Kia ora and welcome to Kaituna Cascades, the home of white water rafting near Tauranga! Just a short drive from the city, you’ll discover one of New Zealand’s most legendary rivers, packed with rapids, deep green canyons, and the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall.
Since 1991, we’ve been guiding locals and visitors down the Kaituna, creating epic adventures and unforgettable memories every single day. Whether you’re chasing thrills or just want to experience the Bay of Plenty in a totally unique way, rafting the Kaituna is a must-do.
✓ Closest access to the famous Tutea Falls section
✓ Friendly local guides with deep river knowledge
✓ Small-group focus for more fun and better safety oversight
✓ Simple check-in and quick shuttle to the put-in
✓ Photo and video packages to relive the drop
Absolutely. First-timers join every day. The team makes it straightforward from the start
✓ Full briefing before you hit the river.
✓ Guide-to-guest ratios matched to conditions.
✓ Practice strokes and commands on flat water first.
✓ Clear plans for high water or weather changes.
● Confident non-swimmers at guide discretion.
● Families with adventurous teens.
● Groups, work teams, and celebrations.
● If unsure about fitness or mobility, contact the team for options.
Expect fast-moving water, lush native bush, and a sequence of fun rapids that build confidence. The highlight is Tutea Falls—the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall—which delivers a clean, exciting drop when the level is right. Between rapids there are calm pools to reset and smile for the camera.
Trips run most days. Your guide sets the pace and picks the best lines for the crew. It’s high-energy but well-drilled, which is why first-timers love it.
Raft year-round with different vibes by season.
Warmer water and plenty of daylight. Popular for first-timers.
Crisp air and fewer crowds. Wetsuits and layers keep you warm
Trips may shift times or sections to keep things safe and fun. The team will confirm any changes with you
● Morning and afternoon sessions most days.
● Extra runs on weekends and holidays.
White water rafting Tauranga trips meet at the Kaituna Cascades base near the river. It’s an easy drive.
✓ Free parking on site.
✓ Check in at the desk. The crew will kit you out and handle valuables.
Professional guides, top-grade safety gear, river shuttle, full safety briefing.
Photo/video packs, merchandise at the base.
Contact the team for group rates and private rafts.
Safety sits at the centre of every trip. Guides train regularly and follow clear river protocols.
Boats and gear are checked before each run. The briefing covers commands, positions, and what to do if you fall out.
The team makes go/no-go calls based on current levels and forecast. If conditions shift, your booking will be moved to a safe time or section.
This was a great couple bonding experience that took us both to the edge of our comfort zones. Could not speak highly enough of the professionalism of the guiding team - yet making the whole experience one of such fun.
MY FAVOURITE EXPERIENCE IN NZ SO FAR. TOOK THE 9AM TOUR TODAY AND ALREADY CAN'T WAIT TO COME BACK. THE RAFTING WAS SO MUCH FUN AND THE TOUR GUIDES ARE HILARIOUS. NEVER FELT IN ANY DANGER JUST ENJOYED THE RIDE! WOULD RECOMMEND TO ANYBODY. I WENT AS A SOLO TRAVELLER AND IT WAS STILL REALLY ENJOYABLE.
Brilliant! We had heaps of fun. Guides were friendly and made us feel safe and comfortable. Highly recommended to all!
Fantastic outfit. The crew were cheeky as but super professional. We felt safe throughout the entire experience. 11/10 and a big shoutout to Rob for being a GC.
White water rafting at its best. Wonderful guides. A must do when in or around Rotorua. Felt safe, but had the best time.
Great experience! Made me feel safe when I was scared!! You the m san Owen! So glad I did it. It is beautiful!
The guide, Sam, went out of his way to make the trip as fun and exciting as possible. The whole team were friendly and inclusive.
Cole was a really good guide, talked us through everything and had a good laugh. The water was nice, not cold at all. They provide wetsuits, footwear, helmets, life jackets and polo fleeces. Worth the money and would do it again. Recommend going in a group so that you can split the cost of photos.
Unbelievable experience rafting the 7m waterfall this morning! Even more fun when the boat flipped!! Highly recommend! Great fun and great instructors!! Shout out to Pete From the Irish girls.
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