Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
Our highly trained and enthusiastic guides are experts in easing any nerves, especially if it's your first time. They'll keep you entertained and informed about the stunning scenery and wildlife you'll encounter as you drift along.
During your adventure, you'll have the chance to meet our friends the Whio, highly endangered native blue ducks that inhabit the Tongariro River. They often live in pairs along the riverbanks—see if you can spot them!
The waters of the Tongariro are pristine and crystal clear, thanks to natural springs. Keep an eye out for the large rainbow and brown trout that thrive in these waters.
Wheelchair accessible
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Wetsuit, river shoes, polar fleece, helmet, lifejacket
Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Welcome to our Turangi headquarters where a friendly greeting awaits you! Here, you'll meet your expert guide who will provide a thorough briefing and equip you with top-notch gear, ensuring your comfort and safety throughout the adventure. Our facility includes restrooms and changing areas where you're welcome to change into your swimwear and slip into the provided rafting equipment. You need to bring swimsuit, towel and any emergency medication including but not limited to asthma inhaler, epi pen, heart medication etc Once you're all set, we'll transport you from the bustling town to the tranquil banks of the lower Tongariro River—a short journey to where your thrilling adventure kicks off. From there, you will navigate the lower section of the Tongariro River onboard your raft with your experienced guide showing you the ropes. This Grade 2 section of the river is gentler and ideal for younger children or first time rafters.
11 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
waynerP9846HG,
Aug 12, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Professional outfit with all the equipment to keep us safe and warm in the winter conditions. Friendly service throughout and the grade 2 river had enough thrills and spills to keep a 9 and 13 year old feeling the adrenaline for their first rafting trip.
GrandTour18556783252,
Apr 27, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
We did the family float adventure, which included kids aged 10-13. It was the perfect intro to rafting for them and they all loved it so much they've asked if we can do the next level up next year. Our guide, Sarah, was so fun with a bubbly personality that just added to the whole adventure. The gear provided meant we were warm and comfortable, even though it was a rainy Autumn day. Also, two members of our party had to drop out in the week before due to a broken arm. Tongariro rafting's communication was warm and timely and they gave us a refund for the affected parties immediately. We will definitely be back to try another adventure. Can't recommend Tongariro River Rafting enough!
servicetax,
Mar 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Loved this! I booked a family raft cos it was the first time for my kids (ages 10, 13). The river ride took us through some calm areas and some grade 1-2 drops which have whetted their appetite for more. If we had more time in the area we would have gone back to do another section with grade 3 thrills too cos the boys ended the trip begging for more! Our instructor guide Lucy was so confident, calm and put us at ease from our point of registration through the whole journey. Well worth the money & time spent on our morning!
799glenk,
Jan 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
They made everything easy for beginners. Knowledgeable and capable guides made us feel safe. A really fun and exhilarating experience.
FarAway234879,
Jan 20, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Very professional and safe operation running a fantastic family rafting adventure - great intro for kids or parents who are hesitant. We will be back to try the next level up!
Companion33567610659,
Jan 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Perfect balance of rapids to give a thrill without scaring younger kids. I have limited mobility and all the staff went out of their way to ensure I could still enjoy the trip.
Adrian S,
Jan 10, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Great experience from start to finish particularly for a nervous newbie like me. We took our 5 yr old twins and 8 yr old and all of us had a good time. Knowledgeable and fun guides. Thoroughly recommend it

MattChett84,
Jan 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
We had an amazing day with our 7 and 9 year old boys & Charlie was superb as our skipper. Learned a lot about Rafting, the local area and wildlife along the way. Very highly recommended!!!
cathyrL8413BI,
Jan 1, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Awesome trip!! We were well briefed beforehand. Any nerves were eased. Our guide Miai was super with Good guidance and little bits of info about the river and surrounding areas. Myself and my 12 year old loved it.
florencedeim,
Nov 30, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
My family of four, including 2 young boys 6&7, had a wonderful time on the water with Corbin. This was our first time river rafting and Corbin and Charlie did an excellent job of explaining every step of the process in set up, assisting the final outfitting for my kids and of course being great guides on the water. We were fortunate in seeing Whio (4!) and a multitude of wildlife. This was a confidence booster for my kids and I know they're already looking forward to their next time on the water.

Operated by Tongariro River Rafting