Kawarau River White Water Rafting by RealNZ, Queenstown
Kawarau River White Water Rafting by RealNZ, Queenstown
Duration: 4.5 hours (approx.)
4.5 hours (approx.)
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience
Expert local tour guide
Expert local tour guide
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Get your booking confirmed instantly
Experience thrilling grade 2–3 rapids on the Kawarau River with RealNZ’s White Water Rafting in Queenstown, New Zealand. The adventure includes navigating the iconic 400m Dog Leg rapid over a span of 4.5 hours under the guidance of certified experts. Set against Central Otago's stunning vineyard landscapes, this rafting journey starts from the Rafting Base with all necessary gear provided for your safety and enjoyment.
Experience thrilling grade 2–3 rapids on the Kawarau River with RealNZ’s White Water Rafting in Queenstown, New Zealand. The adventure includes navigating the iconic 400m Dog Leg rapid over a span of 4.5 hours under the guidance of certified experts. Set against Central Otago's stunning vineyard landscapes, this rafting journey starts from the Rafting Base with all necessary gear provided for your safety and enjoyment.
Experience a beginner-friendly rafting trip on the Kawarau River’s grade 2-3 rapids with RealNZ. This adventure is ideal for first-timers seeking both fun and scenic views.
Navigate through wide channels of the river, enjoy swimming in calm stretches, and face the thrilling challenge of tackling the 400-meter-long Dog Leg rapid against your friends.
While paddling along rugged gorges past vineyards and famous filming sites from The Lord of the Rings, explore the stunning scenery of Central Otago.
Did you know? Historically used by Māori for travel, trade, and gathering food, the Kawarau River flows into the turquoise waters of Lake Dunstan.
Entry to a 1-hour Kawarau River rafting experience
Access to experienced guides for your rafting adventure
Return bus transfer between Queenstown and the Rafting Base
Includes all necessary rafting equipment with safety gear like wetsuits and helmets
Covers use of hot showers post-rafting session
Ticket for a 25-minute jet boat ride (based on selected option)
Food (can be purchased at Canyon Brewing Queenstown after the trip)
Tourist in life jacket swimming in Kawarau River during white water rafting adventure.
Your Experience
This 4.5-hour Kawarau River rafting journey in New Zealand offers an exciting ride through grade 2–3 rapids with certified guides, including the renowned 400m Dog Leg rapid.
Getting Started
The adventure begins at Queenstown's Rafting Base where you'll receive your safety briefing and gear up. You’ll be equipped with wetsuits and necessary equipment before boarding a shuttle for transport to the river’s starting point.
What to Expect
Located in Central Otago, known for its vineyard landscapes, The Kawarau River is celebrated for accessible yet thrilling whitewater rafting. Highlighted by New Zealand's longest commercially rafted rapid, it promises excitement for both novices and experienced thrill-seekers.
Features
- Navigate the iconic Dog Leg rapid: Test your teamwork and paddling skills on this 400m stretch, known as the country’s longest commercial rapid.
- Optional cliff jumping adventure: If water levels allow, add an extra thrill with a daring cliff jump.
- A scenic river route awaits you: Enjoy paddling through areas bordered by Central Otago vineyards for stunning views of the region’s natural beauty.
- Ensuring safety and comfort: All necessary safety gear is provided, with hot showers and secure lockers available at Queenstown's Rafting Base post-rafting.
- A return shuttle to downtown Queenstown ensures a smooth end to your adventure after the exhilarating ride on The Kawarau River.
Tourist jumping into Kawarau River during white water rafting adventure.
Tourists rafting on Kawarau River between rocky cliffs in New Zealand.
Tourist in life jacket swimming in Kawarau River during white water rafting adventure.
Tourist jumping into Kawarau River during white water rafting adventure.
Tourists rafting on Kawarau River between rocky cliffs in New Zealand.
Tourists in life vests rafting on Kawarau River, New Zealand.
What to bring
- Wear a swimsuit and towel; wetsuits should be worn over swimwear.
- Have your valid photo ID ready for age verification if needed at check-in.
Carry only essentials, as secure lockers are available for small valuables at the Rafting Base.
What’s not allowed
- Cameras and recording devices like GoPros aren't permitted on rafts due to safety concerns.
- Wearing jeans or cotton under wetsuits is prohibited.
- Avoid large bags and non-essential valuables since storage space is limited.
- Spectators can't join because of the remote location; friends and family won’t be able to watch from shore.
This adventure isn't suitable for guests under 40kg (88.18lb), over 120kg (264.55lb), or younger than 13 years due to safety reasons.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessibility is not provided.
- Pregnant individuals and those with back, cardiac issues, or serious medical conditions should refrain from participating.
- You need to swim 25m unaided and maintain moderate fitness levels for this activity.
Understanding safety briefings in English is necessary unless you have a translator with your group.
Additional information
- Signing a waiver form is mandatory for all participants.
- Guests under 16 need to be accompanied by an adult, and those under 18 require guardian-signed waivers.
- Participants must feel confident in water conditions, able to swim in swift currents, and follow guide instructions precisely.
- A moderate level of physical fitness is required for this activity.
- The operator may refuse participation or cancel/amend trips based on river, road, weather conditions, or insufficient numbers for safety reasons.
- Trips are subject to changes due to weather, water levels, and temperatures; cancellations or substitutions can occur if necessary.
- Confirm your booking at least 24 hours before departure as trips require minimum participant numbers.
- Complete safety briefings and all essential rafting equipment are provided to you.
- Hot showers and toilets are available for use at the Rafting Base.
- Post-trip, Canyon Brewing Queenstown offers food and beverages for purchase.
- All guides leading this adventure hold professional qualifications and certifications.
- Participation entails inherent risks; absolute safety cannot be assured.
Until September ends, 1% of all online bookings contribute to the protection of the Pukunui NZ Southern Dotterel.
Rafting on Kawarau River with bridge and rocky cliffs in background.
Tourists in life vests rafting on Kawarau River, New Zealand.
Rafting on Kawarau River with bridge and rocky cliffs in background.
Book your rafting spot at least a day in advance during peak season to avoid sold-out sessions and ensure you get on this thrilling adventure.
Bring your own swimsuit and towel for comfort; remember wetsuits fit best with swimwear only, so plan accordingly.
If planning multiple visits around Queenstown, start from the furthest point and work back to make the most of your day efficiently.
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