Grade 4/5 Raft Guide (Senior Level Preferred)
Grade 4/5 Raft Guide (Senior Level Preferred)
Job Description:
Job Title: Senior Grade 4/5 Raft Guide Location: Rotorua, Bay of Plenty, New Zealand Employer: Rotorua Rafting Ltd (Accredited Employer) Pay Rate: NZD $35.00 per hour Minimum Hours: 30 hours per week Employment Type: Full-time (Seasonal or Permanent, depending on applicant availability) About the Role Rotorua Rafting is seeking experienced Senior Grade 4/5 Raft Guides to join our team on the iconic Kaituna River, home to the world’s highest commercially rafted waterfall. You will be responsible for leading commercial rafting trips, ensuring guest safety, and delivering unforgettable outdoor adventure experiences. This position is ideal for professional whitewater guides looking to work in a high-energy environment with a strong focus on safety, cultural connection, and environmental care. Key Responsibilities Lead Grade 4 and 5 whitewater rafting trips on the Kaituna River and other regional rivers Deliver comprehensive safety briefings and emergency procedures to clients Maintain safety of guests and staff throughout the duration of each trip Conduct pre-trip equipment checks and assist with ongoing maintenance of rafting gear Ensure all trips operate in line with Rotorua Rafting’s Safety Management System (SMS) Educate guests about the river’s cultural significance, natural features, and safety protocols Support conservation initiatives in line with our kaitiakitanga values Minimum Requirements (Must-Have for AEWV) NZRA Grade 4/5 Raft Guide Certificate (or international equivalent with New Zealand recognition) Minimum of 4 years commercial Grade 4/5 rafting experience Current First Aid Certificate (NZQA Unit Standard 6401 & 6402 or equivalent) Swiftwater Rescue Certification or equivalent Physically fit with strong swimming skills Excellent communication and customer service skills Proven ability to operate safely and independently in dynamic outdoor environments Desirable Skills Trip Leader experience Multilingual abilities Understanding of Tikanga Māori or prior experience working with iwi Experience mentoring junior guides AEWV Information Rotorua Rafting is an Accredited Employer with Immigration New Zealand This job meets AEWV criteria: Pay rate is NZD $35.00/hour, above the AEWV median wage threshold Minimum of 30 guaranteed hours per week Full-time permanent or seasonal employment available Employer is committed to fair employment practices and compliance with New Zealand employment law How to Apply Please email your CV, cover letter, and qualifications to [email protected] with the subject line: Senior Raft Guide Application
