On the Water
2 hours
Free cancellation
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Kaituna Cascades
Kaituna Cascades
5
River Rafting & TubingAdrenaline & Extreme ToursBoat ToursWater SportsEco Tours
8:15 AM - 6:00 PM
Monday
8:15 AM - 6:00 PM
Tuesday
8:15 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday
8:15 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday
8:15 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday
8:15 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday
8:15 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday
8:15 AM - 6:00 PM
Full view
About
Kaituna Cascades is the Original Rafting Company to start taking people rafting down the Kaituna River & over the 7m Tutea Falls. We are located right beside the river & have been there 30 years. The Kaituna river is now super famous for having the Worlds Highest Commercially Rafted Waterfall. Awesome scenery, warm water, 11 fun rapids and 3 waterfalls makes this a perfect river for anybody. Open all year round. Minimum age 13+ years old. Come and join our super fun team!
Rotorua, New Zealand
Awards
Travellers' Choice
2024
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Improve this listingTours and Tickets by Kaituna Cascades
On the Water
5 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 100% of travellers
100% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
$170
per adult
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
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5.0
1,793 reviews
Excellent
1,759
Very good
29
Average
2
Poor
1
Terrible
2
johanna1712
37 contributions
Jan 2023 • Couples
Thanks for the incredible experience!
We are so happy that we rafted the “Rangi” with you guys. Exactly as it says on the website the river was a class 4/5 beast and a brown rollercoaster of fun!
Personally, I was a bit scared after the safety training, but our super guide (the Kiwi among the guides) immediately encouraged me and from then on it was just so much fun.
The rapids were really fierce and it just went wild. At the same time we were in the best hands with clear instructions from the guide who maneuvered us perfectly through the river. He also ensured a great team atmosphere and celebration of our successes. In Addition, he told interesting facts about the New Zealand landscape during the relaxed sections of the ride. We even drank from a fresh spring at the edge of the river, went swimming in between and just had a really really really good time.
When you also consider the long bus ride, all the equipment and the safety kayak, it's extremely good value for money.
So everybody, book rafting with the guys at Kaituna Cascades!
We are so happy that we rafted the “Rangi” with you guys. Exactly as it says on the website the river was a class 4/5 beast and a brown rollercoaster of fun!
Personally, I was a bit scared after the safety training, but our super guide (the Kiwi among the guides) immediately encouraged me and from then on it was just so much fun.
The rapids were really fierce and it just went wild. At the same time we were in the best hands with clear instructions from the guide who maneuvered us perfectly through the river. He also ensured a great team atmosphere and celebration of our successes. In Addition, he told interesting facts about the New Zealand landscape during the relaxed sections of the ride. We even drank from a fresh spring at the edge of the river, went swimming in between and just had a really really really good time.
When you also consider the long bus ride, all the equipment and the safety kayak, it's extremely good value for money.
So everybody, book rafting with the guys at Kaituna Cascades!
Written 1 February 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
What a sweeeet review thanks !! We love the rivers and stoked you had a blast on the Rangi - it is a treat when it's this high and a brown rollercoaster of goodness :)
Cheers from the Cascades crew !
Written 5 February 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
ajhinch
Hong Kong, China30 contributions
Amazing experience. We were pretty nervous since we were complete beginners and also the weather was really cold (came in winter June 2022). They provided wetsuits and other gear which kept us warmer than on land! Really was a once in a lifetime experience and would do it again if we had more time. Pete was a fantastic guide - so professional, knowledgeable, fun and kept us feeling confident and safe.
Written 15 June 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Epic review !!
It was great to show you down our beautiful river and stoked you had a great time even in the winter :)
Cheers again - Pete
Written 7 July 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Chris C
Seattle, United States9 contributions
Sept 2022
We had a great time rafting with this group! Pete was our guide and he was non-stop entertainment while we were in the boat. The whole operation was really smooth, the company has everything you need to be on the river as far as clothing and will take care of all the logistics of shuttle and securing your valuables. They all seem to know what they are doing and know how to have fun on the water. Our actual trip was the shorter river right by their facility which meanders and winds down this beautiful slot canyon. The actual trip is pretty short in length (distance) which was surprising, because there are a TON of rapids and falls, but it felt just long enough. You should do it.
The photos at the end are also super good and very affordable.
The photos at the end are also super good and very affordable.
Written 27 September 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Such a cool review thanks!! We love these and it keeps us stoked for the next trip :)
I had a great time rafting down the waterfalls with you and the crew too....
See you next time for more adventures !
Pete & The Cascades crew
Written 1 October 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
19thApril
2 contributions
Apr 2023 • Friends
Wouldn’t recommend, Ollie (instructor) purposely flipped our boat on the largest waterfall and 4 of us almost died. Me personally was literally on my last breath! Hit rock bottom and was thrashed under water! By the time I came up I was under the waterfall still barely able to gasp for air. Ollie didn’t come to help any of us onto the boat instead stood there on the boat with his hands waving in the air yelling “yes I finally flipped it”. It didn’t end there he tried again. Of course I can’t take this anywhere because we had to sign a waiver….. TRAUMATISED!!!!!
