Real Journeys - Queenstown Rafting

Queenstown Rafting

Queenstown is the ideal place to meet the challenge of white water rafting. Experience an unforgettable adventure in breathtaking surroundings – as you raft surging rapids and idyllic river stretches. Choose the spectacular Shotover River, or the equally beautiful but more gentle Kawarau River. Alternatively join the ultimate wilderness rafting adventure - the three-day Landsborough Wilderness Experience.

SHOTOVER RIVER RAFTING

Whether you drive, or helicopter with us into historic Skippers Canyon, the approach is magnificent. Deep river canyons cut through golden tussock-covered mountain ranges. Encounter the white water action of 'Rock Garden', 'Sharks Fin', 'Toilet', 'Pinball', 'Jaws' and 'Sequel' rapids.

Frenetic excitement alternates with idyllic moments. The unforgettable 170m 'Oxenbridge tunnel' and 'Cascade' rapid provide an exciting finish (grade 3-4+ rapids).

  • Duration 4 hours 30 mins (drive), 3 hours (Heli-rafting summer), 4 hours (Heli-rafting winter).
  • Suitable for water competent people (13 years and over)
  • Winter (June - Sept): Helicopter ride into Skippers Canyon is the only Shotover River option available.
  • Transfer from accommodation or Queenstown Rafting Adventure Centre to Cavell's Rafting Lodge
  • Comprehensive briefing provided on safety and paddling techniques
  • Sauna and hot showers at Cavell's Rafting Lodge
  • Complimentary snack and refreshments provided

SHOTOVER RIVER RAFTING
 
Adult/Child
01 Oct 09 - 30 Sep 10
Adult/Child
01 Oct 10 - 30 Sep 11
Ex Queenstown
$175.00
$185.00

SHOTOVER RIVER HELI-RAFTING
 
Adult/Child
01 Oct 09 - 30 Sep 10
Adult/Child
01 Oct 10 - 30 Sep 11
Ex Queenstown
$259.00
$275.00

KAWARAU RIVER RAFTING

Stretches of quiet water allow ample time to practice paddling techniques, look at the scenery or get caught up in a friendly water fight.

Four rapids -- Smiths Falls, Twin Bridges, Do Little Do Nothing, and of course, the unforgettable 400m Chinese Dog Leg, make this trip a great introduction to the thrills and adventure of white water rafting.

  • Transport from hotel or Queenstown Rafting Adventure Centre to Cavell’s Rafting Lodge
  • Change into full wetsuit rafting clothing and all other equipment provided
  • Transfer to Kawarau River put-in point
  • Extensive safety instructions and paddling techniques
  • Raft the Kawarau River
  • Return transfer to Cavell’s Rafting Lodge
  • Hot showers and sauna
  • Complimentary snack and refreshments provided
  • Transfer/Return travel to Queenstown Rafting Adventure Centre
Mild Rapids
Safety Instructions

KAWARAU RIVER RAFTING
 
Adult/Child
01 Oct 09 - 30 Sep 10
Adult/Child
01 Oct 10 - 30 Sep 11
Ex Queenstown
$175.00
$185.00

KAWARAU RIVER HELI - RAFTING
 
Adult/Child
01 Oct 09 - 30 Sep 10
Adult/Child
01 Oct 10 - 30 Sep 11
Ex Queenstown
$259.00
$275.00

Departure Point:
Queenstown Rafting Adventure Centre, 35 Shotover St, Queenstown

Equipment Supplied:
All rafting equipment, clothing and transport (including wetsuit, wetsuit jacket, spray jacket, paddle, helmet, wetsuit booties, and a life jacket)

Client Information:
Swimsuit and towel necessary
Complimentary snack and refreshments provided
We do not recommend valuables be brought along (i.e., passports/travellers cheques/jewellery, etc.)
No responsibility is taken for clients’ belongings
Rafting is not available to children aged under 13 years
In the event the Shotover River is unsuitable, rafting may be transferred to the Kawarau River

SCHEDULES

EXCURSIONS SCHEDULE
Shotover River Rafting
Kawarau River Rafting
Depart
Return
Season
Depart
Return
Season
8:15am
12:00pm
Oct - May + Sep
8:15am
12:00pm
All Year
1:15pm
5:00pm
Oct - May + Sep
1:15pm
5:00pm
All Year

EXCURSIONS SCHEDULE
Shotover River Heli - Rafting
Kawarau River Heli - Rafting
Depart
Return
Season
Depart
Return
Season
8:15am
12:00pm
All Year
8:15am
12:00pm
All Year
1:15pm
5:00pm
All Year
1:15pm
5:00pm
All Year

Queenstown Rafting