Queenstown Shotover River White Water Rafting

This Queenstown whitewater rafting trip begins with a short transfer to the Rafting Base, where you are fitted with a wetsuit, rafting clothing and safety gear. From there, the journey continues with a 40 minute drive along Skippers Canyon Road, a historic route known for its dramatic scenery and its reputation as one of New Zealand’s most dangerous roads.

At Deep Creek, you launch onto the upper section of the Shotover River. This first stretch gives you time to get used to the raft and practise paddling techniques with your guide before the pace changes in the lower canyon. Here, the river runs through a series of named rapids, including After Shock, Jaws, Toilet and Sequel, each building the intensity of the run.

One of the defining moments of the trip is the 170 metre Oxenbridge Tunnel, where the raft drops into darkness before emerging straight into Cascade Rapid. After the river section, there is a short walk back to the Rafting Base, where hot showers are available before the return transfer to Queenstown.

For safety, participants must weigh at least 40 kg and no more than 120 kg.