Kawarau River Rafting: Scenic Whitewater Adventure

Experience thrilling rapids and stunning scenery on Queenstown’s Kawarau River. Perfect for first-timers, this adventure promises excitement and unforgettable memories.

Duration: 4 hours, 30 minutes
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Kawarau River - Start your adventure by meeting the team at the RealNZ Visitor Centre, located at 88 Beach Street, Queenstown! A courtesy coach will transport you to the rafting base, where you will receive all the gear included in the package. Once fully equipped and prepared, the raft guides will lead you to the start of the rapids for a…
What's Included
  • Coach transport to and from Raft Base
  • Wetsuit, rafting clothing and all other equipment provided
  • Extensive safety instructions and paddling techniques
  • Use of hot showers
What's Not Included
  • Snacks
Additional Information

Experience the thrill of rafting on the Kawarau River, famously known as the River Anduin from Lord of the Rings, for an exciting half-day adventure in Queenstown. This activity is ideal for beginners looking to try whitewater rafting. Enjoy the thrill of numerous rapids while also taking in the breathtaking scenery. A complimentary shuttle will…

Location
RealNZ - Queenstown Visitor Centre
Beach Street
Check-in is required at least 20 minute prior to your departure time. Please verify your email address when checking in, so we can send your complimentary digital photos to post experience!
Cancellation Policy

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

Customer Ratings
4.9
(33 Ratings)
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U2921ifdavek
Apr 24, 2025
Absolutely awesome day! - Zane was the GOAT of all guides and made the day an absolute cracker. There was something for everyone in my family from the thrill seeking kids to the nature loving wife. I would recommend this to everyone! Thanks for a terrific day Zane and the rest of the Real NZ crew.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Juligyorbol
Apr 24, 2025
Unforgettable First Rafting Experience – 5 Stars All the Way! - This was our first time white water rafting, and it was a great experience. Everything was well organised, Mark and the team made sure we felt safe and comfortable throughout. From cliff jumping to swimming in the refreshing water, riding the rapids was fun and an unforgettable adventure. The autumn colours along the Kawarau River were stunning and made the whole experience even more memorable. Highly recommended for first-timers!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Eeshaj2025
Apr 22, 2025
Exceptional Adventure - It was an incredible experience, and the rafting guides were so friendly—it made the whole adventure even more enjoyable.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Tejinderg2022
Apr 7, 2025
Thrills and spills on the Kawarau - Had the most amazing experience on the Kawarau River. Perfect day, awesome scenery, just enough thrills to not be too overwhelming. The guides were all fabulous and did their utmost to ensure we had a fantastic experience. Loved every minute :)
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Bob
Apr 2, 2025
A must do! - Absolutely brilliant experience. Scenery is stunning and staff are very competent and great fun. Thoroughly recommended.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Bec_s
Apr 1, 2025
Great tour!! - The guides were fun and we had the extra privilege of having 3 Polytech students on the trip too! Great work looking after the guests AND THE students! The students were fantastic too! Thanks to all!! Well done.
Review provided by Viator
L710loangelab
Mar 9, 2025
Exciting and so much fun - This was a fantastic rafting trip. The rapids were alot of fun, of course. The last one (dog bend, I think) was particularly exciting. And there was more we didn't even expect - jumping into the river from the cliff (low and high depending on your level of fear) and swimming in the river. It was awsome and the river was beautiful. I would definitely do this again and highly recommend it.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Katemq5246px
Mar 5, 2025
Brilliant trip for old farts! We’ll be back! - This trip was fantastic! I’m 60 and my partner is 63. This was our first time to white water raft so I was a bit nervous after I read the risk information! The guides really looked after us and really know their stuff. I felt like I was in great hands. Aside from the guide in your raft there are also kayakers that come along that can help you if you need it. The scenery was absolutely beautiful and the river so turquoise! There was plenty of opportunity to just float along and relax but there was also the exhilaration of the rapids. Not scary but so much fun! Free photos are emailed to you after the trip……and they are great. Such a good job at capturing everyone. We will be back for sure! Thank you to all staff for such a brilliant experience.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Heikew795
Mar 5, 2025
Insanely beautiful and exciting tour - Great trip wonderful whitewater and swim in the river. Nice guides and I always felt safe and good. Transport with interesting information about the area!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Leahau920pf
Feb 26, 2025
Rafting and tranquility all in one. - Amazing rafting trip. Spent a lot of time swimming...or shall I say floating in the river. Amazing tranquility cheaper than therapy...lol. guide was very hospitable and knowledgeable on the river. Great crew from booking at the site to the very end.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
From $143
up to 10 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).