Arahura River

The Arahura River holds deep spiritual importance for Māori as a primary source of pounamu (greenstone), a treasured stone used for tools, ornaments, and carvings. The river's bed and banks contain deposits of this nephrite jade, which is considered a taonga (treasure). Visitors can walk along the river, but collecting pounamu is restricted to certain areas and requires a permit from local iwi (tribes). The river's clear waters flow through a forested valley, offering a serene setting to appreciate Māori culture and the natural origin of greenstone. Interpretive signs explain the river's significance.

Don't miss

• Learn about pounamu's cultural importance to Māori at interpretive signs
• Scenic walk along the river through native forest
• Permitted pounamu collecting areas (check with local iwi for regulations)

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Arahura River

Cheapest way in2-Hour Waikato River Guided Kayak Trip from Taupo4.9★ · 173 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$54 per personSee dates →Most bookedRotorua Rafting: Kaituna River White Water Rafting & Free Sauna5★ · 2,123 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$81 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleArthurs Pass Private Day Trip from Christchurch with Castle Hill4.6★ · 24 travelers~8 hoursFree cancellationFrom$191 per personSee dates →

Getting there