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Activity Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown Kawarau River Whitewater Rafting

4.9 (74 reviews) 4 h 30 min Free cancellation
Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Queenstown Kawarau River Whitewater Rafting

About this activity

Raft the Kawarau River, perhaps better known as the River Anduin in Lord of the Rings, for a great half-day activity in Queenstown This is a perfect introduction to whitewater rafting for first-timers. There will be plenty of rapids action plus time to sit back and enjoy the spectacular scenery. Catch the free shuttle from the centre of town out to the raft base where you will be fitted out with all your gear.

Your rafting adventure covers 8-kilometers of the river. Take on grade 2-3 rapids and perhaps the occasional grade 2-4 rapid, when there are higher water levels. Enjoy flat stretches of river between the rapids where you have the opportunity to race your friends on the other rafts or jump out and swim. Conclude your adventure by rafting the longest commercially rafted rapid in New Zealand, the Dog Leg. This is a 400-meter long and grade 3/4 rapid. Add some extra excitement by joining in on the optional cliff jumping section, or sit back and watch your friends take a leap.

Extreme Sports Rafting White Water Rafting On the Water Excellent Quality Low Supplier Cancellation Rate Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate New Product

At a glance

Duration
4 h 30 min
Confirmation
Instant confirmation
Ticket
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group
Up to 20 people
People per booking
1–10
Guide
English
Operated by
RealNZ

Ages: Adults (13–99 years)

What is included

Included

  • Included: Use of hot showers
  • Included: Coach transport to and from Raft Base
  • Included: Wetsuit, rafting clothing and all other equipment provided
  • Included: Extensive safety instructions and paddling techniques

Not included

  • Not included: Snacks: Food and drinks

Itinerary

Meet our team at the RealNZ Visitor Centre at 88 Beach Street, Queenstown to begin your adventure! The courtesy coach will take you to raft base to collect all the gear included as part of the package. Once your all kitted up and ready to go, the raft guides will take you to the beginning of the rapids for the extensive safety briefing. Raft through grade 2-3 rapids, take in the beautiful views, choose to join in on the optional rock jumping section for added fun. Please note for safety we have minimum weight restriction of 40 kg and maximum weight of 120 kg to participate.

  1. Stop 1

  2. Kawarau River

  3. Lake Wakatipu

  4. Queenstown

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

  • Check-in is required at least 20 minute prior to your departure time.

End point

  • Check-in is required at least 20 minute prior to your departure time.

Using your ticket

The restrictions for rafting are:

  • Participation in rafting activities involves a degree of risk and the rafting operator cannot absolutely guarantee participants' safety. Detailed whitewater rafting risk disclosures are available on the RealNZ website.

-Travelers with a heart condition or high/low blood pressure, including that controlled with medication, are not able to participate.

-There is a minimum weight of 40 kg and maximum weight of 120 kg.

-You are required to have competent swimming ability and moderate fitness.

-Minimum age of 13 years old.

-Guardian conditions apply for 18 years and younger.

-You cannot participate if you are pregnant.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel You get back
At least one day before 100%
Less than a day before 0%
  • The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.
  • The operator may cancel if too few people book; you then get another date or your money back.

Good to know

  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers

  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

  • You must bring a swimsuit and towel

  • Maximum weight 120kg

  • Minimum weight 40kg

  • Minimum age is 13 years. Children aged between 13 and 15 years must be accompanied by a guardian

  • Rafting with any heart condition is prohibited

  • Rafting while pregnant is prohibited

  • Must be able to swim confidently

  • Participation in rafting activities involves a degree of risk and the rafting operator cannot absolutely guarantee participants' safety. Detailed whitewater rafting risk disclosures are available on the RealNZ website.

Traveller ratings

4.9 out of 5 · 74 reviews
5
93%
4
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1%
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Activities, prices and reviews are from Viator. Booking and payment happen on Viator; Vacantier may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Queenstown Kawarau River Whitewater Rafting

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