For Australian travellers
Rafting in New Zealand: The Ultimate Kiwi Adventure for Australians
From scenic family-friendly rafting to full-throttle white water — how to choose the right river, season and trip for your crew.
Looking for an unforgettable outdoor escape close to home? In just a few hours you can swap Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane for clear mountain rivers, rainforest gorges and expert Kiwi guides. Whether you’re new to paddling or have tackled Grade 5 before, rafting in New Zealand delivers the perfect mix of scenery, safety and adrenaline.
Why Australians Flock to New Zealand for Rafting
- Easy to reach: Fly direct to Auckland or Queenstown and be on the river the same day.
- Huge variety: Gentle family-friendly rafting through to world-class Grade 5 — all in one compact country.
- Unreal scenery: Snow-fed water, volcanic cliffs, deep bush and canyon walls.
- Safety you can trust: Registered, audited operators and highly trained guides.
- No gear needed: Wetsuit, booties, helmet and lifejacket supplied — just bring swimwear and a towel.
North Island vs South Island — Which Suits You Best?
North Island
- Tongariro River (Taupō): A year-round classic with dozens of playful rapids, crystal-clear water and epic scenery.
- Kaituna River (Rotorua): Famous for Tutea Falls, a 7 m drop that’s among the highest commercially rafted waterfalls.
- Mohaka River (Hawke’s Bay): Wilderness gorge rafting with day or multi-day options.
Best for: Variety, easy access from Auckland, volcanic landscapes and family-friendly options.
South Island
- Kawarau River (Queenstown): Big-volume flows and soaring canyon walls; great intro to South Island rafting.
- Shotover River (Queenstown): Steeper, faster Grade 4–5 sections for experienced paddlers craving a hit.
- Rangitata Gorge (Canterbury): Remote, powerful rapids in pure alpine water for confident rafters.
Best for: Adrenaline seekers, alpine scenery and action-packed itineraries.
Choosing the Right Rafting Trip
| Grade | What it means | Ideal for | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1–2 | Calm, scenic water with small ripples | Families, cautious beginners | Tongariro Family Rafting |
| 3 | Fun, splashy waves and straightforward lines | Adventurous first-timers and mixed groups | Tongariro Adventure |
| 4–5 | Powerful, technical white water with drops | Experienced rafters and adrenaline seekers | Shotover, Rangitata |
Tip: Travelling with mixed abilities? Book parallel trips on the same day — family-friendly rafting for some, higher-grade runs for others.
