RiverBug – the New Whitewater Adventure near Rotorua
Overview
• The 'Kiwi' invented Riverbug enables a safe and fun way for first-timers to enjoy whitewater in their own craft. Their small size and unique paddling system make riverbugs extremely manoeuvrable and easy to use
• Feedback from our guests tells us they loved the freedom and individuality of riverbugging. Some who had also tried rafting preferred their riverbug experience for these reasons
• Our group size is small compared to many other water based activities, enabling us to provide friendly personal service
• The Action Bug Tour is located 'off-the-beaten-track' and we are usually the only party on the river
• We are riverbug pioneers and experts with an exceptional safety record. Our highly trained guides will help you have a great time and look after you on the river
• Our equipment is top quality and rated to keep you warm and safe. We pride ourselves on providing the comfort and fit of Women's, Mens, and Youth wet
What's Included
- • Wetsuit: Women's, Mens and Youth sizing • Neoprene Bootie • Swim Vest • Helmet • Paddling gloves • Flippers • Riverbug
Meeting Location
71 Black Road
Galatea 3079, New Zealand
Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
What To Expect
Experience the thrill of whitewater and learn about Māori culture on the spectacular Rangitāiki River near Rotorua. Aboard a funky Riverbug single person inflatable and equipped with webbed gloves and short blade flippers as your paddles, you'll 'Feel the Flow' as you splash through fun, exciting Grade 2 rapids in a remote Gorge – learning about the local stories along way.
The tour meets at Lake Aniwhenua with a mihi (Māori greeting) to introduce the guides and guests. After changing into wetsuits and safety equipment we launch our riverbugs into the pool below the impressive Aniwhenua Falls for paddling and safety drill, then it's off down river for the whitewater action!
Ride the rapids, learn some tricks, relaxing between rapids to marvel at the rugged beauty and remoteness of the gorge. Drifting past waterfalls cascading over lush moss clad rock walls we connect with nature from the unique riverbug perspective.
After an amazing 5 km stretch of river our driver meets us at the take out below the gorge for the shuttle back to Lake Aniwhenua.
• Riverbug.NZ is a licensed Adventure Activity Operator with an excellent safety record.
• We have top equipment and expert guides
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 16 travelers
Frequently Asked Questions (9)
Q: Will I get seasick on RiverBug – the New Whitewater Adventure near Rotorua?
Cancellation Policy
Still have questions?
We're here to help.
Activity code: C-235983P1
Traveler Photos
Reviews
Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 2 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor
Additional Info
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Frequently Asked Questions (9)
The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Cool Shore Excursions customers.
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If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy.
Feb 2023- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
- Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (NZDT).
- This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- • Wetsuit: Women's, Mens and Youth sizing • Neoprene Bootie • Swim Vest • Helmet • Paddling gloves • Flippers • Riverbug.
This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Apr 2025The minimum age to participate is 10..
Apr 2025If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.
If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.
Apr 2025Accessibility information for the RiverBug – the New Whitewater Adventure near Rotorua is as follows:
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for RiverBug – the New Whitewater Adventure near Rotorua will be included in your confirmation email from Cool Shore Excursions. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!
Mar 2024Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.
Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.
If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.
Oct 2026What's Included
- • Wetsuit: Women's, Mens and Youth sizing • Neoprene Bootie • Swim Vest • Helmet • Paddling gloves • Flippers • Riverbug
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 16 travelers
