Exploring the Rivers of Queenstown: Shotover River and Kawarau River Jet Boat Ride

If you are planning a trip to Queenstown and want to get up close and personal with the rivers that provide some of the best scenery in New Zealand, don’t forget to check out a Shotover River and/or Kawarau River jet boat ride. Both of these jets provide visitors with a thrilling, high-octane experience full of wildlife, stunning scenery, and dramatic adventure.

What Is a Jet Boat Ride?

Jet boat rides are an adrenaline-pumping, high-speed form of boating. Experienced boat operators pilot the high-powered boats at incredibly fast speeds, skimming along the rippling rivers as they wind their way through iconic canyons and around towering cliffs. The powerful jets expel a mighty rush of water off the hull of the Craft, creating an amazing sight! Jet boat rides are popular throughout New Zealand, but especially in the cities of Queenstown and Rotorua.

The Kawarau River Jet Boat Ride

The Kawarau River is the longest river in Otago. It is 60 kilometres long starting from the Mavora Lakes north of Te Anau flowing north through Cromwell Gorge and then out into Lake Dunstan. Jet boating on the Kawarau River is a unique and exciting way to explore the area, as you get up close to the spectacular landscape around you. The ride is generally a 45-minute adventure involving sharp turns, fish wheel spins, tight zig-zags, and of course some high speeds! The operators also provide you with interesting facts about the local wildlife and fascinating stories about the area’s gold rush history. Depending on weather conditions, you might even get to witness some water falls that cascade in from above.

The Shotover River Jet Boat Ride

The Shotover River is the second longest river in Otago. The river starts near Coronet Peak and flows through Kawarau Gorge before turning into Lake Wakatipu. Jet boating on the Shotover River is an exhilarating experience as it is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, whitewater rapids, spectacular canyons, and 360-degree spins. The experienced driver will take you on a wild ride while they provide you with a rundown of its rich history, flora, and fauna. This ride is filled with adventure and speed as your jet boat speeds along this historic river. The tour usually starts at Deep Bay, from where the jet boat will slowly make its way upstream against the current before deepening its speed and navigating through the canyon walls. This journey is filled with plenty of 360-degree spins and you’ll get to see some of New Zealand’s most stunning landscapes during your boat ride.

Things to Keep In Mind Before Taking a Ride

There are a few things that you need to keep in mind before embarking on either of these thrilling jet boat rides:

• Make sure to wear sun protection such as hats, sunscreen, and UV protective clothing. This can help protect your skin from the powerful rays of the sun.
• Make sure to bring a jacket or scarf to keep warm during your boat ride. Even though many jet boats provide blankets, they may not be enough to keep you warm.
• Do not forget your sunglasses! The reflection of the sun hitting off the water of either of these Rivers can be quite powerful.
• Be sure that all of your belongings are securely stored before taking a ride. Since these boats fly across rivers at such high speeds, items can easily fly away if not properly secured.
• Make sure that your camera is waterproof or properly prepared before attempting a jet boat ride. The vessels usually come with rain covers, but if your camera isn’t waterproof it might break!

Conclusion

Taking a jet boat ride on either the Kawarau or Shotover Rivers in Queenstown is an unforgettable experience and one that you won’t soon forget. You’ll get to witness some of New Zealand’s most beautiful scenery at lightning speed and explore some of its most incredible wildlife in its natural environment. But be sure to keep these tips in mind before taking a ride, so that you can make the most out of your experience! That way you can capture memories that will last a lifetime! If you now want to book this tour yourself after reading this guide then follow through this link.

The Insider’s Guide to Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown is a picturesque city located in the South Island of New Zealand, nestled beside the breathtaking Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by the majestic Southern Alps. It is a popular tourist destination site, known for its outdoor adventure activities, but there is much more to this city than adrenaline rush experiences. Here is an insider’s guide to some of the hidden gems and unique experiences that will make your visit to Queenstown unforgettable:

Local Attractions

Most tourists know about the famous Shotover River and Kawarau River jet boat rides, but there are a few lesser-known local attractions worth exploring. One such attraction is the Skippers Canyon, a narrow and winding canyon with stunning views of the Shotover River. It is also an excellent place for gold-panning, with many gold nuggets found in the riverbed during the gold-rush era.

Another lesser-known spot is the Moke Lake, a serene and calm place for trout fishing, hiking, or simply capturing stunning photos of the surrounding mountains. The road to Moke Lake is unpaved and only accessible by 4-wheel drive vehicles, but it is worth the bumpy ride.

Dining Spots

Queenstown’s local cuisine is a fusion of flavors, influenced by different cultures and ethnicities. Fergburger is a Queenstown trademark and a must-visit for burger lovers. The burgers are enormous, juicy and packed with flavor, and worth the wait in the long queues.

For coffee, try out the Bespoke Kitchen, with locally roasted beans, vegan and gluten-free menu options, and a relaxing atmosphere. The restaurant is located right next to a small local produce market.

Cultural Experiences

Queenstown has a wealth of cultural experiences to immerse yourself into. Attend a Maori cultural show and learn about the traditions and customs of the indigenous people of New Zealand. The show includes traditional dances, songs, and a Haka (war dance) performance, which is truly exhilarating.

If you are into art, visit the Milford galleries, housing premier art collections from various artists, including sculptures, paintings, and woodwork. The gallery also hosts regular exhibitions and events, showcasing the best up and coming artists in the country.

Local History

Queenstown has a fascinating history, not just about the gold rushes, but also about the city’s role in shaping the aviation industry. Visit the Warbirds Museum and see the vintage aircraft models and learn about the city’s aviation contribution and advancement.

Alternatively, visit the Arrowtown Chinese Settlement, comprehensively curated with ample information about Chinese mining history and Chinese community life in the gold rush era.

Off-the-beaten-path suggestions

For a thrilling and unique experience, try out the canyoning adventure. It is a combination of hiking, rock sliding, zip-lining, and abseiling through canyons of waterfalls and pools. Most tour companies offer this experience and will provide all the necessary safety gear.

Also, hike the routeburn track, referred to as the most magnificent walk in New Zealand. The hike is a 32km track, crossing two national parks, through alpine lakes, waterfalls, and majestic mountain ranges. The best time to hike is between October to April.

In conclusion, Queenstown is full of surprises and hidden gems, a destination with diverse experiences and rich history. Take some time to explore the various attractions and off-the-beaten-path destinations on offer. You will create unforgettable memories and stories to share with your friends.