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Experience New Zealand's ultimate rafting challenge with the Kaituna & Wairoa Combo. Tackle grade 5 rapids by morning, then raft the world’s tallest commercial waterfall in the afternoon amid stunning volcanic landscapes.
Experience New Zealand's ultimate rafting challenge with the Kaituna & Wairoa Combo. Tackle grade 5 rapids by morning, then raft the world’s tallest commercial waterfall in the afternoon amid stunning volcanic landscapes.
Book with Kaituna Cascades Rafting
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Operated by Kaituna Cascades Rafting · Okere Falls, Bay of Plenty
Located in the rugged heart of New Zealand’s Bay of Plenty region, the Kaituna & Wairoa Combo rafting adventure offers thrill-seekers an unmatched day paddling two of the country's most adrenaline-pumping rivers. Situated near Okere Falls, this expedition tests your skills and stamina on the grade 5 Wairoa River before leading you to the warm, exhilarating waters of the Kaituna River — home to the world’s tallest commercially rafted waterfall.
Your day unfolds in two distinct chapters: it begins with the Wairoa River’s demanding boulder gardens and cascading waterfalls. Considered among the wildest rapids in New Zealand, the Wairoa’s steep drops, churning hydraulics, and unpredictable currents challenge even experienced rafters. Navigating this Grade 5 river requires focus and teamwork, amplifying the electric excitement as you paddle fiercely through nature’s course carved by volcanic rocks.
After this intense morning session, enjoy a well-earned lunch break to recharge. Then dive into the glowing waters of the Kaituna River, known for its serene ambiance and geothermal warmth. Here, the highlight awaits — the stunning Tutea Falls, which at 7 meters is the tallest waterfall commercially rafted worldwide. Rafting face-first over this waterfall delivers a pulse-quickening plunge amidst lush native forest and dramatic basalt cliffs.
This full-day journey is expertly led by seasoned guides who provide top-quality gear, including custom rafts, wetsuits, helmets, lifejackets, and splash jackets for safety and comfort. The trip departs daily from Rotorua, with convenient transport included, making access seamless. Note that this incredible experience is seasonal, with the Wairoa River opening flow on select summer Sundays only.
Beyond the rush, the Kaituna & Wairoa rivers are integral to the local ecosystem and Maori heritage, threading together cultural respect and environmental stewardship. The surrounding region boasts abundant native birdlife and unique flora thriving in the volcanic valley's dynamic conditions.
For adventurers staying in Rotorua or Tauranga, this rafting combo ranks as a must-do. It combines raw white-water power and scenic beauty with the cultural richness of New Zealand’s North Island.
Whether you’re after an extreme paddling challenge or an unforgettable plunge beneath cascading waterfalls, this rafting saga delivers pulse-pounding action paired with breathtaking landscape immersion. Prepare to test your limits where wild rivers meet ancient volcanic terrain.
Participants must be at least 13 years old.
No prior experience is needed, but basic swimming ability is required.
Yes, all wetsuits, helmets, life jackets, and other safety gear are supplied by the outfitters.
This trip is not suitable for non-swimmers due to the river difficulty level.
No, pregnant women are not permitted for safety reasons.
It is a challenging full-day trip requiring good fitness to paddle through grade 5 rapids.
Kaituna Cascades Rafting operates in Okere Falls in New Zealand’s Bay of Plenty, offering guided white water rafting and multi-activity trips on the region’s iconic rivers. The company runs multiple experiences: Kaituna River Rafting, Wairoa River Rafting, a Kaituna & Wairoa Combo, and a Mud Baths & Rafting Combo. The Kaituna River Rafting trip features 14 exhilarating drops, including the spectacular 7‑metre Tutea Falls, the highest commercially rafted waterfall, with expert guides leading a 50‑minute descent through a jungle canyon suitable for adrenaline seekers and first‑time rafters. The Wairoa River Rafting experience tackles Grade 5 white water, challenging rafters with intense rapids and named features such as 'Mothers Nightmare' and the dramatic 'Waterfall' drop through narrow rock canyons. The Kaituna & Wairoa Combo pairs a morning on the Wairoa with a relaxing lunch and a descent of the Kaituna, combining high‑adrenaline rapids with the iconic waterfall run. The Mud Baths & Rafting Combo adds a local hot spring element to a rafting day. Guides on each trip provide safety briefings, steer rafts, and manage equipment to industry standards. Operations are centered at Okere Falls, giving direct river access in the Bay of Plenty. Trip durations, difficulty levels, and route highlights are clearly described for each offering to help guests choose the right experience. Kaituna Cascades Rafting emphasizes experienced guide support, proven river routes, and distinctive local attractions to deliver memorable and well-managed rafting adventures. Booking information, safety gear details, and meeting points are provided at time of reservation. online support
Book with Kaituna Cascades Rafting