Rivers we kayak
Kaituna Kayaks offer trips on a number of rivers, including the major 7 river runs around the Bay of Plenty and Waikato regions.
Having a solid understanding of whitewater (ie catching eddies, ferry gliding, throw bagging, rolling, river swimming, self rescue) is minimum requirement of skill for guided trips.
Kaituna River Grade 4/5
The Kaituna River is an all time classic, this river has the world's highest commercially kayaked and rafted waterfall, Tutea Falls. It consists of a 1.4km section with 15 major rapids from Grade 3 to 5, with three waterfalls all over a metre high. In the summer months the river reaches temperatures of 24degrees C. It flows from the two major lakes in the area, Rotoiti and Rotorua, meaning that it has very consistent flows all year for us to kayak. The Kaituna River has an abundance of features to play on or hone your skills. It is the perfect river for learning over the summer as it is warm and a deep single channel.
Rangitaiki River Grade 3/4
The Rangitaiki flows from high in the mountains, carving its way through deep gorges lined with beautiful bush. The 12km run has a mellow start with several technical rapids downstream which will really get your heart pumping. A pool separates the upper and lower sections - the beautiful clear waters lets you see deep into the pool and you may see a brown or rainbow trout as you float along.
Tongariro River Grade 3
Rock garden Grade 3, 16km, clear water deep pools, native bush, small volume, even gradient, single braid boulder channels.
Aniwhenua Grade 2/3
Grade 2/3, beautiful deep gorges, the best river for Grade 2/3 teaching.
Lower Wairoa River Grade 3/4
This section includes a couple of Grade 2 -3 rapids, a great rock splat wall and a 2m ledge drop. The river only flows on selected dates over the summer as it's dam released.
