Take on the rapids of the mighty Kawarau River on New Zealand’s South Island for the ultimate adrenaline rush. Guide your purpose-built sled through 3.7 miles (6 kilometers) of some of New Zealand's best high-volume, white water with big fast-flowing rapids, standing waves and whirlpools. Then finish with a peaceful flat section to get your breath back and take in the fantastic scenery of the historic Kawarau River. No previous experience is necessary, just confidence in the water and a sense of adventure.
- Choice of morning or afternoon departure
White-water sledging, also known as riverboarding or hydro speed, is a fun-filled, exhilarating experience. Using a high-flotation sled, designed for buoyancy in highly aerated water, you’ll travel through some of New Zealand’s most amazing scenery. With only the board between you and the river, it is the best way to get up close and personal with nature.
The white-water sledging begins from the Roaring Meg section of the Kawarau River. Transport from Queenstown or Wanaka is included (approximately 40 to 45 minutes by road). During a safely briefing, your instructor will teach you all the skills required. You will be equipped with a padded wetsuit, booties, life jacket, helmet and fins for kicking and steering. Then it’s time to hit the water!
With your chest resting on the purpose-built sled and your arms tucked into each side of the sled for good grip and control, your instructor will guide you down the river, taking the best route to maximize your white-water sledging experience. The rapids of this section of the Kawarau River are graded 2-3.
And just when you think it is over, your instructors will take you back to the start and get you to run the 3.7 miles (6 km) of rapids again, leaving you a fully qualified and experienced white-water sledger!
Schedule details
White-Water Sledging
Select a month to view a calendar of availability and departure details.
Departure Point:
Central locations in Queenstown and Wanaka or at the Roaring Meg Power Station on State Highway 6Return Details:
Returns to original departure pointPricing information
Click the link below to check pricing & availability on your preferred travel date. Our pricing is constantly updated to ensure you always receive the lowest price possible.
Tour options:
Departure from Queenstown at 8:15am. Includes hotel pickup and drop-off from centrally located Queenstown hotels
Departure from Queenstown at 1:15pm. Includes hotel pickup and drop-off from centrally located Queenstown hotels
Departure from Wanaka at 8am. Includes hotel pickup and drop-off from centrally located Wanaka hotels
Departure from Wanaka at 1pm. Includes hotel pickup and drop-off from centrally located Wanaka hotels
Morning white-water sledging from the Roaring Meg power station at 8:50am
Afternoon white-water sledging from the Roaring Meg power station at 1:50pm
Additional information
White Water Sledging
Inclusions:
- White-water sledging on the Kawarau River
- Professional guide
- All equipment: Purpose-built sled, padded wetsuit, booties, life jacket, helmet and fins
- Round-trip transfers from Queenstown or Wanaka (if option selected)
- Light refreshments are provided after the white-water sledging
Exclusions:
- Food and drinks
Additional Information:
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Minimum age is 12 years
- Operates in all weather conditions
- Maxiumum of 10 people per group
- Moderate level of fitness and water confidence is required. All participants must be able to swim
Voucher Info:
You can present either a paper or an electronic voucher for this activity. What's this?
Local Operator Information:
Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.
95 reviews