The Rangitāiki River flows through the Bay of Plenty region of New Zealand's North Island, described as the longest river in that region. It offers a range of paddling experiences across its length, from technical whitewater to more accessible flatwater sections.

The most documented whitewater section runs above Murupara and is known for the rapid called Jeff's Joy. This stretch covers approximately 5.9 miles at Class III to IV difficulty, with a gradient of around 77 feet per mile in the upper portion and 67 feet per mile after a flat middle section. The put-in is accessed via a dirt road, and the shuttle runs approximately 10.5 km on dirt road, taking 15 to 20 minutes one way. The section holds water well after rain for a week or more, and a gauge reading of 5 at the put-in corresponds to a medium-low flow of roughly 25 cumecs, with 4 considered low and 6 described as high. The first significant rapid involves a congested but readable line running left to right, leading directly into Jeff's Joy, which has a notable curler at the bottom coming from river right. There are cement structures on the left bank as a landmark for locating this rapid. The section runs year-round.

Further downstream, a 5 km commercial river bug and rafting section operates roughly 50 minutes from Whakatāne, passing through rapids, canyon sections, and past waterfalls. This stretch is described as suitable for beginners while still offering engaging water.

Lake Aniwhenua, a shallow hydro lake on the river near Galatea, has a boat ramp and camping area accessible off Black Road. Small craft including kayaks can also be launched at the upstream end near Rabbit Bridge off Kopuriki Road. The lower river from Matahina Dam to the river mouth at Thornton includes a boat ramp at Thornton and is characterized as big water in the tidal zone near the coast.