Kawarau River Rafting

Thrilling rapids, stunning canyons, and crystal-clear glacial waters await on the Kawarau River, one of New Zealand's premier rafting destinations. Just a short drive from Arrowtown and Queenstown, this river offers an unforgettable whitewater adventure through the heart of Otago's rugged landscape. Whether you're a first-time rafter or a seasoned paddler, the Kawarau delivers heart-pumping excitement and jaw-dropping scenery.

Highlights & What to See

• Grade 3-4 rapids – Navigate a series of exhilarating rapids like 'Dogleg' and 'Chinese Dogleg', set against a backdrop of steep schist cliffs and vineyards.
• Kawarau Gorge – Paddle through dramatic rock formations and past historic gold-mining relics, a living museum of the Otago gold rush.
• Bungy Jumping – Spot the Kawarau Bridge Bungy, the world's first commercial bungy jump site, perched 43 metres above the river.
• Wildlife spotting – Keep an eye out for black-backed gulls, paradise shelducks, and maybe even the rare black-fronted tern.
• Gibbstown Valley – Combine your rafting trip with a wine tasting at nearby Gibbston Valley wineries, famous for pinot noir.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most rafting trips on the Kawarau River last about 3 to 4 hours on the water, including safety briefings and gear fitting. Plan for a half-day adventure (around 5 hours total from meeting point to drop-off). If you're keen to linger, combine it with a winery visit or a walk in the Arrowtown Chinese settlement for a full day out. Early morning trips offer calmer winds and fewer crowds.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Arrowtown – Explore this historic gold-mining town with its charming main street, Chinese heritage precinct, and boutique shops, just 15 minutes away.
• Queenstown – The adventure capital of New Zealand, offering bungy, skydiving, jet boating, and a vibrant dining scene, 30 minutes from the river.
• Gibbston Valley – A wine lover's paradise with cellar doors and vineyards set among the rocky slopes, only 10 minutes from the rafting base.
• Lake Hayes – A serene lake perfect for a picnic or a gentle cycle ride, located between Arrowtown and Queenstown.
• Coronet Peak – In winter, hit the slopes for skiing or snowboarding, with panoramic views over the Wakatipu Basin.

Please check official sources for current details.