Rafting and Kayaking
The Rotorua region has rivers with Grade III to Grade V rapids that make excellent white-water rafting. For scenic beauty—and best for first-timers—the Rangitaiki River (Grades III–IV) is recommended. For experienced rafters, the Wairoa River has exhilarating Grade V rapids. The climax of a rafting trip on the Kaituna River is the drop over the 21-foot Okere Falls, among the highest to be rafted by a commercial operator anywhere. The various operators run similar trips on a daily schedule, though different rivers are open at different times of year, depending on water levels. All equipment and instruction are provided, plus transportation to and from the departure points—which can be up to 80 km (50 miles) from Rotorua. Prices start around NZ$90 for the short (one-hour) Kaituna run; a half day on the Rangitaiki costs from NZ$120. Many operators sell combination trips.
Kaitiaki Adventures. The well-qualified team at Kaitiaki Adventures leads daily rafting trips on the Kaituna River (NZ$95). For a variation on the theme, try white-water sledging—you'll shoot the rapids on a specially designed plastic raft the size of a boogie board, and then soak in a natural hotpool; the cost is NZ$109 to NZ$299, gear included. 1135 Te Ngae Rd., Rotorua, Bay of Plenty, 3074. 0800/338–736; www.kaitiaki.co.nz.
Kaituna Cascades. This company knows the river it takes its name from like the back of its hand. It organizes one-day or multiday expeditions using rafts or kayaks with a focus on fun and safety. A rafting trip will cost NZ$89; a double kayak ride is NZ$140 (note that there is a 185-pounds weight limit). Trout Pool Rd., Rotorua, Bay of Plenty. 07/345–4199; 0800/524–8862; www.kaitunacascades.co.nz.
Raftabout. This outfit focuses on day trips, some pairing rafting with jet-boating. State Hwy. 33, Okere Falls, Rotorua, Bay of Plenty, 3015. 07/343–9500; 0800/723–822; www.raftabout.co.nz.
River Rats. Day trips to the main rivers are organized by River Rats; adventure packages are available, too. 391 State Hwy. 33, Mourea, Rotorua, Bay of Plenty. 07/345–6543; 0800/333–900; www.riverrats.co.nz.
Wet 'n' Wild Rafting. One-day itineraries cover the Rangitaiki, Wairoa, and Kaituna rivers. Wet 'n' Wild Rafting also has multi-adventure and double-trip options. 2 White St., Rotorua, Bay of Plenty. 07/348–3191; 0800/462–7238; www.wetnwildrafting.co.nz.
