Kawarau River

The Kawarau river is ideal for first time rafters or suited to those looking for a more relaxed rafting experience. There’s plenty of white water action, but also time to sit back, relax and enjoy the spectacular New Zealand scenery. Keep an eye on the other rafts though, as there’s a good chance of a water fight.

It’s the Kawarau River that starred as the River Anduin in Lord of the Rings. The grandeur of the canyons imparts a feeling of paddling through the heart of Middle Earth. Whether you are a Lord of The Rings fan or not, this rafting trip offers an insight into the beauty of the New Zealand wilderness.

Enjoy the unforgettable 400m long Dog Leg rapid. New Zealand’s longest commercially rafted rapid.

Trip Information

TRIP PRICES RIVER GRADE
  • NZD$175.00 per person
  • Grade 2-3
TRIP PACKAGE INCLUDES
  • Transfer from Queenstown downtown to rafting base
  • Full wetsuit rafting clothing and safety equipment
  • Transfer to Gibbston Valley via Arrowtown
  • Extensive safety briefing
  • Rafting on the Kawarau River
  • Hot showers and sauna
  • Transfer/ return travel to Queenstown downtown
TIMETABLE TRIP DURATION
  • Summer: 8.15am and 1.15pm
  • Winter: 8.15am and 1.00pm
  • ½ day approximately 4.5 hours
DEPARTURE POINT
  • Queenstown Rafting Shop, 35 Shotover Street, Queenstown
WHAT YOU'LL NEED MINIMUM AGE
  • Swimsuit and towel
  • Money for snacks and photos
  • Min age 13 years
  • Min weight 40 kg (88lb)
  • Under 18s - Guardian conditions apply 
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
  • 'No shows' or cancellations within 24 hours of departure are non-refundable
  • Rafting trips require a minimum number of 8 clients to confirm
  • Clients should be water confident
  • Closed Christmas Day only

Kawarau River RaftingVIEW GALLERY OF THIS TRIP »

Kawarau River MapVIEW MAP OF THIS TRIP »

Rafters Comments

Amazing!

I took 3 friends that were over from t...
Hamish Egen, NZ

Fantastic experience

Fantastic experience for an old woman li...
Olivia Bravo, UK

KC is a legend

If you had KC you had a safe trip. He is...
Pepi Fish, AUSTRALIA

Great fun

Greta fun! Adam was a fantastic instruct...
Susanna, AUSTRALIA

Awesome

Awesome...need we say any more!...
Samson family, UK