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Queenstown Kawarau River Whitewater Rafting

Offered by RealNZ

From

$239.00 per person

4.9 (70 reviews)

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Booking handled by our partner, Viator

4 hours 30 minutes (approx.) Mobile or paper ticket accepted Offered in: English

Half-day whitewater rafting on the Kawarau River from Queenstown, with an 8km grade 2-3 run, safety briefing, gear, and the Dog Leg rapid.

Tour Overview

Meet the team at the RealNZ Visitor Centre, 88 Beach Street, Queenstown, then take the courtesy coach to the raft base to get fitted with the gear included in your trip. Once you are ready, your raft guides will take you to the river start point for a full safety briefing before heading onto the Kawarau River.

This half day trip is designed as an introduction to whitewater rafting, with an 8 kilometre run that mixes grade 2 to 3 rapids with calmer sections of river. At higher water levels, there may also be occasional grade 2 to 4 rapids. Between the faster water, there is time to sit back and take in the scenery, race friends on other rafts, or jump in for a swim.

The trip finishes with the Dog Leg, a 400 metre rapid described as the longest commercially rafted rapid in New Zealand, graded 3 to 4. If you want an extra challenge, you can join the optional rock or cliff jumping section, or stay in the raft and watch.

The Kawarau River is also known to many film fans as the River Anduin in Lord of the Rings. For safety, participants must weigh at least 40 kg and no more than 120 kg.

What's Included

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

Not Included:

  • Food and drinks

What To Expect

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.

Meeting and Pickup

Meeting point

RealNZ Queenstown Visitor Centre

RealNZ Visitor Centre 88 Beach Street, CBD, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

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

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Important Information

The restrictions for rafting are: -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.

Additional Info

  • 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

Cancellation Policy

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