Visitor Centre · Outdoor activities

Half-Day Whitewater Rafting Adventure on the Shotover River with Return Transfers

Book up until 30 September 2026
9.8
Outstanding
223 reviews from Google

Explore New Zealand’s rugged backyard in the best way – on a whitewater rafting adventure along the Shotover River. Calm your nerves on the beautiful coach trip through Skippers Canyon and feel inspired by the cascading cliff edges before you hit the water. An expert rafting guide will take you down grade 3–5 whitewater rapids in one of the most picturesque landscapes in the world, including through the famous 170m Oxenbridge Tunnel. If you’re a keen thrill seeker, get your blood pumping with this memorable experience.

Inclusions
  • Valid for one person (13+) (*minimum 40kg, maximum 120kg)
  • Half-day whitewater rafting adventure on the Shotover River (*approximately 4.5 hours)
  • Wetsuit, booties, spray jacket, paddle, helmet, life jacket and safety equipment
  • Experienced rafting guide
  • Safety briefing
  • Hot showers at the rafting base
  • Return transfers via shuttle bus from downtown Queenstown via Skippers Canyon Road
  • Available every day: Departs 8am and 1pm
  • Please note: A surcharge from NZ$20 applies to all bookings between 20 December 2025 and 20 January 2026, payable directly to RealNZ
Overview
Availability: Every day
Duration: Flexible
FromUS$190/person
Includes taxes & fees
Check availability

Pricing & availability

Location
Visitor Centre
From
US$190/person
Give this experience as a gift
Surprise a special someone with the gift of an unforgettable experience. They can book until 30 Sep 2026.
Location

Visitor Centre, Steamer Wharf, QTWN

Things to know

  • Bookings essential via email reservations@realnz.com quoting your voucher number
  • Book early to secure your desired date and time. Bookings are valid only during the time period you have selected at time of purchase – please make your selection carefully
  • Present printed or smartphone purchase/booking confirmation on arrival

Things don’t always work out, so enjoy peace of mind knowing that the following cancellation options are available to you.

100% refund to your original payment method or credits
  • Up to 7 days after purchase
  • As long as 24 hours before booking date
Non-refundable
  • From 24 hours before the booking date
  • Swimwear
  • Towel

Every day

Important:

  • Exclusions: Meals, drinks and hotel transfers
  • Any additional personal expenses must be paid directly to RealNZ
  • Please note: Bookings are not valid on 25 December
  • Please note: A surcharge from NZ$20 applies to all bookings between 20 December 2025 and 20 January 2026, payable directly to RealNZ
  • Pick-Up/Drop-Off Point: RealNZ Visitor Centre – Steamer Wharf, 88 Beach Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
  • Please arrive at the pick-up point at least 15 minutes prior to scheduled departure time. Late arrivals and no-shows voids offer
  • All participants must be water-competent and have a moderate fitness level. This includes being able to swim at least 25m unaided
  • It is advised not to bring any valuables with you, however a small valuables locker is available at the rafting base if you need it

Terms & Conditions:

  • Minimum numbers apply for tour to proceed. Guests need to reconfirm at least 24 hours prior to departure to confirm trip will be operating
  • Minimum 40kg and maximum 120kg weight limit applies
  • Minimum age of participants is 13 years. Participants aged 13–17 must be accompanied by an adult (18+)
  • Tour is NOT suitable for travellers with a heart condition or those taking heart medication
  • Tour is not suitable for pregnant people
  • If you are deemed physically unfit to engage within the experience the cost of the trip will be refunded
  • All trips operate dependent on weather, river level and/or water temperature
  • Itinerary is subject to change without notice depending on weather and sailing conditions
  • Participation in rafting activities involves a degree of risk and the rafting operator cannot absolutely guarantee participants’ safety
  • Participants need to listen carefully to the guides’ instructions
  • RealNZ reserves the right to cancel trips or substitute another river or section of river for safety reasons
  • Please ensure you have read and accepted RealNZ’s terms and conditions prior to sending a reservation request
  • Portages may be required based on changes to the water level and flow

Please Note:

  • Bookings for this offer are limited and subject to availability. Not valid with any other offer
  • Entire value must be used in one visit; any unused portions will be forfeited, and cannot be used at a later date

Important:

We reserve the right to modify prices for marketing and commercial reasons. Please note that full terms and conditions apply. Full terms and conditions are located on the terms and conditions page of our website

RealNZ

Find one of the best adventure experiences in New Zealand with RealNZ. Since its establishment in 1954, RealNZ has shown tourists from across the globe the best of New Zealand. From Fiordland and Stewart Island to Queenstown and right across southern New Zealand, feel the thrill of a RealNZ experience.

Website

Reviews

9.8
Outstanding
Reviews from Google