New Zealand · JET BOAT RIDES
The Shotover canyons are the famous ride, but the Dart, the Waikato and Fiordland all run their own. These 15 differ on canyon walls, river length and how many spins you get, priced from $65 and rarely longer than an hour.
Speed through the Shotover River canyon in a small-group jet boat, with 360 spins, rapids, and guided stories, from Queenstown.
“SO FUN, you don’t get as wet as you’d think but you definitely get sprayed. Loved every minute of it”
One hour of high-speed jet boating from Queenstown, racing Lake Wakatipu then up the Shotover and Kawarau Rivers with 360 spins.
“this was a thrilling experience where our guide made many 360 spins that is quite heart stopping yet safe. we had so much fun and also got to sight see the area. never a dull moment...”
Taupo’s Rapids Jet Waikato River jet boat ride hits Nga Awapurua rapids, spins on clear water, and runs about 35 minutes.
“Having compared 2 companies on Viator, we went with this company as there were more reviews and great comments. It is slightly down river than the other company, which (apparently) is more commercial and doesn’t go to the Huka Falls. We benefited from the small business enthusiasm and dedication to giving us the best experience possible! Jacob, our guide and driver, was knowledgeable and skilful. He stopped and gave us information about the river and area but also filled our time with exhilaration and fun! There have been several films shot along this stretch of the river, which we will be looking out for. We all had a brilliant time…”
Shotover River extreme jet boat from Queenstown: a 25-minute white-water rush with 360 spins, up to 90 km/h, and optional shuttle.
“It was a super fun experience in a beautiful canyon with a friendly guide.”
A 30 minute jet boat to Huka Falls with water level access, up to 80 km/h speed, and 360 spins, plus heated handrails.
“One of the best things I’ve done in New Zealand! Absolutely amazing time in the Jet Boat and Huka Falls was breathtaking.”
Skippers Canyon Road drive plus a fast Shotover River jet boat, with gold-mining history, photo stops, and adrenaline 3-hour return from Queenstown.
“Boat ride was awesome and our guide Tom on the bus was great!”
Jet-boat speed on the Upper Waiau River, Lord of the Rings film stops, and Lake Manapouri silence, plus a short Fiordland nature walk.
“From the very start this experience was top notch! Chris called us to check if we wanted to reschedule our time based on rain that was moving in. He was so thoughtful and offered to take us whatever we decided. We arrived and Lindy was Read more”
Hold on for Hukafalls Jet Boat thrills in Taupo. 360 spins, trick turns, power brakes, and an up-close view of Huka Falls.
“You get wet, the driver was fun, Huka was 30% but that’s OK, got up close and personal. Oh and did I mention, you get wet.”
Ride fast on Queenstown waters with KJet, 1 hour across Lake Wakatipu, Kawarau, and Shotover, with spins, views, and spray.
“Too many people squashed into boat. A row that should seat 5 had 6 squashed in. Given the price of this experience it was a little disappointing to be sitting awkwardly. The driver and the boat trip was fun, amazing the turns and spins the boat can make.”
Thrilling jet boat on the Dart River plus Glenorchy and Mt Aspiring scenery, with life jacket gear and naturalist guide.
“Best Jet Boat Ever Location spectacular Guide Jimmy was terrific. Well run company, trip worth every penny”
Jet boat rush and funyak paddling on the Dart River from Queenstown. Mt Aspiring views, Middle-earth film spots, and a riverside picnic.
“It was a bit of hard work paddling when we got stuck in the shallows but the rest of the time was amazing with beautiful views all the way”
Small-group jet boat on the Clutha River from Wanaka, with live history commentary, 360 spins, camera stops, and a handy Albert Town transfer.
“Pat was a very skilled and knowledgeable pilot and we had a great time while learning some 'fun facts' about the Clutha and surrounds. Would absolutely highly recommend this to anyone up for an adrenaline rush. Thanks to Pat, Tracey and Gabi for making our time with Go Jets Wanaka full of fun and lots of smiles in a spectacular part of NZ.”
Jet boat spins on the Matukituki River, then a guided walk in Mount Aspiring National Park from Wanaka in about 4 hours.
“Perfect mix of jet boat and stunning scenery. James was an excellent host. What an amazing way to access otherwise inaccessible places.”
Jet boat thrills on Wanaka and the Clutha River with live eco stories, Hamilton Spin, and a small-group ride from the lakefront.
“We did this boat trip today & because the lake was rough we drove with the boat 1ins up the road to get onto the river. Matt was brilliant, he drove the boat very competently and shared his local knowledge at relevant points along the trip. We rode close to the trees and did several Hamilton turns as well as riding fast over rapids and along the river. There were only 4 of us on the trip but we were made to feel very safe and welcome. I would highly recommend this boat trip to anyone staying in Wanaka.”
Adrenal canyon jet boating on the Wairau River near Hanmer Springs, with live commentary, 360 spins, and free onboard photos.
“It was absolutely amazing! Although i thought the booking was for 2 hours as that is what it stated it was in fact only an hour.”
From the fiords to the geothermal belt, sorted by what you want to do with the day.
