Whitewater rafting on Shotover River, Queenstown, navigating rocky gorge.
Whitewater rafting on Shotover River, Queenstown, with participants paddling.
Whitewater rafting on Shotover River, Queenstown, navigating rocky canyon.
Rafters in gear smiling on Shotover River, Queenstown, during a whitewater rafting adventure.
Whitewater rafting on Shotover River, Queenstown, with lush green cliffs in the background.
Whitewater rafters smiling on Shotover River, Queenstown adventure.
Whitewater rafting on Shotover River, Queenstown, with a group navigating rapids in a blue raft.

Shotover River White Water Rafting by RealNZ, Queenstown

Queenstown
Rafting
Google Verified Seller

Duration: 4.5 hours

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 Shotover River White Water Rafting by RealNZ in Queenstown, New Zealand for an exhilarating journey down six grade 3–5 rapids on this thrilling 4.5-hour adventure. Begin your trip with a shuttle ride to the Rafting Base and prepare as you travel through Skippers Canyon toward the river's launch point. The Shotover River is celebrated for its challenging rapids and stunning canyon scenery, offering an exciting destination for whitewater rafting enthusiasts in New Zealand.

Experience thrilling grade 3-5 rapids on a two-hour rafting adventure down New Zealand's Shotover River with expert guidance.

Start an exciting coach journey through Skippers Canyon’s narrow path as it winds along the Shotover River, surrounded by towering cliffs up to 22 km long.

Discover history while traversing the 170m-long Oxenbridge Tunnel from the gold rush era and then emerge into Cascade Rapid's white water excitement.

Navigate intense rapids with panoramic views of Remarkables mountains as you paddle through rugged schist cliffs along New Zealand’s Shotover River.

Did you know? The Shotover River was once dubbed 'the richest river in the world' during the gold rush due to its abundant gold deposits.

Admission to a thrilling 2-hour Shotover River White Water Rafting by RealNZ experience

Access to professional guides for expert rafting assistance on the Shotover River in Queenstown, New Zealand

Entry ticket including round-trip bus transfer between Queenstown and Skippers Canyon's Rafting Base near The Shotover River

Ticket includes all necessary rafting equipment such as wetsuit and helmet, ensuring safety during your adventure

Use of hot showers after the exhilarating rafting session on New Zealand’s renowned Shotover River

Individual Costs

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

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

Your Experience in Queenstown's Shotover River Rafting Adventure

Engage in an exhilarating 4.5-hour whitewater rafting experience on New Zealand’s renowned Shotover River, navigating six grade 3–5 rapids with expert guides.

Getting Started

Your adventure begins in Queenstown, where a shuttle will transport you to the Rafting Base for your safety briefing and gear fitting. After meeting your professional guides, start a scenic coach ride through Skippers Canyon en route to the river’s launch point.

What to Expect

The Shotover River is celebrated for its challenging rapids and dramatic canyon scenery, making it an iconic destination for whitewater rafting in New Zealand. Located between Queenstown and The Shotover Rafting Base, this adventure offers a thrilling exploration of the region’s natural beauty.

Features

  • Navigate six exhilarating grade 3–5 rapids on your journey down the river, providing an exciting challenge for water-competent swimmers.
  • Savor a scenic coach ride along cliffside roads in Skippers Canyon, showcasing New Zealand’s stunning rugged landscape.
  • Experience rafting through the unique Oxenbridge tunnel, which spans 170m, adding an memorable twist to your adventure on Shotover River White Water Rafting by RealNZ.
  • Ride in small group rafts with a maximum of eight people each for a more intimate and thrilling experience.
  • Enjoy comfort and safety throughout the trip, as all wetsuits, jackets, helmets, and necessary safety equipment are provided. Hot showers await at the end to refresh you after your adventure.
Whitewater rafting on Shotover River, Queenstown, with participants paddling.

Whitewater rafting on Shotover River, Queenstown, with participants paddling.

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.

What to bring

  • A swimsuit and towel are essential for post-rafting use.
  • If under 18, a valid photo ID is required as proof of age may be necessary.

Only carry essentials; lockers at the Rafting Base provide storage options.

What’s not allowed

  • No cameras or recording devices on rafts due to safety concerns.
  • Personal clothing for rafting is prohibited, as all necessary gear will be supplied.
  • Spectators are barred from the river because of its remote location and terrain.
  • Non-swimmers, pregnant individuals, or those with heart conditions (except managed blood pressure) cannot participate.
  • If you don’t understand English safety briefings, ensure a translator accompanies you to join.
  • Safety is prioritized; valuables are discouraged from being brought along.

Guests under the weight of 40kg (88.18lb), over 118kg (260.15lb) or below age 13 cannot participate due to safety restrictions.

Accessibility

  • The experience lacks full wheelchair accessibility.

Pregnant individuals and those with back, cardiac issues, or serious medical conditions are not eligible for participation.

Additional information

  • All participants should be water-competent (able to swim 25m unaided) and have moderate fitness levels.
  • A waiver form must be signed by all participants.
  • Guides' instructions are crucial; listen attentively at all times.
  • Trip conditions such as weather, river level, and water temperature may lead to cancellations or route changes for safety reasons.
  • Potential portages might be required due to variations in water levels and flow.
  • Glasses with sports straps are permitted; sunglasses follow the same rule.
  • Hot showers, toilets, and lockers are available at the Rafting Base for convenience.
  • Rafting activities carry inherent risks; absolute safety cannot be guaranteed.

The operator reserves rights to refuse participation or alter trips due to river, road, weather conditions, or insufficient numbers prioritizing guest safety.

Whitewater rafting on Shotover River, Queenstown, with lush green cliffs in the background.

Whitewater rafting on Shotover River, Queenstown, with lush green cliffs in the background.

Whitewater rafters smiling on Shotover River, Queenstown adventure.

Whitewater rafters smiling on Shotover River, Queenstown adventure.

Book your rafting session in advance during peak season to ensure availability and avoid disappointment.

Wear a swimsuit and bring a towel for use after your adventure on the Shotover River.

If you are under 18, remember to carry a valid photo ID as proof of age may be requested at check-in.

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