Kaituna River Rafting
The world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall. Right here in Rotorua.
Grade 5 · 14 Rapids · 7m Tutea Falls · From $135pp
Kaituna Rafting in Rotorua, New Zealand
Kaituna River rafting is Rotorua’s most iconic adventure activity — and for good reason. The Kaituna River descends through 14 thundering Grade 5 rapids, culminating in the legendary Tutea Falls: a 7-metre plunge that holds the title of the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall.
Located at Ōkere Falls, just 20 minutes from Rotorua city centre, this is whitewater rafting at its absolute best. Our expert Kiwi guides have paddled this river thousands of times — they know every rapid, every line, and every story the river has to tell.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned rafter, the Kaituna River will deliver an hour of pure, heart-pumping whitewater you won’t forget.
Tour at a Glance
| ⏱ Duration | 1 hour on the river (2 hrs total) |
| 💰 Price | From $135 per person |
| 🌊 Grade | Grade 5 (Grade 3 option available) |
| 👶 Min Age | 13 yrs (Grade 5) / 10 yrs (Grade 3) |
| ⚖️ Max Weight | 140kg |
| 🎒 What to Bring | Swimsuit & towel only |
| 🚌 Transfers | Pick up/Drop off service from Central Rotorua for $15pp |
| 📸 Photos | Available to purchase post-trip |
Trip Times
🌞 Summer (Oct 1 – Apr 30)
9:00am · 10:30am · 12:00pm
1:30pm · 3:00pm
❄️ Winter (May 1 – Sep 30)
10:00am · 12:00pm · 2:00pm
Other times available on request — call 0800 772 384
THE EXPERIENCE
Three Waterfalls. One Unforgettable Hour.
The Kaituna River punches well above its size. In just one hour, you’ll drop through three waterfalls — Okere Falls, Kaituna Falls, and the grand finale: the 7-metre Tutea Falls.
Your guides aren’t just safety professionals — they’re storytellers who’ll share the history of the river and what makes the Kaituna one of the world’s great whitewater runs.
No experience? No problem. All you need to bring is a sense of adventure.
THE RIVER
The Kaituna River — Rotorua’s Finest Whitewater
The Kaituna River is one of the most iconic whitewater runs in the world. Fed by Lake Rotorua, it carves through native bush and ancient lava rock before dropping into the legendary Tutea Falls gorge.
Every trip is guided by Kaituna River specialists — people who have run this river hundreds of times and know every eddy, every line, and every story it holds.
Kaituna Rafting FAQs
Do I need rafting experience?
No experience is necessary at all. Our certified guides will brief you fully before you get on the water. The Kaituna River suits first-timers and experienced rafters alike.
How long does the Kaituna rafting trip take?
You’ll spend about 1 hour on the river. Allow 2 hours total, including briefing, gearing up, and returning to base.
What is the minimum age?
Minimum age is 13 for the Grade 5 full trip (including Tutea Falls), or 10 years for the Grade 3 half trip.
Is the 7m Tutea Falls compulsory?
Yes — Tutea Falls is part of the Grade 5 Kaituna River run. It’s safe, exhilarating, and the undisputed highlight of the trip!
What do I need to bring?
Just a swimsuit and a towel. We provide all safety equipment including wetsuits, helmets, and life jackets.
Are transfers from Rotorua included?
Yes — free return transfers from central Rotorua are included with all bookings. Transfer pickup times are confirmed at booking.