White Water Rafting & Jet Boat Experience on the Kawa River, New Zealand

Itinerary Reference:

Outbound: Meet at Visitor Centre, 88 Beach Street, Queenstown, 9300. Optional departure times: 09:00, 14:00 (please ensure you attend the activity at the time selected at booking). Please meet the staff 20 minutes before the start time for check‑in. Meeting point: Visitor Centre, address: 88 Beach Street, Queenstown, 9300. Please arrive 20 minutes before the departure time. No refunds for latecomers or no‑shows.

Attraction / Experience: 4 hours 30 minutes, Kawarau River Rafting

Return: Arrive back at Visitor Centre, 88 Beach Street, Queenstown, 9300, Optional return times: 13:30, 18:30 (depending on the departure time selected at booking and the duration of the itinerary)

Itinerary may be adjusted depending on traffic and weather conditions

Highlights

Combine two iconic water experiences ‑ jet boating and white‑water rafting

Enjoy a 30‑minute high‑speed jet boat ride with 360‑degree spins to the rafting starting point

Raft through the historic Kawarau Gorge, famous for its gold mines, wineries, and the Lord of the Rings film series

Paddle and swim through Grade 2‑3 white‑water rapids, with a new cliff jumping zone specially designed for thrill‑seekers

Complete your journey by tackling the famous 400‑metre Dog Leg Rapid, the longest commercially rafted rapid in New Zealand

Queenstown's adventurous spirit is hidden in every wave of the Kawarau River. Now, without compromise, perfectly combine the two most iconic experiences of this adventure capital to unlock your ultimate outdoor狂欢. Amidst pristine wilderness and rushing rapids, capture unforgettable moments on New Zealand's South Island.

The adventure begins with the roar of speeding engines as the Queenstown jet boat carries you across the Kawarau River, racing at 95 km/h, skimming close to the magnificent canyon cliffs. As the boat expertly performs its famous 360‑degree spins, the wind brings the crisp river spray to your face, your heartbeat synchronising with the flow of the water, leaving all your worries behind. The boat takes you directly to the rafting starting point, seamlessly connecting to the next surprise, heading towards the hidden rapids that boats cannot reach.

Jump on the raft, work alongside your team, and embark on the rafting journey through the Kawarau Gorge. This is the filming location of the River Anduin in The Lord of the Rings, and also a hidden gem rich in gold rush history and winery charm. Towering cliffs line both banks, lush with greenery, and every corner holds breathtaking scenery. Grip your paddle, navigate through Grade 2‑3 white‑water rapids, sometimes battling the waves, sometimes swimming in calmer waters. Adventure enthusiasts can even take on the new cliff jumping zone, leaping into the crystal‑clear river for an ultimate adrenaline rush.

The climax of the journey is conquering the longest commercially rafted rapid in New Zealand ‑ the 400‑metre Dog Leg Rapid. Amidst the surging currents, every paddle stroke is a challenge to yourself, and every wave is filled with adventurous passion. Professional guides accompany you throughout, using their extensive experience to balance safety and fun, allowing every explorer to fully immerse in the thrill of soaring adrenaline.

As the adventure concludes, return to the rafting base for a warm hot shower, washing away the fatigue, and reflecting on the excitement and beauty of the entire journey. This is a high‑octane double adventure, combining the boldness of speeding on a jet boat with the pleasure of riding waves on a raft, offering both the magnificent scenery of the Kawarau River and growth and memories through challenges. Head to the Kawarau River, let every heartbeat be etched with the mark of adventure, and make this dual experience the most brilliant chapter of your New Zealand trip.