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White-water rafting in New Zealand

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Country/City: Queenstown, New Zealand
Name: Challenge Rafting
Address: Queenstown Information Centre, Corner Shotover and Camp Streets, PO Box 814 Queenstown
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Why not try whitewater rafting for the ultimate adventure in Queenstown? Challenge Rafting operates a variety of exciting half day trips on the Shotover and Kawarau Rivers.

- The Kawarau River provides an exhilarating trip for first time rafters.
- The Shotover River provides the action for those looking for extra excitement and thrills.

Why not add to the thrill by trying out one of our Combos, combining the excitement of white water rafting with jetboating, helicopter rides and even bungy jumping. 
 

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Country/City: Taupo, NZ
Name: Kiwi River Safaris
Address: P O Box 434, Taupo, New Zealand
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Kiwi River Safaris is based in Taupo, New Zealand and offer: whitewater rafting, scenic rafting and kayaking trips.

KRS is dedicated to showing you an excellent day on the river. We do this by having helpful, friendly staff and providing top quality equipment and clean comfortable vehicles. On the river we take the time to surf the rapids, swim in the calm pools and play in the favorite spots.

KRS rafting and kayaking guides are true boaters, not weekend warriors or students of rafting. They work both domestically and internationally on some of the world's most technically demanding rivers. Our guides are fully trained whitewater professionals, surpassing the Maritime Safety Standards, and they are passionate about rafting and rivers.

KRS is a small owner operated business. It is not hampered by high overheads, enabling it to provide the best experience at the best price.

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Country/City: Queenstown, New Zealand
Name: Queenstown Rafting
Address: 35 Shotover Street Queenstown, New Zealand
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A licenced operator, Queenstown Rafting is recognised as a leader in the field of river safety and proactive risk management.  We actively contribute to the development of New Zealand rafting standards. Our guides are fully licenced and are carefully chosen on the basis of their skill and experience, their ability to make sound decisions and their ability to communicate and identify with our clients. 

THE PACKAGES

We offer the following trips:

Kawarau River Rafting
The largest volume river rafted commercially in New Zealand, ideal for first-timers.
 
Shotover River Rafting
Experience the exhilarating rapids of this infamous river.
 
Shotover River Heli Rafting
The only way to experience Shotover River rafting winter & summer!
 
Landsborough Wilderness Rafting
Raft one of New Zealand's most  untouched valleys

Triple Challenge Combination Trip
Jetboat, Heli and Raft the Shotover River
 
Nevis Triple Challenge Combination Trip
Jetboat, Heli, AJ Hackett Nevis Highwire Bungy and Raft the Shotover River
 
Twin Challenge Combination Trip
Shotover Rafting and Jetboat
 
GUIDE TRAINING
Queenstown Rafting, in conjunction with Otago Polytechnic, offer a guide training course annually.

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Country/City: Taupo, NZ
Name: Rapid Sensations Rafting
Address: P.O. Box 1725, Taupo, New Zealand
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White Water Rafting adventures include a selection of the best ½ and full days trips in the country.  From the excitement of the 50+ rapids on the Upper Tongariro River to the white-knuckled thrills of the Grade 4-5 Mohaka Gorge our rafting adventures are the ultimate white water experience.  Family Fun adventures and Combo options mean that everyone has an opportunity to enjoy a rapid sensation and more...

THE PACKAGES:

Tongariro rafting trip
This is one of New Zealand’s best rafting adventures. With more than 50 boulder-strewn, fun filled rapids, a backdrop of native beech forest and towering volcanic cliffs, you’ll be talking about this trip for a long time.  As you drift between rapids you may glimpse the rare, native blue duck 'Whio' and rainbow trout in the deep clear pools. 

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Mohaka Gorge, Grade 4-5 
This is the most 'sensational' grade 4-5 trip in the North Island.  An action packed full day adventure in an isolated gorge with limestone cliffs and huge boulders. Good teamwork is essential - the river is powerful and the rapids change frequently due to the softer rock. We stop frequently to scout difficult rapids - guaranteed to get the heart pumping.  

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Combo options - raft, bike and walk

Combine rafting with a selection of scenic walks, caving or mountain biking.  Possible combos include ½ day walk/raft or mountain bike/raft scenic trips or for the more adventurous leave the beaten track and explore caves, or single track mountain biking.  Adventure combos cater for all ages and groups. 

