ROTORUA RAFTING FIELD GUIDE
Raft the Kaituna: Run 14 Rapids and Drop the 7‑m Tutea — the World’s Highest Commercially Rafted Waterfall
A 3-hour round-trip whitewater rafting experience on the Kaituna River (ages 13+), covering 14 rapids and three waterfalls including the 7‑m Tutea Falls; this guide lays out logistics, what to bring, and who this trip suits.
Raft the Kaituna: Run 14 Rapids and Drop the 7‑m Tutea — the World’s Highest Commercially Rafted Waterfall.
Embark on an exhilarating run down the Kaituna River through steep, native bush–clad canyons, where fourteen whitewater rapids and three waterfalls culminate in the world‑renowned 7‑metre Tutea Falls. The trip blends adrenaline with cultural context—guides weave in the Māori significance of the river while providing professional instruction and river equipment to keep first‑timers and experienced rafters safe and engaged.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Tutea Falls — 7 metres, world‑class
The itinerary includes the 7‑metre Tutea Falls, identified as the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world, a signature moment of the Kaituna run.
Fourteen rapids and three waterfalls
The journey threads through steep canyon walls and native bush, delivering fourteen separate rapids and a total of three waterfalls along the route for continuous whitewater action.
Culture, safety and full kit provided
Kaitiaki Adventures pairs the river run with elements of Māori cultural significance and supplies professional guides, top‑tier river equipment and courtesy transport so guests can focus on the experience.
What the day feels like
What to Expect on the Water
Expect an adrenaline‑charged passage as you snake through native bush‑lined canyons, tackling a series of rapids that build to the Tutea Falls. The run is guided and suitable for a range of skill levels, with onshore briefings and equipment provided to ensure a safe, memorable trip.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip fits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring swimwear, a towel and an adventurous attitude; the operator supplies river equipment.
Travel light to the check‑in point with only the items listed (swimwear and towel) and be prepared to change into supplied wetsuits and protective gear.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What do I need to bring with me?
Please bring your swimwear, towel and your sense of adventure. Kaitiaki Adventures provides everything else needed for safety on the river, including wetsuits, booties and PFDs.
Do I need to be a great swimmer?
Being a competent swimmer is not necessary for rafting. Guides will ask about swimming ability at check‑in and discuss precautions.
Do I need previous rafting experience?
No previous experience is required. Kaitiaki Adventures provides all the training and assistance needed throughout the trip.
How warm is the water?
Summer (October–March): expect 17–22°C. Winter (April–September): expect 11–16°C.
Can I participate if I need to cover my skin for cultural or religious reasons?
Yes. Full long John‑style wetsuits with long‑sleeved jackets, booties and helmets are provided; you may wear a swimming burka or other neck‑covering under the helmet, but coverings over the nose or mouth are not permitted. Separate changing areas can be arranged on request.
Is there a weight restriction?
If you are over 125 kg, contact the operator before booking so they can ensure safety gear fits and functions as required.