the river to the tangata whenua (people of the land). For the local iwi (tribes) of Te Arawa, the Kaituna isn’t just a playground – it’s a sacred, living taonga (treasure) that has sustained their people for generations.‍

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birds eye view of raft on the kaituna river

July 21, 2024

3mins

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Discover the Epic Adventures Awaiting You in Okere Falls!

Are you ready for an unforgettable journey packed with excitement, natural beauty, and serene retreats? Look no further than Okere Falls, just a short 20-minute drive from Rotorua CBD. This hidden gem is a treasure trove of exhilarating activities and tranquil escapes, making it the perfect getaway from city life. Here's a detailed guide to the best experiences Okere Falls has to offer:

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a raft going over okere falls in rotorua and two people sitting in a hotpool overlooking lake rotoiti

May 20, 2024

3min

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A Winter Weekend Guide to Rotorua: Adventure, Relaxation, and Culture

Whether you're a local or a visitor, a winter weekend in Rotorua offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. This guide will help you make the most of your short stay, ensuring an unforgettable experience in this stunning part of New Zealand.

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March 20, 2024

5 min

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Navigating New Zealand's Whitewater Wonderland: A Guide to River Classifications

New Zealand's rugged landscapes and abundant waterways make it a haven for whitewater enthusiasts. From thrilling rapids to serene stretches, the country offers a diverse range of experiences for paddlers of all levels. Whether you're a seasoned kayaker seeking adrenaline-pumping rapids or a novice looking for a leisurely float, understanding the whitewater classifications is crucial for a safe and enjoyable adventure.

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a raft about to flip over after going down tutea falls on the kaituna river

January 18, 2024

5min

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How Dangerous is White Water Rafting? Exploring the Facts and Statistics

Welcome to Rotorua Rafting, where adventure meets safety! We understand that your safety is a top concern when it comes to white water rafting, and we want to provide you with transparent information about the risks associated with our adventure so you can make informed decisions.

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a yellow raft going down a rapid on the kaituna river in rotorua

December 30, 2023

2min

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2-Day Itinerary | Thrilling Weekend Adventure in Rotorua: Explore, Experience, and Enjoy

Welcome to Rotorua, New Zealand's adventure capital nestled in the heart of the Bay of Plenty. Get ready for an action-packed weekend filled with geothermal wonders, adrenaline-pumping activities, and immersive cultural experiences.

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November 20, 2023

5min

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Family-Friendly Fun: Things to Do with Kids in Rotorua

From its unique geothermal attractions to lush parks and kid-friendly dining options, Rotorua offers a plethora of family-friendly activities. In this blog, we'll explore 15 exciting things to do with kids in this captivating city.

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rafters on the kaituna river new zealand through native bush

August 18, 2023

4 min

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Paddling Through Time: A Journey into the History of Whitewater Rafting

Whitewater rafting, often dubbed as the ultimate adrenaline rush on water, has captivated adventurous souls for centuries. This exhilarating sport takes you on a wild and unpredictable ride down rushing rivers, offering an unmatched blend of excitement, nature, and teamwork. To truly appreciate the thrill of modern whitewater rafting, we must embark on a historical voyage to explore its fascinating origins and evolution.

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March 20, 2023

2min

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Rotoruas Best Nightime Activities

Famous for its adrenaline-pumping activities and rejuvenating geothermal spas, we all know that there’s plenty to do in Rotorua during the day. But did you know the city is also buzzing with activity at night? To make sure that you’re just as entertained when the sun goes down, here is the Rotorua Rafting team’s top picks for things to do at night.

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Kaituna River Forecast and Update from Flow Rate NZ

January 30, 2023

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Rain, Rain, Go Away!

We’re looking forward to getting back on the Kaituna as soon as possible, but for now, we’ll keep our spirits up and enjoy what the Rangitaiki has to offer!

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December 12, 2022

3min

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Gift Vouchers make the Best Presents! Here’s Why…

Looking for EPIC Christmas Presents, Stocking Stuffers or Secret Santa Gifts? Give the Gift of an epic experience and it will not only save you money, energy & embarrassment, you will also be doing your part in helping to save the planet!

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Rotorua Rafting Winners at the 2022 Rotorua Business Awards

November 15, 2022

3min

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We WON at the 2022 Rotorua Business Awards!!

It’s not often that the Rotorua Rafting Team scrub up & put on their Sunday best, but with an evening at the Rotorua Business Awards last weekend, that’s exactly what we did!

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October 20, 2022

3min

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Instaworthy spots in the Bay of Plenty

There’s no denying that the Bay of Plenty has some pretty epic “instaworthy” spots, so you can feel/look like an influencer in the wild… here's Rotorua Raftings Top Picks!

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October 14, 2022

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Rangitaiki River Rafting

White water rafting on the Rangitaiki River is not to be underestimated.Set in a beautifully remote canyon, the Rangitaiki provides 14km’s of amazing white water.

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team work hands together rotorua rafting

September 25, 2022

3min

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The Ultimate Okere Falls Work Do

Let Rotorua Rafting take the hard mahi out of this years Staff Party, Christmas Function or Work Do. Together with Rotorua Ziplines, Okere Falls Store & Lake Rotoiti Hot Pools, we’ve created the ultimate full-day, tailored experience for your crew.