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Taupo Kayak School

White water introduction
Learn the basics of paddling white water.  This is a fun course for novices over 2 days.  Start day one with a heated pool session where you will learn basic water confidence skills along with an introduction to the Eskimo Roll.  The afternoon takes you through basic flat-water paddle strokes and a river trip taking time out to enjoy the natural thermal pools.  Day two will see you progressing your flat-water paddle skills onto moving water.  Round off the second day with some basic rescue skills and a chance to play on some easy rapids at Reid’s Farm.  

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White water intermediate
This is a follow on from the Intro Course.  Once again set over 2 days you will have the opportunity to fine tune your moving water paddle skills, tidy up your Eskimo Roll and make a couple of runs on a grade 2 river.  Starting day one at Reid’s Farm with a tune up session on your roll and basic moving water paddle strokes.  Day two sees you heading off to the Mohaka River for a couple of runs on a moderate grade 2 section.  Here you a shown the basics of river reading and running along with some time out for a look at surfing and other basic 'play boat' moves. 

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White water advanced
Tune up your paddle skills to enable you to paddle Grade 3 water efficiently, and have fun doing it.  This is a 4-day course, with 3 days in Taupo and 1 full day on either the Mohaka or Rangitaiki Rivers.  Video analysis on day one will give you and your instructor a clear picture of your basic flat and moving water paddle skills.  Improve your Eskimo Roll and or learn a new one.  River running skills, Hole Riding and Surfing, tidy up your techniques and or learn new skills.  Using Slalom Gates you will be taught how to improve timing and accuracy.  Trip Leadership and Defensive Paddling cover off an intensive and fun filled 3 days before putting it all into practice on a full day grade 3+ river run.   
River safety

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River safety
The 2-day River Safety course is designed to introduce you the skills necessary to assist someone while you are still in your boat.  Along with some basic rope skills this course is all about being safe on the river.   

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River rescue
The River Rescue course is designed for those people who are leading kayaking trips and or those who would like to paddle more adventurous rivers.  Over 2 days this NZRCA approved course covers knots, pulley systems, Z-drags, improvised harnesses, improvised abseiling on river rescue gear, pre-protection of rapids, rescues from holes with boat and throwbags, vertical pins and vertical hoists.  A must for all kayakers, come and learn from the only North Island NZRCA approved River Rescue Instructor.   

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Instructor training
This course is designed to introduce you to or further develop your instruction technique.  Come and learn from one of New Zealand’s most current Instructors and NZOIA Assessors. Over 2 days this course focuses on Instructional skill, Personal skills (including video analysis of flat and moving water skills), Rescue and Group Management skills.  If you are leading kayaking trips, teaching novice paddlers or looking for the best instruction techniques this is a course not to be missed.  

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Guided river trips
Kayak some of New Zealand’s best scenic and spectacular white water.  Take advantage of our experienced kayak guides and venture onto those rivers you’ve heard so much about.  Programmed guided trip details are available here, or alternatively you may accompany any one of our daily raft trips providing you can demonstrate the desired level of competency prior to departure.  Club and group trips can also be arranged including overnight adventures.

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Grade 2 Multisport Course
If you’re thinking about, entering or already competing in Multisport events this course is the ideal format to learn / train in your Multisport kayak.  Book with us and enjoy 3 days of multisport kayak instruction at our new river side base.  We have introduced this new 3 day course to allow more time on the river to practice the skills taught on day one, including fit out time and materials for your own multisport boat.  Day one is based in Taupo learning or refreshing your basic white water skills.  Days two and three are based at the Mohaka river and will include no less than 6 runs on the river, at least 60km of grade 2 paddling!!  All food and accommodation is included. Separate assessments and one on one tuition is also available on request.

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Rapid Sensations Mountain Biking

Rapid sensations do a range of mountain biking tours in the Taupo region, New Zealand.

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Country/City: Rotorua, NZ
Name: River Rats Rafting
Address: P O Box 7028, Te Ngae, Rotorua, New Zealand
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Tel: +64 7 345 6543

Mission
Our mission is to provide our clients with a thoroughly professional and friendly service while enhancing the wealth of experience of clients and staff alike. By taking the utmost pride in everything we do we will ensure that River Rats becomes acknowledged as the premier provider of quality recreational and tourism products which are in keeping with the continued well being of our natural environment.

Safety
River Rats has been operating for over 20 years and is a safety conscious company. We ensure that all raft guides are trained to the highest standard and are independently assessed before being allowed to work commercially. The company is audited on an annual basis by the Maritime Safety Authority (MSA). MSA issues all companies with a risk assessment rating. River Rats has the lowest rating in New Zealand for any company operating on Grade 5 white water. This rating has been achieved through an absolute commitment to safety by every person who works for the company.

