WHO WE ARE
Based in Turangi, just 45 minutes from the Taupo township, Rafting New Zealand has been operating for over 30 years on the Tongariro River. We are extremely proud to be New Zealand’s most awarded rafting company and hold all of the necessary industry certifications to ensure our clients experience the best Adventures as safe as possible.
Maori owned and operated, Rafting New Zealand offer several Family Rafting and Trout Fishing adventures for ages 3 and up around Taupo and Turangi.
Voted Best Rafting Operation in NZ since 2010!
As of 30 April 2021, Lake Rotoaira Forest Trust are 100% owners of Rafting New Zealand and currently contracts Tongariro River Rafting as their interim Operator. Tongariro River Rafting love to raft and love to share their passion for rafting the Tongariro River with all their clients, this enthusiasm for their excellent product is infectious and helps to create the unique experience that is white water rafting with Rafting New Zealand.
Rafting New Zealand first began as Rock ‘n’ River Adventures in 1991. Its founders Rod Brown and Tui Brabyn, had a vision to operate, not necessarily the biggest, but definitely the best white water rafting business in Aotearoa (New Zealand). Rod’s daughter, Pianika and husband Luke Boddington then acquired the business and created the Rafting New Zealand brand. In 2019, Lake Rotoaira Forest Trust became a business partner before acquiring the business outright.
For customer feedback go to:
www.tripadvisor.com – Rafting New Zealand Turangi or
www.rankers.co.nz – Rafting New Zealand.
We love showing off our backyard to visitors from all over the world. We’re passionate about preserving and educating people about our Tongariro River environment and its inhabitants.
Take part in any of our adventures and you’re likely to spot a Whio, our highly endangered native Blue Duck (there are less than 3000 left in the world – even more rare than Kiwi!). They can only survive in the most pure, and clean New Zealand waterways like the Tongariro River.
Want to discover the most awesome ways to experience the Lake Taupo and Turangi Tongariro region while you’re here? Check out our combo section and enhance your visit!
OUR ENVIRONMENT!
Here at Rafting New Zealand we are proud environmentalists and often awake saying, “another day in paradise”.
We are lucky enough to have our ‘’office’’ as some of New Zealand’s most beautiful and pristine wilderness. Our river base location, at the southern end of Great Lake Taupo (New Zealand’s biggest lake) and nestled amongst the mountains of the Tongariro National Park (Dual World Heritage Area), home of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing means we live and work in a natural playground of unsurpassed beauty.
OUR RAFTING FACILITIES!
Located at the southern end of Lake Taupo in the village of Turangi (Tongariro River), you get to experience a unique part of Aotearoa just by visiting us. Our current facilities are located at The Rafting Centre, 95 Atirau Road, Turangi with a friendly atmosphere and service, you are well catered for!
STAFF – GEAR – SAFETY!
Our current operator, Tongariro River Rafting are the longest serving rafting company on the Tongariro River. The staff are our biggest asset, they are highly trained Kiwi professionals and outdoor adventurers who love what they do and will keep you safe.
Our gear is updated annually and is of excellent condition.
We are audited each year and continually receive the thumbs up for safety and service – you can be completely confident when booking your rafting adventure with us.
MANAWHENUA
CONNECTION TO THE LAND AND RIVERS!
We draw power from the land and rivers we raft – power associated with local tribal land. The Tuwharetoa tribe’s history and legends are based in the lands they have occupied over generations and the land provides the sustenance for the people and to provide hospitality for guests.
The Rivers and areas we operate in are steeped with awesome culture and history.
On our adventures you will hear the stories, myths and legends that have helped shape the landscape, making them come alive.