Your day of sledging begins with transportation to the launch site. There, you'll be kitted out with all the equipment necessary for a fun and safe experience. Riverboarding requires a top-notch safety kit to both protect you from the elements and aid you in battling the currents. A padded wetsuit, life jacket, helmet, booties, and of course your trusty sledge will all be provided. There's no experience necessary—all you need to bring is your swimsuit and your sense of adventure!
The sledge, a high-flotation device similar to a body board, is designed with indentations for your arms and sturdy handles you'll use to master control of the rapids. Your riverboarding guides will first coach you on dry ground and guide you throughout the day. You'll soon be a pro at reading the water's dynamics and choosing strategies to navigate safely while catching some serious sledge speed.
Rotorua is one of New Zealand's premier whitewater destinations, and there's a good reason why! As you fly through the foam and spray on your sledge, you'll be surrounded by the pristine beauty of the Kaituna River. The lush, steep-sided canyons and exceptionally warm water make Kaituna an internationally-known hot spot for water sports. While you take in the verdant temperate rainforest, you'll experience thrilling grade 3 rapids and the various play features the river has to offer. Rafting Kaituna River and its waterfalls is a well-known activity, but sledging is a way to really engage with the water and test your mettle!
After your exhilarating and exhausting time in the water, it's time to dry off. To remember your spectacular day of sledging in Rotorua, take advantage of the photo packages on offer—pictures will be taken throughout the day and available for purchase. Then it's back to civilisation...but once you've braved the mighty Kaituna River, you'll already be planning your next sledging adventure!
Adrenaline
Adrenaline 