Guiding
All River Rats rafting expeditions are led by an N.Z.Q.A (New Zealand Qualifications Authority) qualified Senior Guide. All River Rats guides hold a New Zealand raft guide award. All Guides maintain current first aid and swift water rescue qualifications. In addition senior guides hold N.Z.Q.A qualifications in weather interpretation and risk management. All rafts on the Kaituna River are double guided. 

Rafts & Equipment
All rafts are maintained in excellent condition and undergo an independent warrant of fitness inspection on an annual basis. All River Rats equipment is of the highest standard and meets or exceeds required safety standards.

Guides/Drivers
All Guides and Drivers have a detailed knowledge of the areas and activities encountered during our tours. They are motivated, enthusiastic individuals who add a wealth of personal experiences to their detailed training, in ensuring that our clients have a stimulating and enjoyable holiday. 

THE PACKAGES

Kaitune River - Grade 5

Experience the thrill of White Water Rafting at its best on the KAITUNA RIVER! This trip includes what is reputed to be the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world. It is fast and furious - the adrenalin keeps on pumping through the foam and over the awesome 7 metre drop. Not for the fainthearted - try it if you dare!  Meet at our base at Lake Rotoiti Lakeside Holiday Park or arrange for our shuttle to pick you up from your central Rotorua accommodation. All rafting trips are professionally photographed.

COST: $79 PER PERSON

Rangitaiki River - Grade 3-4

14km of exhilaration! From the buzz of 'Geoff's Joy' - a torrent of whitewater, to the spectacular scenery between the rapids... this trip has something for everyone! The Rangitaiki is an ideal river to "get the hang of it" before hurling yourself into the fast action of the Wairoa or Kaituna, and is sheer solitude, fun and excitement without the steep drops experienced on the Grade 5 rivers. Meet at our base in Murupara or arrange for our shuttle to pick you up from your central Rotorua accommodation. Most rafting trips are professionally photographed. No experience necessary

COST: $95 PER PERSON

Wairoa River - Grade 5

Experience the thrill of one of New Zealand's best rafting trips on the WAIROA RIVER! Only 2 ¼ hours from Auckland, the Wairoa is New Zealand's most popular rafting experience, recognised worldwide for it's rafting value. A stunning rock and tree lined gorge combining turbulent rapids with exciting drops to produce top white water action. Perfect for a group outing. The Wairoa is situated just off State Highway 29 between Matamata and Tauranga. This hydro-controlled river is only released 26 days a year.

COST: $89 PER PERSON

Tongariro River - Grade 3

Tackle the 65 rapids on the Tongariro River for an exciting rafting experience that you'll never forget! The rapids are fun without being too terrifying, which makes the Tongariro a great trip for everyone. Enjoy this beautifully scenic river with its world-renowned crystal clear waters and abundance of Trout (frequently seen from the rafts). Meet at our base at the Tongariro River Rafting Centre in Atirau Road Turangi. Deli style lunch provided in summer. Hot soup, rolls & free entry to Tokaanu Hot Pools in winter. No experience necessary.

COST: $90 PER PERSON

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Rock 'n' River Rafting

Country/City: Tokaanu, NZ
Name: Rock 'n' River Rafting
Address: 203 Punga Street, RD 1 Tokaanu 2752, New Zealand
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Tel: +64 7 386 0352

We're not the biggest rafting operation, we're "one of the best rafting companies in New Zealand'
(New Zealand Adventure Magazine Apr/May 2001 edition).

From the heart of Aotearoa (NZ) flow the rivers of the Sacred Mountains. A Taonga [gift] that is owned by no one, and yet is for everyone. A gift given many times over. Journey with Rock 'n' River on these mountain rivers, and experience rafting and kayaking on the fast flowing torrents, guided through the hidden passage of raging rapids, or glide through pristine pools. 
 
Welcome to a beautiful retreat of wilderness whitewater rafting and kayaking. Close to the Tongariro River, Rock 'n' River Adventures is based in the historical thermal village of Tokaanu, New Zealand. Nestled on the shores of Southern Lake Taupo, and the northern slopes of the World Heritage Tongariro National Park.

Rock 'n' River's beautiful location is off the beaten tourist track, and though we are becoming more well known, we still have that perfect recipe of fun, and love what we do. If you are travelling this land and want to discover volcanic and mountain-fed rivers, friendly Maori/Kiwi Hospitality, and you have a sense of adventure, then join Rock 'n' River to raft and kayak the rivers of the Central North Island. 

