In short
- Grade 5 adult tickets cost $115 to $145 NZD.
- Grade 3 youth options cost $75 to $80 NZD.
- Platform prices start from 78.74, but they frequently change.
In this article
Knowing what you will pay for a Kaituna River trip helps you plan your Rotorua budget. Your ticket covers all essential safety gear, but extras like photos or transport can add to the total cost. Here is exactly what you can expect to spend.
How much are standard Kaituna River rafting tickets?
Adult tickets for the Grade 5 trip usually cost $115 to $145 NZD.
If you book through third-party platforms, starting prices often hover around 78.74. Prices change based on the operator and the season. The Grade 3 half-river option for younger guests is cheaper. This youth trip costs roughly $75 to $80 NZD.
Does the ticket include safety equipment?
Yes, your ticket covers all necessary river gear.
You do not need to rent equipment. Operators provide wetsuits, helmets, buoyancy aids, booties, and paddles at no extra charge. Fleece tops and splash jackets are also included for colder winter days.
Are there extra costs for photos?
Professional photos are not included in the standard ticket price.
Guides take photos during the trip, especially at the massive 7-metre Tutea Falls drop. You can view these images back at the base after your run. Expect to pay an additional fee on-site if you want to download or print them.
How much does transport to the river cost?
A shuttle from central Rotorua usually costs $15 NZD each way.
Some operators require you to arrange this transport in advance when booking your ticket. However, a few companies include free central Rotorua pick-up in their base ticket price. If you have a car, self-driving is cheaper.
What extras do different operators include?
Operators offer different perks within their base ticket prices.
Some companies provide a free sauna after your river run to warm up. Others focus on free private transport or cultural storytelling. Compare the inclusions to get the best value for your money.
Is it free to watch the rafters?
Yes, viewing the falls from the shore is completely free.
Access to the Department of Conservation Okere Falls Track requires no ticket. You can walk the trail to the viewing platforms. From there, you can watch rafts plunge down Tutea Falls without paying a cent.
Questions travellers ask
Do I need to pay for parking at Okere Falls?
No, there is plentiful free parking available at the Okere Falls Scenic Reserve and at the nearby operator bases just off State Highway 33.
Are there ticket discounts for children?
The minimum age for the Grade 5 trip is 13, and they usually pay the standard adult rate. Children aged 10 to 12 can take the Grade 3 half-river trip, which costs $75 to $80 NZD.
Do I need to pay to rent a wetsuit?
No. Your base ticket price includes a wetsuit, helmet, buoyancy aid, and all other safety gear needed for the river.
