Whitewater rafting on Shotover River, Queenstown, with a group navigating rapids in a blue raft.
Whitewater rafting on Shotover River, Queenstown, navigating rocky canyon.
Rafters in gear smiling on Shotover River, Queenstown, during a whitewater rafting adventure.
Jet boat speeding on Kawarau River with passengers enjoying the ride.
Group enjoying a thrilling jet boat ride on Kawarau River, New Zealand.
Jet boat navigating Kawarau River rapids with passengers in Queenstown, New Zealand.
Jet boat speeding on Kawarau River with passengers, surrounded by lush greenery.

Kawarau River White Water Rafting and Jet Boat Ride by RealNZ, Queenstown

Queenstown
Rafting
Google Verified Seller

Duration: 4.5 hours (approx.)

Free cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience

Transfers included
Transfers included
Guided tour

Expert local tour guide

Get your booking confirmed instantly

Experience Queenstown's thrilling Kawarau River White Water Rafting and Jet Boat Ride by RealNZ, where your adventure begins with an exhilarating jet boat ride to the river launch site. The journey offers a lively introduction to white water rafting on one of New Zealand’s most accessible rivers, perfect for beginners eager to test their skills in picturesque surroundings. After checking-in at the meeting point and receiving a safety briefing from staff, you're set for a day filled with excitement on the Kawarau River's renowned rapids.

Experience a thrilling combination of jet boating and whitewater rafting on The Kawarau River with RealNZ. This is perfect for both thrill-seekers and those new to the sport.

Speed through the river at up to 95 km/h, navigating canyon walls and executing exhilarating 360° turns during this exciting adventure in Queenstown, New Zealand.

Paddle along an 8-kilometer stretch of whitewater on The Kawarau River. Encounter grade 2–3 rapids (grade 4 when water levels are high) and have the opportunity to take a cliff jump.

Conquer the longest commercially rafted rapid in New Zealand, known as the 400m Dog Leg rapid. Then enjoy drifting through picturesque landscapes featured in films.

Discover that Kawarau Bridge is close by; it's renowned for hosting the world’s first commercial bungee jump back in 1988.

Entry to 1-hour Kawarau River rafting

Access to professional guides for rafting

Features a 25-minute jet boat ride on the Kawarau River by RealNZ, Queenstown, New Zealand

Covers round-trip bus transfer between Queenstown and the rafting base (on the cruise)

Includes all necessary rafting and safety equipment such as wetsuit and helmet

Ticket for use of hot showers

Individual Costs

Whitewater rafting on Shotover River, Queenstown, with a group navigating rapids in a blue raft.

Whitewater rafting on Shotover River, Queenstown, with a group navigating rapids in a blue raft.

Your Adventure Awaits

Welcome to an exhilarating experience starting with a jet boat ride on the Kawarau River. Follow this up by taking part in beginner-friendly white water rafting, all under expert guidance.

Getting Started

Gather at your meeting point where staff will confirm your booking and go over essential safety instructions. Set off for an adrenaline-pumping jet boat ride to the launch site on The Kawarau River, preparing you for a memorable day of adventure.

What to Expect

The Kawarau River is celebrated for its easy-to-navigate rapids and stunning views, making it perfect for those new to rafting or anyone eager for an exciting water experience. Located in Queenstown, New Zealand, this activity promises a thrilling introduction to white water adventures.

Features

  • A jet boat transfer will get you started with high-speed excitement as it takes you swiftly from the meeting point to where your rafting journey begins on The Kawarau River.
  • The rapids are beginner-friendly, providing manageable yet thrilling white water conditions ideal for first-timers navigating stretches of The Kawarau River.
  • Experience stunning river views as you float through the picturesque valley, surrounded by clear waters and rugged landscapes.
Whitewater rafting on Shotover River, Queenstown, navigating rocky canyon.

Whitewater rafting on Shotover River, Queenstown, navigating rocky canyon.

Rafters in gear smiling on Shotover River, Queenstown, during a whitewater rafting adventure.

Rafters in gear smiling on Shotover River, Queenstown, during a whitewater rafting adventure.

Jet boat speeding on Kawarau River with passengers enjoying the ride.

Jet boat speeding on Kawarau River with passengers enjoying the ride.

What to bring

  • Your entry ticket or voucher is required for participation.
  • Clothing that's comfortable and suitable for water activities, along with a change of clothes, should be packed.
  • A towel, swimsuit, and sunscreen are recommended for your comfort and protection.

Footwear that can handle getting wet is advised to bring along.

What’s not allowed

  • Large bags, suitcases, or oversized luggage aren't permitted on the premises.
  • Drones are prohibited from being used here.
  • Guests cannot bring outside food or beverages into the area.
  • The use of alcohol, drugs, and any form of intoxication is strictly forbidden during this experience.
  • This activity isn't suitable for guests under 40kg (88.18lb), over 120kg (264.55lb), or younger than 13 years old due to safety reasons.

Cameras are not allowed on the premises during your visit.

Accessibility

  • The experience is not accessible for wheelchair users.

Pregnant individuals and guests with back issues, cardiac problems, or other serious medical conditions should avoid participating in this activity.

Additional information

  • All participants are required to sign a waiver form prior to the experience.
  • Guests under 16 must be accompanied by a guardian and those under 18 need their guardians' signature on a waiver form.
  • Participants should feel confident in water, capable of swimming in fast-moving conditions, and willing to follow guide instructions carefully.
  • A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended for all guests.

The operator may refuse participation or alter trips due to river, road, weather conditions, or insufficient guest numbers for everyone's safety.

Group enjoying a thrilling jet boat ride on Kawarau River, New Zealand.

Group enjoying a thrilling jet boat ride on Kawarau River, New Zealand.

Jet boat navigating Kawarau River rapids with passengers in Queenstown, New Zealand.

Jet boat navigating Kawarau River rapids with passengers in Queenstown, New Zealand.

Bring a towel, swimsuit, and sunscreen for comfort and protection during water activities.

Wear comfortable clothing suitable for wet conditions and bring an extra set of clothes to change into after your adventure.

Avoid bringing large bags or oversized luggage as they are not permitted on the tour.

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FAQs

Round-trip bus transfer between Queenstown and the rafting base is included.
You'll race down the river at speeds up to 95 km/h, skimming past canyon walls and spinning through 360° turns.
Kawarau Bridge is nearby, known as the site of the world’s first commercial bungee jump in 1988.
Yes, use of hot showers is available post-activity for your comfort.
At the designated meeting point, staff will check your booking and provide a quick safety briefing before boarding the jet boat for the river launch site.
Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not permitted on the premises.
Bring a towel, swimsuit, sunscreen, comfortable clothing suitable for water activities, a change of clothes, and secure footwear that can get wet.
Paddle through 8 km of whitewater with grade 2–3 rapids, which include a chance to try a cliff jump and navigate the longest commercially rafted rapid in New Zealand.
All necessary rafting and safety equipment are included, such as wetsuits and helmets.
The adventure includes a mix of jet boating and whitewater rafting, ideal for thrill-seekers and first-time rafters.

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