Kaituna River Rafting
The world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall. Right here in Rotorua.
Grade 5 · 14 Rapids · 7m Tutea Falls · From $135pp
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. 9:00am · 10:30am · 12:00pm 10:00am · 12:00pm · 2:00pm (others on demand!) Other times available on request — call 0800 772 384 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. 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. You’ll spend about 1 hour on the river. Allow 2 hours total, including briefing, gearing up, and returning to base. Minimum age is 13 for the Grade 5 full trip (including Tutea Falls), or 10 years for the Grade 3 half trip. Yes — Tutea Falls is part of the Grade 5 Kaituna River run. It’s safe, exhilarating, and the undisputed highlight of the trip! Just a swimsuit and a towel. We provide all safety equipment including wetsuits, helmets, and life jackets. Yes — free return transfers from central Rotorua are included with all bookings. Transfer pickup times are confirmed at booking.Kaituna Rafting in Rotorua, New Zealand
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 Free from central Rotorua 📸 Photos Available to purchase post-trip Trip Times
🌞 Summer (Oct 1 – Apr 30)
1:30pm · 3:00pm (others on demand!)❄️ Winter (May 1 – Sep 30)
Three Waterfalls. One Unforgettable Hour.
Kaituna Rafting FAQs
Do I need rafting experience?
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Is the 7m Tutea Falls compulsory?
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Are transfers from Rotorua included?