Written 20 April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kia Ora & thanks for your review....
It sounds like you had a wild ride and got some of the full Grade 5 treatment at the waterfall which happens every so often (hence the grade 5 rating of the river) & can indeed be scary and feel out of control under the water. This is why we give full safety briefing's in the carpark & then again on the river before heading down..
We take full responsibility for the nature of the river and don't deny it can get rough every so often.
We do find your comments about Ollie to be inaccurate though.. after the tour I flicked through the photos of what happened & the 1st thing Ollie did was climb straight on top of the raft in order to re flip it, and point at the group of the swimmers behind the raft as you all popped up and told the safety kayaker to go rescue you while he reflipped the raft.. There are NO photos of him celebrating and most definitely did not say "I finally flipped it" or "I flipped it on purpose" (we tell guides never to do or say this due to our clients safety and liability !!) Flipping at the waterfall on purpose is something we never do.
You can check for yourselves as we sent you the photo link for free on the day as a couple of your group didn't show up..
The flip you had was a big one (what we call an "elevator" as the raft bounces up and does a front flip - and I'm sure Ollie commented afterwards as to the magnitude of the flip being a big one, after assessing everyone was ok - even if shaken but uninjured..
We're sorry to hear you think that Ollie intended this to happen but when rafting the waterfall - statistically 1/10 rafts will flip over & 1/1000 will have a big one like yours - however - it's up to the waterfall as to what happens at the bottom.
So far - 32 years on the river & no major accidents (touching wood)
Feel free to contact me directly to discuss further - I would love to know more. We tried to reach out multiply times but nobody ever replied back to us.
Cheers for your comment's :)
Pete
Written 26 May 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
CassN
Calgary, Canada16 contributions
Nov 2022 • Friends
To be completely honest, I didn’t know what I was getting into when I agreed to do the rafting with friends. So, when I arrived at Kaituna Cascades only to learn we had signed up for the Grade 5 rafting trip with a seven metre waterfall, I was nervous. (We named our little group Team Anxiety, which tells you all you need to know about us as rafters.) However, our superhero guide, Elvis, was incredible. He was very skilled, very focused on safety and did not sugar coat anything—we were going down rapids and waterfalls, there was a good chance we were going to get tossed from the boat. He wanted us to have the best experience possible and ensure we walked away smiling, with all of our teeth. All of the guides there are absolute professionals—it was impressive to watch them work to control the large rafts (and the anxious people within) and navigate the water. Don’t hesitate on the is one. Do it! You’ll be happy you did. Thanks Kaituna Cascades crew!
Written 27 November 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for such a cool review and congrats on styling the river and waterfalls. Elvis is a legend aye !
See you next time
Written 28 November 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
RenaCroms
Hamilton, New Zealand1 contribution
Feb 2021
It was an awesome experience and we had so much fun! Blue was a great guide, informing us very well on safety measures. All the Kaituna rafting crew who were with us were really good at what they do. Thank you for the great experience and for always looking after our safety.
Definitely a one of a kind and must-do adventure when you are in New Zealand!
Definitely a one of a kind and must-do adventure when you are in New Zealand!
Written 20 February 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nice one - always good times when you get to raft with the boss man :)
Cheers from the Cascades crew and Blue
Written 21 February 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Cindy D
5 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
We had the best time! Although dangerous at some times, I never felt really scared. Rob was the best guide ever! He was so friendly, funny, knowledgeable, just great fun. Thank you Rob!
If you like the rush of adrenaline, combined with a lot of laughter, I can highly recommend Kaituna Cascades!
If you like the rush of adrenaline, combined with a lot of laughter, I can highly recommend Kaituna Cascades!
Written 13 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for the Excellent review. Robs really Great & will be happy to hear the news. Cheers from the Team @ Kaituna Cascades
Written 19 January 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jonny Toronto
Belo Horizonte, Brazil4 contributions
Feb 2023 • Couples
First class event. Safe, organised and a real blast. We had to move from the Kaituna river to the Rangitaiki and had to pay more but it was well worth the extra. 11km rafting, an hour and a half n the river including a 10 minute swim to get our breath back!! exciting and suitable for all levels ( I’ve been told not to mention our lead paddler who wasn’t the most energetic !!) our host and pilot Oliver was great company and navigated us through some treacherous rapids. Can’t recommend it enough and would fly back from Wales to do it again tomorrow. The only pity is I didn’t have a go pro to capture the memories so bring one if you have it, cameras and phones are a no no
Written 21 February 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for taking the time to review us! Ollie will be stoked to hear you enjoyed your trip. Yea Go Pros are a good addition if you have one for sure. Thanks again for rafting the Rangitaiki with us, hope to see you back in the future!
Written 22 February 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
GMoney
Kamloops, Canada8 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
A big thank you to the staff at Kaituna Cascades. Especially Hamish for convincing my wife (who was having a panic attack) for continuing on this trip. He was very professional and kept our smaller groups raft upright and moving forward!!
Thanks again, Gord & Cori.
Thanks again, Gord & Cori.
