Queenstown Kawarau River White Water Rafting

Experience the adrenaline-charged thrill of white-water rafting on Queenstown’s Kawarau River! As you paddle through the stunning scenery, you'll feel like you are rafting through the heart of Middle-earth, as it was the Kawarau River that starred as the River Anduin in 'The Lord of the Rings' movie trilogy. This grade II to III rafting trip is suitable for all fitness levels, and no experience is necessary.

From central Queenstown, travel approximately 25 minutes by road to the rafting start point on the Kawarau River. After you are fitted with a wetsuit and lifejacket, receive some training and a full safety briefing from your expert guide. Then it's time to hit the river!

From the moment you push off from the riverbank, begin experiencing the endless excitement of the Kawarau River. Hold on tight and enjoy the rush of adrenaline as your raft twists and turns through the rushing grade II and III rapids.

Your guide will help you paddle along the river and show you the best way to navigate the rapids. Between the thrills, don't forget to look around as you travel through some of New Zealand’s most spectacular alpine scenery. If you're a Lord of the Rings fan, you may recognize some of your surrounds from the movie trilogy.

At the end of your rafting adventure, warm up with a sauna and hot shower at the rafting base, and perhaps reward your new or improved rafting skills with a well-earned hot chocolate, beer or snack (available for purchase from the licensed bar).

• Hotel pickup (morning tour only)
• Use of hot showers and sauna facilities
• Wetsuit, rafting clothing and all other equipment provided
• Extensive safety instructions and paddling techniques

• Hotel pickup for afternoon departures
• Hotel drop-off
• Food and drinks