Since 1991 Rock 'n' River has been rafting people from all walks of life, from the accompanied preschoolers on gentle float trips, to the truly adventurous on the highest gradient rivers. To all those that have and will raft and kayak with us, we hope the experience imparts more respect for this land and it's rivers.

Toitu te whenua me te awa! Preserve and protect them for all time!

THE PACKAGES

The Tongariro River
The Tongariro river is fed from the Sacred Mountains of the Central North Island Plateau. Crystal clear water flows over 60 bouncy technical rapids through a scenic volcanic gorge of beautiful native forest and fauna. This is a special and fun filled experience for white water seekers and nature lovers alike.
A riverside snack, a visit and optional jump off a hidden waterfall (conditions permitting) and a relaxing hot pool afterwards are Rock 'n' Rivers commitment to ensuring you have the best "Timeout"
Per person: $90.00

Overnight Tongariro River
The first day of this trip is accessible by raft or helicopter only, as it is within a beautiful volcanic gorge. Fishing on this river is world renowned, and supplies for camping are bought in by rafts. The second day of the trip continues through the gorge and then opens out to 2 hours of gentle rapids and pools (ideal for groups to do self guiding, under the supervision of river guides.
Per person: $250.00 We raft this trip on demand. 

Whitewater Kayaking
Exciting, do it yourself whitewater action. Forgiving sit on top kayaks, allow adventure seekers the challenge of fun and playful introductory whitewater, accompanied by experienced Rock Œn¹ River guides. Allow 3 1/2 hours on this round trip, on the beautiful crystal clear waters of the lower Tongariro River. Your adventure includes all equipment, instruction, riverside refreshments, and a warm soak in our hot pool back at our Tokaanu Base. Please bring your swimsuit and towel.
Per Person: $95.00


The Wairoa River
Flowing from the Mclaren Falls in the Kaimai Ranges is Aotearoa's most exhilarating action packed rafting. Your friendly and highly experienced river guide will run you through a comprehensive safety and paddling brief. Listen carefully as it is an important part of your trip down waterfalls and roller coaster rapids. The Wairoa is dam controlled and rafting is limited to most summer Sundays or every second Sunday in Autumn / Spring when water is released.  
Per person: $95.00

The Mohaka River
This is an overnight rafting expedition commencing just off the Napier - Taupo highway on the North islands biggest wilderness river. Stretches of quiet to begin with, allows time to practice paddling and safety techniques and enjoy the diverse scenery including unique rock formations, before tackling and afternoon of exciting rapids. The next day is adrenalin packed as you enter a gorge of towering 100 meter high limestone cliffs with boulders the size of houses. This section of the river is a thriller.
Delicious riverside picnics, evening barbeques and camping make for a wonderful wilderness experience.
Per person: $360.00

The Rangitaiki River
The Rangitaiki River near Murapara flows through one of the largest planted exotic forests in teh world. Rafting this river starts with a wonderfully exciting drop off, followed by fun and playful rapids and pools.
Per person: $95.00 (We raft on demand)

The Rangitikei River.
Forty minutes drive from Taihape, in the hilly rural countryside, is a fast steep 2.5 hour stretch of exciting white water rafting.
Per person: $105.00 (We raft on demand)

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City: Turangi
Name: Tongariro River Rafting
Address: The Rafting Centre, Atirau Road PO Box 281, Turangi, New Zealand
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Tel: (07) 386-6409

The central plateau of the North Island was formed by huge volcanic upheavals over hundreds of thousands of years forming one of natures finest adventure playgrounds. From the Sacred mountains of Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe and, Tongariro to the south, to the vast expanse of lake Taupo to the North, we are proud to call this home and offer a range of adventure activities as diverse as this wilderness landscape.

Tongariro River Rafting has since 1989 become a key provider of adventure activities to people from all walks of life. We pride ourselves in our ability to provide trips to suit the different requirements of your group, large or small, from two hours to a weeklong. Experienced guides and quality equipment are trademarks that deliver safe, wholesome and unique adventures. We look forward to sharing the Tongariro Experience with you soon

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City: Waitomo
Name: Waitomo Adventures Ltd
Address: PO Box 29, Waitomo Caves New Zealand
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Tel: +64-7-878 7788

Blackwater rafting at its Best! Waitomo Adventures gives you the chance to raft in amazing underground caves. Choose from five adventure options from basic blackwater rafting to wacky 'Haggas Honking Holes' and 'Spectacular Lost World'. Described by Lonely Planet as "One of the most amazing things you can do in this country". See why Tom Cruise and family came back three times! All options have 'Rambo' and 'Glowworm' Ratings.
Qualmark endorsed visitor activity.

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