Available languages
1 hour 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Experience one of New Zealand’s most iconic adventure activities in some of the world greatest scenery. Picture yourself skimming across shallow water, over sand bars, through rapids and around rocks at speeds in excess of 80 kph, now picture doing this down New Zealand’s swiftest river with no seat belt and no brakes; that’s one way to get your adrenaline levels through the roof. Our trip makes the best of blood pumping adrenaline along with some of the world’s best scenery in the background.
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Minimum age is 4 years
Please allow 1.5 hours for trip
Please check in 15 min prior to your jet boat departure time
Please Note we require a minimum of 4 passengers to run a trip, if you are booking as a single passenger please call to check availability
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Ride with Lakeland Wanaka and experience the water like you never have before. We take you on a thrilling 60 minute high speed Jet boat ride; departing from Wanaka’s waterfront enjoy a short jaunt across the lake taking in unsurpassed snow-capped mountain views, as we prepare to enter one of the world’s swiftest flowing rivers, the Clutha River. Here your expert driver will raise your excitement demonstrating the manoeuvrability of the jet boat pushing it to its absolute limits; skilfully navigating through shallow water, tunnels and over giant pressure waves, speeding past trees mere inches from your face disappearing in your peripheral vision. Picture yourself skimming across shallow water, over sand bars, through rapids and around rocks at speeds in excess of 80kph; and of course, a jet boat ride wouldn’t be complete without the iconic Hamilton Spin! A high-speed manoeuvre causing the boat to spin rapidly on the spot creating G forces you just can’t get enough of. This is an adventure for most so come and experience the iconic NZ Jet boat right in the heart of Wanaka.
Jet Boat Ride
Combo Options on site
Guide Commentary - history and water ecosystems
Life Jacket
Food and drinks
Hotel pickup and drop-off
198 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
oliviercY7742HR,,Dec 16, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
We had an incredible time on the jet boat tour, and Matt was an absolute legend of a captain. From the moment we got on board, he made us feel safe, relaxed, and excited for the ride. His driving skills were impressive, the spins were epic, and he knew exactly where and when to push the thrill level while keeping everything under control.
akmk2017,,Dec 13, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
We had great Jet boat adventure with Matt. He is an awesome professional with excellent skills to take your adventurous journey to another level. He is local and knows specific needs for the clients.
501gradyw,,Dec 11, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
1 hour Jet boat ride was thrilling! It was a lot of fun to be able to go out on the river especially when it was so high. There were five riders plus Matt, the driver and guide! Small group was nice to try to get to know each other a little bit, especially since I’m traveling solo. Well worth the money in my opinion!
Quest44126593286,,Dec 11, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Kai Whaka Pai team had a very enjoyable time with captain Matt & his insight into the area!! Yeeehaw, highly recommend!!

Yvelle288,,Dec 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Amber was an amazing skipper! Our family had an amazing experience - the ride was such a thrill, the scenery breathtaking, and we learnt a lot about the lake. Thank you for the amazing experience and this is a definite must-try!

Navigator07804357906,,Dec 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
This was fantastic. Great views. Matt was incredible, we came for the boat and stayed for Matt’s cheeky looks after spins.

lyndak360,,Dec 2, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Great price and overall worth it. The hour was a perfect amount of time and not a crowded boat. We got the boat to ourselves which was awesome. Our boat driver Matt created an even better experience, being kind and informative.
k8mckenna,,Nov 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
What a fantastic trip. We booked on line easily for the time and date we wanted. Easy to locate and friendly and helpful staff What an exhilarating ride down the river with Amber as our captain/driver She was knowledgeable and an amazing driver Loved our trip and would recommend to anyone considering booking Great pictures and videos that we managed to capture too
michaellJ7517IY,,Nov 26, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Great trip with the family. Thanks for the trip Matt. Good way to experience exploring the top of the Clutha River. Thanks team!
355teigank,,Nov 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
The amount of knowledge that our driver amber had about the lake was amazing. We couldn’t believe how good of a driver she was. We had a blast!
Operated by LakeLand Wanaka