River Rats Rafting & Kayaking

Photo #1 of 8 . Swipe for more photos. Rangitaiki Scenic Rafting Grade 2 Enjoy spectacular scenery with cascading waterfalls tumbling into the river, beautiful forest views and sheer rock gorges clad in native bush. Ideal for families or those looking for a more relaxed rafting adventure, the Lower Rangitaiki Scenic trip offers gentle rolling rapids that never rise above Grade 2. Located approximately 45 minutes from Rotorua, the Lower Rangitaiki Scenic Raft Trip starts at the base of the stunning Aniwhenua Falls, opposite the Aniwhenua Power Station. The Lower Rangitaiki Scenic Trip takes around 1 ½ hours on the water but you should allow around 6 hours in total, including travelling to and from Rotorua. Complimentary pick up is available from your central Rotorua accommodation or, if you prefer, you can meet us at River Rats Base in Murupara. * A picnic style lunch is provided on this trip * Children 5 and over are welcome * Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult * Large groups can be taken by arrangement - please contact us for details * Any pickup will be approximately one hour before the trip time * Cost: $NZ125.00 per adult, $NZ85.00 per child under 16 (valid till October 31st 2011) Lower Rangitaiki Grade 2 Trip Time: 11.30am at our river base or around 10.30am from Rotorua We provide: * Safety Helmets * Lifejackets * Wetsuits * Polar Fleece Tops (weather dependent) * Spray jackets (weather dependent) * Wetsuit Booties * Food and Drink * Hot Shower You need: * Swimsuit * Towel

Overview

We, Justin and Joann Hutton, owners and operators of River Rats, wish you an exhilarating and memorable adventure with us. We are committed to providing a safe and happy environment for both our staff and customers.

River Rats are members of the New Zealand Tourism Industry Association and Justin has served 5 years on the executive committee of the New Zealand Rafting Association, 3 of these as chairman.

Our Mission
"Our mission is to provide our clients with a thoroughly professional and friendly service while enhancing the wealth of experience of clients and staff alike. By taking the utmost pride in everything we do we will ensure that River Rats becomes acknowledged as the premier provider of quality recreational and tourism products which are in keeping with the continued well being of our natural environment."

Qualmark
River Rats are proud to be a Qualmark approved operator. Qualmark is jointly owned by Tourism New Zealand and the AA. They provide an independent quality audit of the entire business.

Rotorua Sustainable Tourism Charter
River Rats are foundation members of the Rotorua Sustainable Tourism Charter. The charter is a step by step approach, working to achieve environmental, social, and financial sustainability in local businesses.
Justin has served as deputy chair of the charter management committee.

Safety
Safety and attention to detail are a priority here at River Rats. An absolute commitment to safety by everyone who works with us has allowed us to achieve the lowest risk assesment rating in New Zealand in our annual audit by New Zealand's Maritime Safety Authority.

Guides
All River Rats rafting expeditions are led by an N.Z.Q.A. (New Zealand Qualifications Authority) qualified Senior Guide who has excellent knowledge of weather interpretation and risk management. All River Rats guides hold a New Zealand raft guide award, current first aid and swift water rescue qualifications. On the Kaituna River, all trips have two guides per raft.

Each River Rats raft guide is trained to the highest standard and is assessed before being allowed to work commercially. Each guide and driver has a detailed knowledge of the areas and activities encountered in our tours. They are motivated, enthusiastic individuals who add a wealth of personal experience to their detailed training to ensure you have a stimulating and enjoyable adventure with us.

Rafts and Equipment
River Rats provides top quality rafts and equipment that meet or exceed required safety standards. Each well maintained raft is in excellent condition and undergoes a warrant of fitness inspection on an annual basis.