Waikato River Jet Boat Ride from Taupo

Overview

Available languages

English

35 minutes

Mobile ticket

Enjoy a 35 minute Jet Boat ride on the Waikato River. The high-speed ride is guaranteed to get your adrenaline pumping. Shoot through canyons, spin on crystal clear waters and surf the foaming tail of the awesome Nga Awapurua Rapids. You have several tour times to choose from throughout the day and can be shared with maximum 11 people per boat.

Additional Info

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Service animals allowed

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Minimum age is 5 years or 1 meter tall

Family Pass includes 2 Adults and 2 Children

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What To Expect

Shoot through a narrow canyon, be exhilarated by spins on crystal clear waters, spot a trout and surf the pressure waves of the awesome Nga Awa Purua rapids. Take time to view the amazing surrounds of Aratiatia Scenic Reserve, and learn about the wildlife and history of the area. Our 35 minute blast guarantees an adrenaline rush!

What‘s Included

Parking and Bathroom Facilities Available

All taxes, fees and handling charges

Fitted Life Jackets provided

Experienced Professional Guide

Souvenir photos (for purchase for NZ$45)

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Options

Waikato River Jet Boat Ride

Option 1: 35min Jet boat experience. Speeding off at 80km/h you will encounter two sets of fantastic white water Rapids. These will show you the narrowest part of the Waikato River.

Reviews

4.93

1,423 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

1340

Fantastic
NorthStar17839474829,,Dec 29, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
We had an absolute blast with Taupō Rapid Jets! From start to finish, the experience was thrilling, fun, and extremely well run. The jet boat ride was fast, exciting, and full of adrenaline, with plenty of spins that had everyone laughing. Our driver Taylah was very friendly, and made us feel safe the entire time while keeping the energy high and the experience entertaining. She shared interesting information about the river and surrounding area, which was a great bonus. This is a must-do activity when visiting Taupō.
Good family
454brettt,,Dec 29, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
The staff are lovely and fully committed to giving a first class experience. I got lost trying to find them on foot, and they came and picked me up. The ride was exhilarating and we still had fun despite terrible weather.
thrilling family adventure
sheyd2015,,Dec 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Such a fun and thrilling family adventure! Super exciting and was appropriate for both our 8 year old and 73 year old family members. Everyone said it was our favorite activity we did on our trip!
Thrilling family fun
Shey D,,Dec 28, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
This was one of the best experiences we had on our vacation! We had an 8 year old and 73 year olds with us and I was a bit nervous if it would be ok for them but it was great and we all had such a fun experience. Thrilling and crazy fun but also safe and professional.
Taupo Rapids Jet Boat Experience
Stulie1,,Dec 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
This trip was so much fun! We went with a large family group of varying ages and we all loved the speed/twists/turns! I would highly recommend this activity.
Rapids Jet ride
stephanielR5157CS,,Dec 26, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Awesome ride thanks! Something fun to do as a family. Kids loved it! Was cool to learn a few things about the Waikato river we didn’t know.
Great time n the river!
Alfred G,,Dec 22, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
The whole crew work hard to make sure you have a great experience. Our boat driver Taylah was awesome!
Amazing trip for kids, teenagers and adults!!!
4Polina,,Dec 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
We had an amazing experience!!!! We went on a ride with Taylah and it was absolutely fantastic from start to finish! What impressed us most was how perfect this experience was for all ages. We had two girls aged 7 and 10 — they were not scared at all, had so much fun, and the 7-year-old was absolutely thrilled. At the same time, we also had two teenage boys, and they said it was really cool and definitely not boring for them either. The adults loved it just as much. The ride was exciting, the views were beautiful, and the stops along the way with interesting stories made it even more special. It’s great value for money and creates unforgettable memories. Highly recommended for families, teenagers, and adults alike — we would absolutely do it again!
Great fun 👍🏼
Voyage00535494702,,Dec 12, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Great fun, well organized ! In addition, you can get information about the Waikato River and the surrounding area. Highly recommended 👍🏼
Rapid Jets is truly an amazing experience!!! From start to finish !!!
D5889EZmatthews,,Dec 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Had the most amazing time with Rapid Jets Taupo !!! Shannon was the best and he didn't miss a beat !! Learnt so much about the Waikato River and the movies made on this stretch which we had all to ourselves !! Highly recommended!!