Shotover River White Water Rafting by RealNZ at RealNZ Queenstown Visitor Centre

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Age suitability

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Know before you go

Your Experience on the Shotover River

Prepare for a Rafting Challenge

Your Shotover River adventure begins with a scenic journey along the infamous Skippers Canyon road. This road is known for its dizzying drop-offs and tight corners, offering you dramatic vistas of the canyon's steep rock walls and the river winding far below. Relax as your experienced driver navigates each twist and turn, bringing you safely to the rafting base. On arrival, you’ll receive a full briefing and suit up in all the provided safety gear, including wetsuits, helmets and life jackets.

Into the Rapids

Once you’re geared up and prepared by your guide, you’ll launch onto the Shotover River at Deep Creek. The river’s calm start quickly gives way to an adrenaline-filled journey as your raft tackles thrilling grade 3-5 rapids. You’ll paddle as a team, guided by a seasoned local who expertly leads you through swirling white water, past rugged schist outcrops and under the gaze of the towering Remarkables. Hold tight as your raft enters the Oxenbridge Tunnel — a hand-carved passage from the gold rush days. Emerging from darkness, there’s one last challenge: cascading through the infamous Cascade Rapid.

Scenery and History Combined

This iconic river once earned the name “the richest river in the world” for the extraordinary amount of gold discovered here during the 19th-century rush. Today, its legacy and natural grandeur make it a must-do for adventure seekers. As you navigate the wild water, you’ll be surrounded by panoramic views of the Central Otago landscape, with rocky cliffs, alpine forests and distant mountain peaks.

After Your Rafting Adventure

Back at the rafting base, shake off the river chill with a hot shower and change into dry clothes. Your guide will send you complimentary digital photos to your email, so you can relive the excitement and share your achievement. Coaches return you to Queenstown, leaving you with the memory of conquering some of New Zealand’s most legendary rapids.

Who Can Join?

This adventure welcomes participants who are comfortable in the water, in moderate physical condition and willing to follow all safety instructions. For everyone’s safety, there are weight, age and health requirements — check details before booking. The experience is not suitable for children under 13, guests outside the specified weight range, or those with certain medical conditions.

• Travel through iconic Skippers Canyon to the Shotover River

• Expert guides lead every raft for safety and confidence

• All rafting equipment and river gear included

• Session lasts around 4.5 hours, including transfer time

• Complimentary hot shower and digital photos provided

Book your Shotover River White Water Rafting tickets now!

Visitor guidelines

• Arrive early to allow time for check-in and briefing

• Follow all safety instructions from guides at all times

• Do not participate if you have ongoing medical conditions or are pregnant

• Wear appropriate swimwear and bring a towel

• Electronic devices are not permitted during rafting

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation