If your wondering what to expect when rafting in Rotorua, here’s what happened the first time I did it. With so much excitement packed into 3 hours, I loved it.
“Get down!” Joel yells to the raft full of passengers, just seconds before the raft takes a plunge off of the waterfall. The raft drops down the 7 meter falls, I take a breath and feel the water rush over me. We pop up! We did it! We have just rafted over the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world! We all celebrate, touching our paddles together in victory and screaming like children. “Rafting in Rotorua is my favourite” I yell, I feel on top of the world. The trees surrounding us are green and fresh, I take a deep breath, inhaling the sudden tranquility of the pool beneath the falls…
What to expect from the Kaituna River
The beautiful Kaituna river is located to the east of Rotorua, with Kaituna translating to “Eel food” as it was a very popular hunting ground for Maori tribes years ago. The top section of the river is an extremely popular spot for recreational activities, including rafting and sledging. The raft-able section of the river contains 13 rapids and 3 waterfalls, including the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world – Tutea falls, which is a massive 7 metres tall.
Because the Kaituna river is fed from two lakes, as opposed to mountains, it makes the river reasonably warm all year round. This means rafting is perfect for rain or shine, winter or summer, making it one of Rotorua’s top attractions and a MUST DO on many people’s bucket lists.
What to expect on the day
You do not need any experience to raft the Kaituna river with Kaitiaki Adventures. They will teach you all that you need to know and ensure you get down safely, all whilst having fun! You will also be provided with most of the gear needed, all you need to bring with you is your swimwear and a towel. The colder months aren’t a problem either, so no excuses! You will be provided with everything you need to keep you warm. A complimentary shuttle from your accommodation is offered, as is free car parking should you wish to drive yourself there.
Wishing to complete other activities in the same day? No problem! Your rafting experience will take roughly three hours from pickup to drop off. You will spend about 1 hour of jam-packed action on the water, the rest of this time involves an easy going bus ride, getting your gear and looking at plenty of wicked pics!
“Thank you so much!” I exclaim to Joel as I jump off of the bus, my mind is still racing with images of white water, amazing native New Zealand bush and happy faces. I can’t stop smiling, thank goodness I bought the pictures or else no one would believe me! I can’t wait to tell everyone in the hostel. They must do this!
