Kaituna River: Rotorua Rafting and Soaking in “Hell”

From NZD 545 per person

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Getaway Summary

• Location: Rotorua, Bay of Plenty
• 2 nights/3 days
• Accommodation in a central 4* hotel with daily breakfast
• Rotorua Rafting on the Kaituna River, approx. 2 hours
• Hell’s Gate Experience (geothermal walk, entry to sulphur and mud pools)

Rotorua Rafting – Conquer the World’s Highest Rafted Waterfall!

Get ready to get absolutely soaked and have the time of your life with Rotorua Rafting! This is hands down one of the most epic whitewater rafting adventures in Aotearoa. The Kaituna River is famous for one thing: Tutea Falls, the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall at a whopping 7 metres. Yep, you’ll be paddling right off the edge – and loving every second of it!

The trip kicks off with some friendly banter from your guides, who are absolute legends. They’ll get you geared up, teach you the basics, and make sure you feel safe and pumped for what’s ahead. The Kaituna River isn’t just about the waterfall, though—it’s a mix of fun rapids, calm moments to catch your breath, and stunning native bush all around you.

Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just looking for an unforgettable experience, Rotorua Rafting balances the thrills with loads of laughs. The team has a real passion for what they do and a deep respect for the river, which is rich in Māori history.

And the best part? Even if you fall out (it happens a lot), it’s all part of the fun and totally safe. By the end, you’ll be buzzing, dripping wet, and probably already planning to do it again.

Rotorua Hell’s Gate Spa and geothermal walk

“Double, double toil and trouble, fire burn and cauldron bubble…”

You could almost think Shakespeare had Hell’s Gate Rotorua in mind when he came up with these lines. Hell’s Gate looks, feels and smells exactly like witches’ brew. Hot, muddy water bubbles, the scent of sulphur fills the air, and the steam colours the grey rocks yellow. A fascinating, deadly place and at the same time alive with tiny little organisms.

Time your visit right and you can join a complimentary guided tour around the geothermal park (usually twice daily, but they might offer more tours in summer). If you prefer to walk through Hell’s Gate by yourself, you can do this, too. A map and brochure explain how the mud volcano works and exactly how warm the biggest hot water waterfall in the Southern Hemisphere is).

After the geothermal walk, head over to Hell’s Gate Spa. Take off all your silver jewellery as you’re about to indulge in a sulphur bath that will colour all silver black if you’re not careful. The hot mud pools rotate in 20-minute slots. Once it’s your turn, cover your body and face in the healing Rotorua mud and let dry for a bit. Rinse it off in the water and repeat. You can spend as much time as you like (or can bear, considering the smell) in the sulphur pools, looking over the moon-like landscape. Your skin will feel soft as baby skin for days.

Your Rotorua Accommodation

Princes Gate Hotel Rotorua is a charming and elegant accommodation option, offering a blend of history, luxury, and comfort. This iconic hotel, with its Victorian architecture and warm atmosphere, is located right in the heart of Rotorua and only steps from restaurants and the waterfront, making it a perfect base for exploring the area’s geothermal wonders, lakes, and cultural experiences.

The Estate Rooms at Princes Gate Hotel are a step above, offering spacious and stylish accommodations that blend classic elegance with modern convenience. Each room is tastefully decorated with luxurious furnishings, giving you a sense of timeless comfort and sophistication. Whether you’re visiting for a romantic getaway or a girls’ trip, these rooms provide a peaceful escape after a day of sightseeing.

One of the highlights of staying at Princes Gate Hotel is their delicious breakfast buffet. The buffet offers a wide selection of hot and cold dishes, from freshly baked pastries and fruit to hearty cooked options like eggs, bacon, and sausages. It’s a great way to start your day before heading out to explore all that Rotorua has to offer!