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August 20, 2022

4min

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Rafters Guide: Where To Stay in Rotorua

If you’re visiting Rotorua, you need a stellar place to stay. Our city is filled with excellent accommodation options, so much so that choosing just one can be a tough call. Luckily, the team at Rotorua Rafting is here to help – just follow our handy guide on where to lay your head!

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June 10, 2022

3 min

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Why is Rafting the Kaituna in Winter AWESOME?!?

If the thought of rafting in the winter is keeping you up at night, our theory is simple; when summertime is over the fun doesn’t end at Rotorua Rafting! We often get asked, “do you raft in winter?” We sure do! And we can think of so many reasons why it’s an awesome time of year to experience the Kaituna River!

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March 22, 2022

1 minute

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Cancellation Policy

Our cancellation policy!

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Happy Woman Ziplines over Tutea Falls in Rotorua

March 19, 2022

4min

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Welcoming the launch of Rotorua Ziplines

Introducing Rotoruas next must-do adventure activity; Zipline over waterfalls! Okere Adventures & Rotorua Rafting are proud to announce the launch of Rotorua Ziplines. Raft down & fly over the Kaituna River, Okere Awa, Okere Falls & Tutea Falls!

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February 13, 2022

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Meet the Rotorua Rafting Crew: Sam Sutton

Meet the owner of Rotorua Rafting and 4x Extreme Kayaking World Champion. Sam is the man behind our brand.

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NZ Herald Article on computer by Jessica Wynne Lockhart

January 27, 2022

2min

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Rotorua Rafting among Māori tourism operators redefining sustainable travel

In a recent NZ Herald article by Jessica Wynne Lockhart, Rotorua Rafting was placed up there with some of the leading Māori tourism operators in the country.

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Kids Playing in Hammock - Best Activities Rotorua

November 12, 2021

2min

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The Best School Holiday Activities in Rotorua

It can be hard to keep our kids entertained during the school holidays. Luckily, Rotorua has an array of awesome activities to keep the whole family entertained these holidays! So, we've put together a handy list of the best school holiday activities in Rotorua.

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December 30, 2021

2 minutes

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Covid restrictions - ORANGE LIght

Covid Restrictions - ORANGE We are fully operational, and can take those who have vaccine passes and those that don't. Please be open with us and let us know your status so that we can make your trip run seamlessly and just have the best time out rafting.

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Rotorua Rafting Rated #1 Experience in New Zealand

December 10, 2021

2min

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Rotorua Rafting Take Out the 2021 Travellers Choice Awards

Rotorua Rafting is stoked to have taken out some amazing awards in the 2021 TravellersChoice Awards! Let us show you why were we're voted #1 Experience in New Zealand and #2 in the WORLD

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November 30, 2021

30 seconds

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Covid Restrictions RED LIGHT

COVID RESTRICTIONS - We will be rafting in RED in the new traffic light system.

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View from above of raft on the Kaituna River, Okere Falls NZ

November 20, 2021

2min

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Kaituna River Rafting: A Detailed Guide to the Kaituna River & White Water Rafting

Rafting the Kaituna River is one of the most epic ways to experience white water in New Zealand, even the world. Though you shouldn't need any more than that to send it with the best, here's a guide to the Kaituna River & a bit of info about whitewater rafting!

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November 11, 2021

3min

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Celebrating 10 Years of Rotorua Rafting

This November, Rotorua Rafting celebrates 10 epic years of whitewater rafting on the Kaituna River! We want to say a HUGE thank you to everyone who has supported us over the years, we can't do it without you.

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August 1, 2021

3min

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How Rotorua Rafting Celebrated Mahuru Māori

We're nearing the end of Mahuru Māori - the month long Reo Māori challenge. A big part of Rotorua Rafting is incorporating local iwi history & Te Reo into our experience. Here's how we celebrated Mahuru Māori.

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July 5, 2021

2min

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What the Rotorua Rafting Crew get up to during Lockdown

What happens when you put a bunch of hyperactive raft guides into lockdown for a month?Well, they get creative...

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May 10, 2021

4min

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Our 8 Favourite White Water Rafting Spots in New Zealand

There’s no two ways about it – New Zealand is a mecca for keen kayakers and whitewater rafters. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an envelope-pushing expert after an adrenaline surge or a calm paddle, there’s something for everyone. Read on and discover Rotorua Rafting’s top eight favourite spots for rafting in NZ.

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August 9, 2021

3min

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Top 10 Things to Do in Rotorua

Known as the adventure capital of New Zealand, there’s no shortage of ways to keep busy in Rotorua.‍ Whether you are looking for spouting geysers, Maori culture or an activity to get the heart pumping, you’ll find it here. The hardest part is knowing where to start, which is why we created this list of the top 10 things to do in Rotorua.

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September 8, 2021

3min

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Discover the Fascinating History of the Kaituna River

Okere Falls & the Kaituna River is considered the epicentre of NZ’s whitewater kayaking and rafting scene, but it holds a lot of historic & cultural significance to this day. Read about the fascinating history of the Kaituna.

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January 8, 2021

6 min

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Things to do in Rotorua post lockdown

Another round of lockdown has been hard on everyone in NZ. We've put together some of our favourite things to do in Rotorua, Post Lockdown!

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