Written 19 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks Gord and Cori - stoked you guys had fun and finished the trip! I'm sure you guys will have some fun stories for ever now :)
Cheers from the Cascades Crew
Written 22 February 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Lisa Cameron
4 contributions
Jan 2023 • Friends
I love thus experience so much!! so beautiful, intensely fun, an amazing rush of pure joy! Our guide Elvis was fantastic! He was professional, relaxed, fun-natured, and cool-headed. we felt safe and ready for each waterfall and rapid in our white water rafting adventure thanks to Elvis' and the team's expertise and confidence. I Find Kaituna Cascades particularly professional and safe as they have a health and safety guy in a kayak who is with us all the way, ready to jump into action to save someone who's having difficulty if need be. Sam was so fast on his kayak, working with amazing speed and efficiency when he was needed. The whole team works together with precision timing, and seem to really enjoy themselves. They are located in a scenic spot, over looking the river, where you can relax on beanbags under a gazebo if you get there early, or want to hangout and play volleyball afterwards. They have a great little set-up, with all the gear you need and nice changing rooms and toilets. Finally, the photographer takes superb photos! Thanks guys for such a wonderful experience!!!
Written 2 January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for the EPIC review. You got everything right. We are the Original rafting company on the Kaituna river & have 32 years in business making peoople happy. Cheers from the whole crew !!
Written 4 January 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
My mother is turning 66 years old - my brother and I want to do the Wairoa and Kaituna Combo. Is it safe for my mother (small woman in size but healthy) to participate in this? Or would you recommend only the Kaituna/other trips?
Written 18 December 2022
Hey - sorry for the late reply... But the combo is great for anyone fit & healthy and ready for an adventure. Your Mum sounds perfect for the trip.
Always best to watch some youtube to see what your in for first though :)
Hope to see the two of yo here soon
Written 12 February 2023
I want to do the Wairoa and Kaituna Combo tour. Initial trip was February - but we may have to post-pone until March. That is autumn season - how cold/conditions will be it like?
Written 18 December 2022
Autumn season is the best for rafting !
The weather is usually settled and the water is still warm from summer. We'll be running the combo every Sunday in March :)
See you here
Written 12 February 2023
Do you guys take photos or video of our journey? Plan on Wairoa and Kaituna Combo. If so - what price am I looking at? Thanks
Written 12 October 2022
Thanks for your question,
We take photos on the Kaitunas river as it has some veiwing platforms alongside the river where our photographer can access to get amazing photos of the rafts plunging off the waterfalls - You can buy a email link of high quality digital photos for only $40 and they are backed up for 3 years incase you loose them.
We don't normally take photos on the Wairoa though as it's logistically much harder.
Cheers and hope to see you on the river - The combo is an epic day out and is only $240 ! (The price of one river in Queenstown).
Written 8 November 2022
I want to do the Wairoa and Kaituna Combo. Planning for end of January- weather okay then? I assume its self drive - first Wairoa then Kaituna? How long spend at each river?
Written 12 October 2022
Hey Baz, Sorry for the late reply (was on Holiday). The Wairoa combo is epic one of the best days out. We can drive or you can self drive - which ever you prefer? January is generally our hottest month and best rafting but also busiest. Good to get in quick.
The total day is around 8 hours including some chill time between rivers... The Wairoa river in the morning is about 1.5/2 hours rafting and then the Kaituna in the afternoon is about 50-60 minutes rafting.
Cheers and hope to see you in January :)
Pete
Written 3 November 2022
Gengen A
Melbourne, Australia
We are campervanning, can we just show up at the location? Is there any parking?
Written 20 October 2019
We have heaps of room for camper vans :)
But you'll need to book with us first so you can reserve a seat and not miss out, we also need to get the right amount of guides and rafts ready for the epic rafting !
Looking forward to seeing ya soon
Written 20 October 2019
My mother will be 63 years old in March of 2020 - will she be able to do this activity? Is there an age limit?
Written 8 October 2019
We don't have an age limit but we do suggest that people are fit healthy and more than anything - have good flexibility to be able to get down in the raft for the waterfalls.
We have taken people in there 70's before so if ya feeling good come get it :)
Cheers - Kaituna Cascades
Written 20 October 2019
What level rapids in February or March? Also what would be the water temperatures during February or March? Thanks
Written 8 October 2019
The level of the rapids are grade 5 all year round, and the water will be around 24 degrees Celsius in February and March - it'd the best :)
Written 20 October 2019
What level rapids will you see in January/February?
Written 6 October 2019
It is considered level 6. We actually came off the raft going down the falls but were very well prepared on what to do by the staff. It was the highlight of our trip and we are not young. Highly recommend
Written 6 October 2019
Also Go pro's get broken off helmet mounts almost every time a raft flips upside down and they're expensive so chest harnesses are the way to go :)
Written 20 October 2019
Hi, may I know what are some of the examples of appropriate attire for doing Kaituna rafting in late November?
Written 10 October 2017
Yeah we have all the gear to keep you warm on the river - you can have wetsuits too if you like! Normally in November the water is around 18 degrees :) In summer even warmer - up to 24-25 !
Written 13 October 2017
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