Available languages
1 hour 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Combines helicopter flight and jet boat safari in one experience
Scenic flight over the Southern Alps and the braided Waimakariri River
High-speed jet boat ride through Waimakariri Gorge
Departs directly from Christchurch
Perfect half-day Canterbury adventure
Perfect day shore excursion for cruise ship passengers
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Children 2 to 15 years of age must be accompanied by an adult
A minimum of 2 people per booking is required for trip to depart, otherwise it will be cancelled
Please wear a Jacket, Hat, Gloves, Sunglasses and Sunscreen - Warm Clothing
Carry any medication that you may need.
Departure times & experience itineraries can often be scheduled to suit personal requirements
Weather dependent - We may cancel if the river is not suitable for the jet boat
Weather dependent - We may cancel if the weather is not suitable for the helicopter to operate.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Canterbury Region
Lift off from our Christchurch base, heading west toward the dramatic Southern Alps. Flying over the shimmering braided shallows of the mighty Waimakariri River, following the river’s winding path into the spectacular Waimakariri Gorge. Towering cliff faces rise sharply on either side, and waterfalls tumble from ancient rock walls to meet the turquoise waters below.
Waimakariri River
Touch down at the Helijet Adventure Park base, where your jet boat awaits. Then it’s time to ignite the adrenaline. Skim at high speed across crystal-clear alpine waters, power through narrow canyon corridors, and experience exhilarating Hamilton turns that send fans of spray across the river’s surface. Feel the raw energy of the river as Your expert driver navigates tight braids and sweeping bends beneath the rugged peaks of the Southern Alps. This 30-minute adventure safari blends heart-racing excitement with breathtaking alpine scenery, a sensory experience as much as an adrenaline rush.
Professional Jet Boat driver and licensed pilot
Included in tour
Food and drinks
Helicopter and Jet Boat: Helicopter type used will be at discretion of Garden City Helicopters Jet Boat operated by Alpine Jet Thrills
3 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Erica B,,Feb 17, 2024
- Review from Viator
Felt like a rockstar getting choppered into the boats 😂 Beautiful seeing Christchurch from the sky The river is so clear and beautiful Would definitely do it again ❤️
melbU2208TT,,Apr 10, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
This was a special birthday gift. The trip had to be altered as the jet boat company had no drivers at the shallows area. This gave us a longer helicopter flight to a different location a lot higher up the Waimakariri river (which we had done about 2 months before). The scenery from the helicopter was stunning and the extended flight time gave us a better view of this beautiful country. The jet boat trip, though we'd done it previously, was again awesome. The river had changed so much in just 2 months. The raw natural beauty of the river and surrounding rock formations is a must see.
Fdegrave,,Mar 29, 2023
- Review from Viator
loved the helicopter ride to the jet boat....Jet boat goes fast and loved the spins....This company was so professional and on time..They took care of every detail....
Operated by Garden City Helicopters