What is AAR?
Since October 2020, white water rafting has been under the Adventure Activities Regulations (AAR) 2016. Previously, rafting operations fell under Maritime New Zealand Rule Part 81.
The transition to AAR has been largely positive for operators. The framework brings broader health and safety policies to care for the operator, its staff, and clients. It aligns rafting with other adventure activities under a unified safety and audit system.
Endorsed Auditors
The following organisations are endorsed to audit rafting operations under the Adventure Activity Regulations:
AdventureMark
adventuremark.co.nzQualWorx
qualworx.nzResources
- Operators must be registered and audited under AAR to operate commercially
- Audits cover safety management systems, staff qualifications, equipment maintenance, and emergency procedures
- All guides must hold appropriate NZRA qualifications and current River Rescue certification
- Contact WorkSafe New Zealand for regulatory queries
Questions about AAR compliance for your operation?
Contact NZRA