White water rafting in Rotorua is an incredible and exciting sport, however, it can also be dangerous if you are not familiar with rafting or safety techniques.
For the best white water rafting in New Zealand, Kaituna Cascades has got you covered. In fact, we have compiled a list of the essential tips for white water rafting to ensure that you stay safe on the rapids.
Let’s explore them below!
1. Wear Safety Equipment
From life jackets to helmets, it is important that you wear rafting safety equipment—and make sure that they are secured correctly. The life jacket should fit snug on your body, allowing you to breathe, but still tight enough that it cannot be pulled over your head. This is crucial in the instance that you fall off the boat. Kaituna Cascades will provide you with all this gear.
2. Know How to Hold the Paddle
Navigating your way around the river requires skill and technique, and one aspect to consider when rafting is knowing how to hold the paddle properly. One hand should be on the base of the paddle shaft, while the other is over the ‘T’ grip of the paddle. Ensuring that your hand is always on the T grip can prevent accidental injuries, particularly as this part of the paddle is hard and can land painful blows.
3. Be Prepared to Swim
Whether you fall out or jump in, it is essential that you know how to swim—and what the key swimming techniques are for swimming in rafting rivers. We recommend knowing the down river swimmer’s position, also known as the white water position, with your butt high, on your back, head up, knees slightly bent, and feet pointing downstream. Remember to avoid standing in a river with a current and always swim all the way to the shore. All this will be discussed to you during the safety briefings at Kaituna Cascades.
Interested in white water rafting in Rotorua? If so, then Kaituna Cascades offers a selection of white water rafting packages for you to experience. From white water rafting on the Kaituna River to the Wairoa River, we offer Grade 4 and Grade 5 rafting experiences that promise thrill and exhilaration. Contact us today to learn more about our packages.
