The Best Whitewater Rafting Adventures in Australasia

Looking for unforgettable whitewater rafting experiences? From remote jungle rivers to epic heli-rafting in the Southern Alps, here are the best rafting spots in Australasia — packed with thrills, scenery, and adventure.

Watut River – Papua New Guinea

Arguably one of the most remote and adventurous rivers in the world, the Watut River in Morobe Province offers wild, pristine rafting with few human footprints. With rapids like Four Part Harmony and Between a Rock and a Hard Place, it’s a paradise for experienced rafters.

Best time to go: Late September to early October
Highlights: Rare wildlife, remote tribal visits, thick jungle landscapes

Orange raft with paddlers on the Watut River in Papua New Guinea — The Watut is one of the best rivers on the planet

Franklin River – Tasmania, Australia

A true conservation victory story, the Franklin River flows through protected Tasmanian wilderness. Voted the best rafting trip on Earth by Outside Magazine, this river offers challenging rapids, ancient rainforests, and a sense of untouched natural beauty.

Best time to go: October to April
Trip style: Multi-day wilderness expedition

Rangitikei River – North Island, New Zealand

Known for its steep and scenic gorges, the Rangitikei River delivers intense whitewater in a short span. This Grade V section packs 10 major rapids into just under 7 miles.

Best time to go: October to March
Recommended base: River Valley Lodge
Vibe: Best half-day rafting trip in NZ

Orange raft with paddlers in Grade 5 rapid on Rangitikei River

Whataroa River – South Island, New Zealand

Ready for a cinematic heli-rafting experience? The Whataroa River combines a thrilling helicopter ride with turquoise water, epic whitewater, and side hikes into untouched landscapes.

Best time to go: December to March
Must-have: Flexible dates — this river is rain-dependent

Kaituna River – Rotorua, New Zealand

Looking for adrenaline in under an hour? The Kaituna River is home to Tutea Falls, the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall (7 meters / 21 feet). This is short, sharp fun with a splash of “Disneyland” whitewater charm.

Trip time: ~45 minutes
Why go: Giggles, thrills, and bucket-list waterfall drop

Rafting a waterfall on the North Island of New Zealand — Tutea Falls on the Kaituna River, near Rotorua

Karamea River – West Coast, NZ

Remote and wild, the Karamea River in Kahurangi National Park requires a helicopter to access. Expect Grade IV–V rapids over 1–3 days. Shaped by a massive 1929 earthquake, this river is a blend of excitement and geological history.

Best time to go: November to March
Experience level: Intermediate to advanced

Landsborough River – Southern Alps, NZ

This is the ultimate multi-day rafting trip in New Zealand. After a breathtaking helicopter ride into the Alps, paddle through thrilling rapids like Hellfire and Stoat Trap, camp under the stars, and float out with views of Mt Hooker.

Best time to go: December to March
Duration: 2-night wilderness adventure

Guide rowing gear raft on Landsborough River

Shotover River – Queenstown, NZ

Once one of the richest gold-bearing rivers, the Shotover River now delivers golden whitewater experiences. Accessed via a rugged 4WD journey, this trip features epic rapids like Shark’s Fin, Toilet, and a 180-meter tunnel!

Season: Year-round (shorter winter trips)
Nearby option: Kawerau River – great for high-volume rafting

Plan the Ultimate Whitewater Rafting Road Trip

Many of these rivers can be combined into one epic itinerary. Our 14-day New Zealand Whitewater Rafting Road Trip lets you tackle nine incredible rivers with expert guides and unforgettable landscapes.

Clients waving to helicopter as it leaves river on New Zealands South Island — More than 10 amazing adventures in just 2 weeks in New Zealand

Ready to Paddle?

Whether you’re a seasoned rafter or a thrill-seeking first-timer, Australasia offers some of the world’s most spectacular whitewater adventures.

Let us know: Which river is calling your name? Or have we missed a favorite? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

by Hamish McMaster

Hamish McMaster is the Water By Nature owner. He has spent the past 25 years exploring and playing on the world's great rivers. He still loves nothing more than getting out there and sharing adventures.

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The Best Whitewater Rafting in Australasia