Grade 3 Rafting on the Tongariro: Blue Ducks, Volcanic Cliffs and Enormous Trout

Grade 3 water on the Tongariro River, which is the level where the rapids are genuinely rapids and a first-timer can still handle them. No previous rafting is needed. Between the rapids the river runs through the Great Lake Taupō country: pine forest, native bush, and cliffs of volcanic rock rising off the banks. Two things living here are worth watching for. Whio, the blue duck, is endangered and nests along these banks, so a sighting is a real one rather than a scheduled photo stop. And the trout underneath the raft are the size New Zealand is known for, big enough that one has been known to take a mouse off the surface. The base is The Rafting Centre on Atirau Road in Turangi, with plenty of street parking. Be there fifteen minutes before the trip leaves. Cancel at least 24 hours before departure for a full refund.