About Kaituna Rafting
Born on the river. Built for adventure.
[ ADD IMAGE: Sam Sutton or team on the Kaituna River ]
OUR STORY
Our Story
Kaituna Rafting (operating as Rotorua Rafting) was founded in 2011 by Sam Sutton — a four-time Extreme Kayaking World Champion who grew up right here in Ōkere Falls.
Sam didn’t start this to build an empire. He started it because he believed the Kaituna River deserved the best possible guide company — one where every single customer left completely stoked.
“Our goal is not to be the biggest raft company, nor is it to make the most money. Our goal is to love life, live life, and have the best damn time doing it.”
— Sam Sutton, Founder
Since 2011, we’ve run over 10,000 trips, planted tens of thousands of native trees, and earned recognition as the #1 experience in New Zealand on TripAdvisor.
THE FOUNDER
Sam Sutton — Founder & Head Guide
[ ADD IMAGE: Sam kayaking / portrait ]
Four-time Extreme Kayaking World Champion. Born and raised in Ōkere Falls. Started rafting in 2004 and hasn’t stopped since.
Sam has kayaked and rafted in over 20 countries, but keeps coming back to the Kaituna River — the river he grew up on, the river he knows better than anyone.
When he’s not on the water, he’s planting native trees along the riverbank, running school programs, and donating to local Rotorua sports teams and community groups.
The Kaituna River Specialists
Every guide at Kaituna Rafting is a specialist — not a generalist. They know the Kaituna River the way most people know their own street.
- ✅ NZ Grade 4/5 certified river instructor (highest international level)
- ✅ Trained in backcountry rescue and first aid
- ✅ Kaituna River specialists — not just general guides
- ✅ Hand-picked for character, not just qualifications
🌊
Expert on Water
Safety and technique are non-negotiable. Your life is in our hands and we take that seriously.
🌿
Guardians of the River
We protect the Kaituna River and its native ecosystems every single day.
❤️
Community First
$19,000+ donated to local Rotorua sports teams and schools every year.
Awards & Recognition
| 🏆 | TripAdvisor Travellers Choice Award | 2019 – 2024 |
| 🥇 | #1 Experience in New Zealand | TripAdvisor |
| 🌏 | Top 10 Experiences Worldwide | TripAdvisor |
| 🌿 | EKOS Carbon Positive Certified | 2021 |
| 🎖️ | Qualmark Gold Award | Tourism NZ |
| 🏅 | Rotorua Business Awards — Kaitiakitanga & Climate | Winner |