Experience the Ultimate Half-Day Jet Boating Adventure in New Zealand
Get ready to embark on the most exhilarating half-day adventure in Aotearoa! Journey with us into the heart of Mount Aspiring National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage site known as Te Wāhipounamu – where glacier-fed rivers meet cinematic landscapes straight out of The Lord of the Rings.
Half day — allow 4 hours · Adult from $NZ359 · Child (4–14) $NZ229 · Runs year-round. Summer (1 October – 30 April): two departures daily, 9.45am and 12.45pm. Winter (May – September): one 12.45pm departure daily — advance booking essential.
Location: The Matukituki River – New Zealand’s Most Spectacular Jet Boating River
Carved by glaciers and framed by soaring peaks, the Matukituki River offers more than just jaw-dropping views – it’s the perfect stage for high-speed jet boating thrills. Skim across crystal-clear shallows, power through braided streams, drift around corners, and brace yourself for those famous jet spins that just might leave you smiling and soaked.
Pause in deep, tranquil pools to soak in the alpine serenity while your local guide shares rich stories of the land and its people.
But That’s Just the Beginning…
Your adventure continues with an hour-long guided wilderness walk deep into the mountains, far from the crowds — taken at a leisurely pace and suitable for all ages, and one of the better things to do in Wānaka with kids. Wander through ancient, moss-covered forests, along glacier-fed streams, and into the stunning McGills Creek. Along the way, learn about the region’s natural history and cultural heritage, and capture once-in-a-lifetime photos of this awe-inspiring ice-carved landscape.
Why Choose Us?
We’re the only jet boat company that takes you to the foothills of Mount Aspiring and its surrounding glaciers, an experience truly unique to Wanaka River Journeys. We’re also the only commercial jet boat on the Matukituki. Half day, $359 per adult, ages 4 and up, and more than 400 five-star reviews from the people who’ve done it. If you’re visiting Wanaka or coming over from Queenstown for the day, this is a must-do adventure you won’t forget.
Know Before You Go:
This is an adventure activity suitable for most. We operate in most weather conditions — as long as it’s going to be enjoyable. The valley turns properly dramatic in the mist, and if we do have to cancel, you’ll be rebooked or refunded in full. Check out our fitness guidelines and all the essentials by clicking below:
Choose your date on our secure booking page — nothing is charged until you confirm. Morning departures are the first to fill in summer. Departures (winter): 12:45pm from outside the Wanaka i-SITE Departures (From 1 October): 9:45am & 12:45pm from outside the Wanaka i-SITE Schedule
Allow 4 hours
Wow! Just Wow! An 11 on a scale of 10!
A perfect (mild) adventure thanks to perfect Wanaka weather, the professional organization, and our friendly and consi...
We had a tremendous time! I was nervous about the rapids on the river as I had never done real rafting before but the instruction from Mia and Kaylee and their ...
Superb day in a valley with incredible landscapes.
And for the record the sandwiches were very good.
