River Surfing Queenstown – Immersive Whitewater Adventure

From $285.00 NZD Per Adult

River Surfing Queenstown – Immersive Whitewater Adventure puts you right in the action as you ride standing waves and tackle grade 2–3 rapids on the Kawarau River. Dive through whirlpools, catch powerful currents, and soak up Queenstown’s dramatic alpine scenery along the way.

The experience

River Surfing Queenstown – Whitewater Without Limits

Unleash your adventurous side with River Surfing Queenstown, a high-energy whitewater experience that puts you right in the middle of the action. Ride standing waves, dive through whirlpools, and harness powerful river currents on a purpose-built bodyboard as you tackle the Kawarau River’s famous grade 2–3 rapids. Running seasonally from October to May, this is one of Queenstown’s most exhilarating and immersive ways to experience whitewater — no raft, no sidelines, just you and the river.

Your adventure begins with a comprehensive safety briefing and technique session led by experienced guides. Fully geared up in a wetsuit, fins, helmet, and a lightweight, highly manoeuvrable board, you’ll learn how to control your speed, balance, and movement before heading into the flow. Once on the river, expect an adrenaline-fuelled mix of fast rapids, spinning eddies, optional rock jumps, and calmer sections where you can take in the dramatic canyon walls, native bush, and alpine scenery that frame the Kawarau.

Highlights

  • Seasonal operation from October to May
  • Grade 2–3 whitewater river surfing on the Kawarau River
  • Surf standing waves and spin through powerful whirlpools
  • Purpose-built bodyboards designed for stability, speed, and control
  • Professional guides with full safety briefing and instruction
  • Optional rock jumps for extra thrills
  • Scenic river sections with stunning canyon and alpine views

Important Information
Participants must be confident swimmers with the ability to kick, turn, and balance in moving water.

Supplier: Serious Fun River Boarding

The highlights

The details

Duration
DURATION: 4.5 hours
TIME OF TOUR: 8:30 AM / 2 PM (Nov - Mar)
10 AM (Apr - May)
Check In
Check in for River Surfing is at the Departure Time
Location: Loading zone at 5 Duke St, at the back of the bakery.
Transport
Free transfers from Queenstown or Self Drive.
Additional Inclusions
N/A

The restrictions

Physical
Medium fitness, swimming ability and English speaking.
Accessibility
Individuals using wheelchairs may face challenges participating in this activity and is not recommended.
Pregnancy & Babies
Not suitable for pregnant women.
Children
Minimum age 8 YRS - a guardian or parent must accompany the child on the tour.
Under 13s get extra assistance from a guide.

The common questions

Cameras are recommended, but carried at your own risk, must be mounted.
Dress for the weather, Swimwear/ towel / water & enclosed shoes are a must.
Yes – we have a secure container at the base for small belongings.
Please contact for a weather check before your tour.
Our standard cancellation policy of written notice 48 hours prior for full refund applies for this activity. For more information please refer to our terms and conditions.

Book Experience

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