Tongariro Upper Gorge
A section of river that only exists three days a year. Steeper, tighter, and built for rafters who’ve already done Grade 3.
The rarest rapids on the Tongariro.
Most of this stretch of river runs dry — diverted underground by the hydro dam that lets us raft the Tongariro year-round. But three times a year, the power company releases the water back into its natural channel, and for one day, this section floods into rare Grade 3+ whitewater.
It’s steeper and more technical than our standard Grade 3 trip, through the same native forest and volcanic cliffs, but with a wilder, more untouched feel — this is what the river looks like when it’s allowed to run free.
Because it only exists on release days, spots are limited and departures run at set times: 9am and 12pm, with the earlier slot filling first. Our professional guides keep things safe on what is genuinely one of the most natural, dam-timed river environments in the country.
2026 Release Dates
9am & 12pm
9am & 12pm
9am & 12pm
9am departure fills first.
Worth knowing before you book: this trip demands active participation — you’ll need to follow paddle commands and safety instructions throughout. If you or anyone in your group has questions about fitness or suitability, get in touch and we’ll help you figure out if this is the right trip.
Bring: togs and a towel. If anyone in your group carries emergency medication (asthma, allergy, heart conditions, or similar), please bring it and let your group leader know.
This Trip Includes
- Polar fleece jersey
- Splash jacket
- Helmet
- Wetsuit
- Wetsuit boots
- Life jacket
Per Person
Ages 14+
Straight Off The Guides' Cameras
A taste of what’s waiting on the Tongariro. Digital photos and video from your own trip are available to purchase after you raft.
Frequently Asked Questions
The quick answers. Call us on 0800 865 226 if yours isn’t here.
The Tongariro is normally dam-controlled, with part of the river diverted underground so rafting can run year-round. On release days, the dam lets water flow back into this section naturally, creating rare Grade 3+ rapids.
1 February, 26 April, and 20 September 2026, with departures at 9am and 12pm (9am fills first).
14+, at a single per-person rate.
Togs and a towel. Bring any emergency medication you may need and let your group leader know.
Polar fleece jersey, splash jacket, helmet, wetsuit, wetsuit boots, and life jacket.
Given the fixed, limited-availability dates, we recommend enquiring directly so we can confirm a spot for your preferred time.