Kawarau River
ATTRACTION Keywords:
Nature & Wildlife,
Off-the-Beaten Path,
Water Sports,
River
If you’re a bungy enthusiast you’ll know that Kawarau River is the site of the world's first commercial bungy. It’s still possible to take a dive from the bridge that started it all. On your way down you’ll see the trademark sky-blue water and green cliffs of Kawarau River, you might even touch the water!
The river is extremely popular with thrill seekers who come for river surfing, riverboarding and jet boating. The white-water rafting is particularly excellent with rapids to suit beginners to experienced rafters and some calm stretches where you can rest and take in the spectacular scenery.
More sedate history seekers come to check out the gold-miners huts and relics from the river’s gold-rush days.
Latest Reviews
Review by Josefina B, January 2013
Doing what: Queenstown Kawarau River White Water Rafting
Kawarau River whitewater rafting was upgraded to Shotover, it was indeed unbelievable. Esteban, our guide was superb. I was nervous at first but he made it so enjoyable. Highly recommended.
Review by Sheree H, December 2012
Doing what: Queenstown Kawarau River White Water Rafting
Best experience in Queenstown - well organised for an exciting day,
Review by Harry, October 2011
Serious Fun Riversurfing - The trip was amazing, a great way to get up close and personal to the rapids on the Kawarau River. The guides were friendly and did a great job teaching us how to surf a river wave. Trip ends with a big class 4 rapid where we crashed through some massive waves. I would definately do it again.
Practical Info
The river is a short drive from Queenstown and plenty of tour groups will shuttle you to the river if you book an activity with them.
