When is the best time to go white water rafting in NZ? At Kaituna Cascades, we’re well-equipped to answer this question, with years of experience in fun white water rafting across New Zealand’s waters. Our answer is simple – sort of!
The best time to go white water rafting in New Zealand is in the summer months, but the exact time depends on whether you’re rafting in the North or South Island.
If you’d like to raft in the North Island, perhaps across the beautiful Kaituna or Wairoa river, we recommend you do so between October to April. At this time, the water levels are much lower, guaranteeing more exciting rapids, taller waterfalls & calmer pools for swimming! It’s also better because the weather conditions are favourable. You’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the scenery as you raft, enjoying the hot sun and warmer waters. Winter rafting during the months of June – August, are still amazing with higher water and colder temps, all the while avoiding the summer crowds. Kaituna Cascades will give you loads of thermal gear to keep you toasty warm even in the middle of the winter!
White water rafting in the South Island is also great during the summer, but we recommend an expedition between December and February – the rivers of South Island, like Shotover and Kawaru, are fed by snowmelt from the Southern Alps. The water levels are high and fast-moving, which guarantees a fun-filled white water rafting experience on their rocky rivers.
It’s important to check with local rafting operators, like the team members at Kaituna Cascades, for more specific recommendations on the best times to go white water rafting in your area.
These times could fluctuate based on weather conditions, water levels, and your skill level in particular. As white water rivers are graded in increasing intensity, it’s important to never traverse a river that you’re not prepared for.
There’s no shame in asking for advice from an expert! At Kaituna Cascades, we also provide the protective gear you need to enjoy white water rafting in the summer. You can trust in our experts to keep you safe.
Ready to embark on your white water rafting journey? Contact Kaituna Cascades for more information, today. We provide exciting and picturesque white water rafting expeditions across our home in Rotorua.
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.
© 2025 | Kaituna Cascades | All Rights reserved | Designed by 
