Huka Falls River Cruise - Huka Falls River Cruise Aratiatia Road

 Family business since 2001

 Owner operators Dave and Ange Kilmister have lived in Taupo since 1995. The couple met in London on their big overseas adventure. When they returned to New Zealand and decided to visit some of New Zealand’s famous sight. They arrived in Taupo – where their car promptly broke down – and have been here ever since!

 With a passion for tourism and the natural environment, they jumped at the chance to buy Huka Falls River Cruise in 2001. Today, they have three daughters and our actively involved in the community.

 The business has grown to include more great drivers and guides, but the backbone is still rooted in family, love of place and sustaining the beauty of the natural environment. 

 Environment

The natural environment of Aratiatia Dam & Rapids, Huka Falls and the Waikato River is stunning and very important to the us. We see ourselves as kaitiaki or guardians of the environment for the next generations.

 Our purpose-built river boat was constructed with the environment in mind. The boat is powered by exceptionally clean burning 4-stroke motors that run high thrust propellers. These motors allow for quiet, smooth operation perfect for cruising. The boat’s hull has a very shallow draft and is made from super light aluminium. This means that the boat produces the smallest possible wake and has very little, if any, environmental impact on the riverbanks.

 Every year our staff hold a river clean up to collect any discarded rubbish along the banks of the river. We maintain the Aratiatia Dam & Rapids car park and ensure that it is clean and safe.

The team are actively involved in Greening Taupo planting days – a locally run regeneration programme to see more native plants growing. We also run a pest trapping programme with the goal of making Taupo predator free and helping increase native bird life in the area. This satisfying work has seen great results with the return of bird song to the banks of the river.

Community

Community is important to us. We feel privileged to work and live in Taupo and want to support our local community whenever we can.

Local’s Day is a chance for us to help fundraise for a good cause each year. All fares charged on that day go towards a worthy community cause. Past fundraisers have benefited local schools, sporting groups and sick children.