Frequently asked questions

FAQ’S

The most frequently asked questions (FAQ’s), all in one spot to answer those umm.. moments. If we have missed any, feel free to let us know and we can add them to our FAQ’s!!

Do I need experience?

No! You don’t need any experience, 80% of our rafters have never rafted before and our guides will teach you everything that you need to know.

When is the best time to go rafting?

ANYTIME! We raft year round and will dress you accordingly, so don’t worry about getting cold.

Is the river cold?

This is our most commonly asked FAQ – Nope! We are lucky to have one of the warmest rivers in the country. In the summer, the river is around 24 degrees and in winter it is around 12 degrees which is super warm for NZ.

What do I need to bring?

All you need is a swimsuit and towel – we will provide the rest! Don’t have a swimsuit? Just bring along underwear to wear under the wetsuit. We will provide a wetsuit, neoprene jacket (in the winter) and boots for your feet and of course all safety gear.

Do I need to be able to swim?

No! You don’t need to be an olympic swimmer or a swimmer for that matter. Every rafter wears a personal floatation device (PFD). This is a critical piece of equipment, designed to aid in keeping you afloat in the event you are in the water. We take many non-swimmers and they have a great time. We do need to ensure on check in and again after the safety briefing that non swimmers understand the risks and feel happy that they may end up in the water, although help is generally not too far away, with guides and safety on the river.

Is rafting safe?

We are very lucky in that the Kaituna river is thrilling, exciting, and unbelievely fun, it is also one of the safest rivers in New Zealand. However, as with all adventure sports, there is inherent and assumed risk involved. Risk does add to the excitement and is one of the reasons people enjoy rafting. We do our very best to minimise and manage risk.

What is the minimum age?

To get the full Kaituna experience, waterfalls and all, you need to be 13 or older. This is to meet the standard minimum age for New Zealand Grade 4/5 rivers. We offer to walk those under 13 but over 10, to below the waterfall so that they can enjoy the second half of the trip. This is a grade 3 section.

Do I need to be physically fit?

No, you don’t need to have just climbed Mt Everest, but an average fitness is preferred for your comfort.

Is there a maximum age?

Not really, the oldest person we have taken rafting was 86 years old. As long as you feel fit and able, we would love to take you rafting.

Is there a maximum weight limit?

It’s not always about the number on the scale, although this is considered. We do say a max of 130kg. It is more about the shape of the rafter though and If you can fit our safety gear, we can generally take you rafting. Our wetsuits start at XXS – XXXXL, although if you are unsure, please feel free to contact us.

Should I book in advance?

Yes and No! Our trips do fill up quickly, especially over the peak rafting season; Dec-March.
We do recommend pre-booking to save disappointment, however, we do our best to cater for walk-ins and last minute reservations.

How many people fit in a raft?

There are 6-7 people per raft dependent on river conditions.

What is the maximum number you can take rafting?

We can take up to 300 rafters a day. We run trips every hour and a half so can cater for big groups , stag and hen groups, exclusive trips, school groups and work dos! We can generally make it work.

I'm travelling by myself will I be ok? Can I join others?

Absolutely! Rafting is an incredibly social activity and you will probably end up with some new friends to have a beer with after.

Do we need to fill a whole raft?

Not at all! Rafting is very social and you will be popped in a raft with others.

How do I get there?

We offer a shuttle from Central Rotorua, but most rafters find it easier to drive straight out to us. Our base is located right across the road from the ‘put in’ and we have lots of safe car parking! Easy for us, easy for you!

Do you have lockers?

Yes, we have communal lockers that are locked for the duration of your rafting trip.

What about lunch?

Don’t panic, we are lucky enough to have the Okere Falls store right next door. Check out okerefallsstore.co.nz for menu options. They also have a beer garden, which is perfect for that after raft refreshment.

Can I buy photos?

Absolutely, a popular FAQ.  We have a team of professional photographers out there catching your best pose in a wetsuit. There are a few options and these are available for purchase after the trip.

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“A great way to bring the whole crew together, we had an absolute blast! “
Ian Willis – Tauranga, NZ