Tackle six grade 3–5 rapids on the Shotover River with expert guides in this action-packed 4.5-hour whitewater rafting adventure.
Getting started
Begin your journey in Queenstown, where a shuttle takes you to the Rafting Base for a safety briefing and gear fitting. After meeting your guides, travel by coach through Skippers Canyon to the river’s launch point.
What to expect
The Shotover River is renowned for its challenging rapids and dramatic canyon scenery, making it a premier destination for whitewater rafting in New Zealand.
Features
Grade 3–5 rapids: Navigate six exhilarating whitewater sections, offering a thrilling test for water-competent swimmers.
Skippers Canyon: Enjoy a scenic coach ride along cliffside roads, showcasing the region’s rugged landscape.
Oxenbridge tunnel: Raft through a 170m tunnel, a unique highlight of the river route.
Small group rafts: Experience the adventure with a maximum of 8 people per raft for a more personal outing.
Comfort and safety: All wetsuits, jackets, helmets, and safety equipment are provided, with hot showers available at the end.
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Bring a swimsuit and towel for use after your rafting experience.
Bring a valid photo ID if you are under 18, as proof of age may be required.
Bring only essential personal items; lockers are available at the Rafting Base for storage.
Cameras, GoPros, and other recording devices are not allowed on the raft for health and safety reasons.
Personal clothing for rafting is not permitted; all necessary gear will be provided.
Spectators are not allowed on the river due to the remote location and terrain.
Participation is not permitted for non-swimmers, pregnant individuals, or those with heart conditions (except managed blood pressure with medication).
Participation is not permitted for those unable to understand or follow safety briefings in English, unless accompanied by a translator.
Valuables are advised not to be brought to the experience.
Safety is a priority so this experience is restricted for guests under the weight of 40kg (88.18lb), over the weight of 118kg (260.15lb) and under the age of 13 years.
The experience is not fully wheelchair accessible.
Pregnant people and guests with back issues, cardiac issues, and other serious medical conditions cannot participate in the experience.
Participants must be water-competent (able to swim 25m unaided) and possess moderate fitness.
All participants must sign a waiver form.
Listen carefully to guides’ instructions at all times.
All trips are subject to weather, river level, and water temperature; the operator may cancel or substitute routes for safety reasons.
Portages may be required based on changes to water level and flow.
Glasses and sunglasses are allowed with a sports strap.
Hot showers, toilets, and lockers are available at the Rafting Base.
Participation in rafting activities involves a degree of risk; safety cannot be absolutely guaranteed.
The operator reserves the right to refuse participation and cancel or amend any trips due to river, road, or weather conditions or insufficient numbers in the interest of all guests’ safety.
Cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time. Variant-specific cancellation policies may apply.
