Local Lens: Taking on Queenstown's Shotover River Rafting
Posted by Manon from Everything New Zealand: 10 Feb 2025 @ 15:43:36 - Comments
Welcome back to "Local Lens," where our team members share their experiences of some of Queenstown’s best activities. I’m Manon, a locally-based activity consultant at Everything Queenstown, and I’m excited to take you on my white water rafting adventure on the Shotover River. Located just outside Queenstown, this adrenaline-pumping activity offers both spectacular scenery and exciting rapids, perfect for anyone looking to add a bit of excitement to their day. Read on for my personal take on this Queenstown summer must-do for thrill-seekers.

Taking on Queenstown's Shotover River Rafting
The day started with a scenic drive along the historic Skippers Road, known for its dramatic cliffs and remarkable views of the Shotover River below. Our guide filled the ride with interesting stories about the area’s history and geology, keeping us entertained on our journey to the launch site.
Upon reaching the riverbank, everyone was buzzing with excitement (and nerves!) as we geared up and received our safety briefing. The Shotover River, known for its Grade 3-5 rapids, promises a thrilling ride, so the guides take safety very seriously.
Once geared up, we were ready for action. Working together as a team, we navigated the rapids with plenty of direction from our guide, amid shouts and laughter! We conquered six rapids and tackled the 170-metre Oxenbridge Tunnel, which was a real thrill! The excitement came to a head with the Cascade Rapid, a fantastic finale.
White water rafting on the Shotover River is definitely a thrilling ride, but it's also your ticket to really getting out there and experiencing New Zealand’s great outdoors. I’d highly recommend this to anyone visiting Queenstown who loves adrenaline and adventure.

If you’re looking for a day filled with fun, thrills and scenic views, white water rafting in Queenstown is an excellent choice. Book your trip now and experience the excitement of the Shotover River for yourself.
This blog is part of our 'Local Lens' series, where the Everything Queenstown team share their personal experiences of Queenstown's activities.
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