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Highlights

  • Take on the Kawarau River with a mix of jet boating and whitewater rafting, ideal for both thrill-seekers and first-time rafters.
  • Race down the river at speeds up to 95 km/h, skimming past canyon walls and spinning through 360° turns.
  • Paddle through 8 km of whitewater, with grade 2–3 rapids (and grade 4 in high water), plus the chance to try a cliff jump.
  • Navigate the 400m Dog Leg rapid, the longest commercially rafted rapid in New Zealand, before drifting through scenic landscapes seen in movies.
  • Fun fact: Kawarau Bridge is nearby, the site of the world’s first commercial bungee jump in 1988.

Your Experience

Kawarau River White Water Rafting and Jet Boat Ride by RealNZ Image 1
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Kick off your adventure with a jet boat ride to the Kawarau River, then tackle beginner-friendly white water rafting.

Getting started

Arrive at the designated meeting point, where staff will check your booking and provide a quick safety briefing. Board the jet boat for a high-speed journey to the river launch site, setting the tone for your day on the water.

What to expect

The Kawarau River is renowned for its accessible rapids and picturesque surroundings, making it a top choice for first-time rafters and those seeking a lively introduction to white water adventures.

Features

  • Jet boat transfer: Begin with a fast-paced jet boat ride, offering an exciting approach to the rafting launch and a unique perspective of the river.

  • Beginner-friendly rapids: Navigate stretches of the Kawarau River known for their manageable yet exciting white water, ideal for newcomers.

  • Scenic river views: Enjoy the natural beauty of the river valley, with clear water and rugged landscapes.

Inclusions

  • 1-hour rafting on the Kawarau River
  • Professional rafting guides
  • 25-minute jet boat ride
  • Round-trip bus transfer between Queenstown and the rafting base
  • All rafting and safety equipment, including wetsuit and helmet
  • Use of hot showers

This product offers multiple ticket options. Some items above (like transfers or fast-track access) may only apply to specific options — confirm what's included when you select yours.

Ticket Delivery

  • Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.

  • Please arrive at the boarding point 15 mins before the scheduled time of your boat to avoid any delays.

  • Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the boarding point.

Boarding point

  • Board your boat at RealNZ - Queenstown Visitor Centre.

  • Address: RealNZ Visitor Centre 88 Beach Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand.

Get directions to the boarding point

Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

Frequently asked questions

Clear answers to the most common questions travelers ask before booking this experience.

Booking FAQs

Bring your ticket or voucher for entry. Wear comfortable clothing suitable for water activities and bring a change of clothes. Bring a towel, swimsuit, and sunscreen for your comfort and protection. Secure footwear that can get wet is recommended.

Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not permitted. Drones are not allowed on the premises. Outside food or beverages are prohibited. Alcohol, drugs, and any form of intoxication are strictly prohibited during the experience. Safety is a priority so this experience is restricted for guests under the weight of 40kg (88.18lb), over the weight of 120kg (264.55lb) and under the age of 13 years. Keep in mind, cameras are not allowed on this experience.

This experience is not wheelchair accessible. Pregnant people and guests with back issues, cardiac issues, and other serious medical conditions cannot participate in the experience.

All participants must sign a waiver form. Guests under 16 years old must have a guardian traveling with them, and all guests under 18 years old must have a waiver form signed by a guardian. Guests must be water-confident, able to swim in fast-moving water, and agree to carefully follow instructions from the guides. Guests should have a moderate physical fitness level. The operator reserves the right to refuse participation and cancel or amend any trips due to river, road, or weather conditions or insufficient numbers in the interest of all guests’ safety.

Security checks are mandatory for all participants, ensuring everyone's safety during the adventure.

Yes, you'll navigate through scenic landscapes and tackle the longest commercially rafted rapid in New Zealand—the 400m Dog Leg on Kawarau River. Plus, nearby is Kawarau Bridge, site of the world’s first commercial bungee jump.

Bring your ticket or voucher for entry, comfortable clothing suitable for water activities with a change of clothes, towel, swimsuit, sunscreen, and secure footwear that can get wet. Avoid bringing large bags, suitcases, drones, outside food or beverages.

Wear comfortable clothing suitable for water activities along with a change of clothes after the rafting experience. Secure footwear is recommended as it may get wet.

Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not permitted to ensure safety and convenience during the activity.

Your booking includes a 1-hour rafting on Kawarau River with professional guides, a 25-minute jet boat ride, round-trip bus transfer between Queenstown and the base, all necessary safety equipment including wetsuit and helmet, as well as access to hot showers.

Personal expenses are not covered by this booking. Ensure you have everything needed for your comfort during the adventure.

It's important to arrive on time as specified in your booking details, but should delays occur, contact the activity provider directly upon arrival for assistance.

Yes, bring your ticket or voucher along with an acceptable form of identification to ensure smooth entry into the experience.

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