Queenstown Kawarau River Rafting and Jet Boat
Overview
Available languages
4 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Combining two of Queenstown's most iconic activities, this trip is second to none! Starting on the Queenstown Jet Boat, you'll get to experience those famous 360 degree spins and speed. Discover the Kawarau River and its pristine wilderness as we race you down the river to your next mode of transport. Then jump straight into a raft to complete the last section of river, where the Jet Boats fear to go. Spend your morning or afternoon paddling through the historic Kawarau gorge, famous for its gold mining, wineries and it’s stint in The Lord of the Rings franchise.
Paddle and swim your way through grade 2-3 whitewater rapids with a brand new cliff jumping section added for the adventure junkies (optional). Complete your journey by tackling the famous 400m Dog Leg rapid – the longest commercially rafted rapid in New Zealand. Then head back to Rafting Base for a hot shower.
Additional Info
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
Must be able to swim
Rafting while pregnant is prohibited
Rafting with any heart condition is prohibited
Minimum weight 40kg
Maximum weight 120kg
Minimum age is 13 years. Children aged between 13 and 15 years must be accompanied by a guardian
All travellers between the age of 16 and 17 years require a waiver to be signed by a guardian if they are unaccompanied
You must bring a swimsuit and towel
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Jet Boat ride to the rafting put-in point
Use of hot showers
Wetsuit, rafting clothing and all other equipment provided
Extensive safety instructions and paddling techniques
Food and drinks
What To Expect
First your jet boat will race down the river to your next mode of transport, packing in those famous 360 spins and dramatic canyon walls as you discover the Kawarau River and it's pristine wilderness. After 30 mins jump straight into a raft to complete the last section of the river. Raft through grade 2-3 rapids, take in the beautiful views, choose to join in on the optional rock jumping section for added fun (1hr raft time) Please note for safety we have minimum weight restriction of 40 kg and maximum weight of 120 kg to participate.
Options
Kawarau Jet to Raft
2 Iconic Activities: Pair two of Queenstown's most iconic activities. Jet Boat and grade 2-3 whitewater rafting experience on the Kawarau River
Reviews
145 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great day on the river!!!
Fred S,
Mar 19, 2025
- Viator
5.00What a great day!! The guides were incredibly friendly and knowledgeable and fun. We started with an amazing jet boat ride on the river and then fun white water rafting. Everyone on staff was super helpful and friendly
The jet boating was fun,...
anne f,
Mar 15, 2025
- Viator
5.00The jet boating was fun, not scary fun though! The rafting was very enjoyable but because the water level was low the rapids were smallish. The guides did a good job making it fun anyway
Awesome!
AnnieBluhm,
Mar 13, 2025
- Viator
5.00The speed boat was lots of fun - high energy and unique. Rafting was also a blast, manageable rapids, always felt safe. Guides were super friendly and knowledgeable. Highly recommend Gabe! Would absolutely book again.
Beautiful Views and Fun Rafting!
Leigh K,
Mar 6, 2025
- Viator
5.00We really enjoyed this experience! The river was beautiful and they took some great photos (which was great since we didn't have cameras on the boat). We were outfitted with wetsuits and got the opportunity to jump in and swim in a few places and then do the cliff jumping. A beautiful day and lots of fun. We'd only been river rafting once before but they told us what we needed to know and it was a pretty easy raft ride! Definitely recommend!
The most fun!
Chiara B,
Feb 24, 2025
- Viator
5.00We had the best time in the sunshine with our guides. They are knowledgeable and kept spirits high, always making sure everyone felt comfortable and safe. Can’t recommend enough!
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Operated by RealNZ