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Funyaks in Queenstown: A different way to experience the river

Queenstown is famous for high-octane river adventures, but not every experience is about maximum speed or big rapids. Funyaks offer a more immersive way to explore the region’s wild rivers, combining a thrilling jet boat ride into remote wilderness with a calm, guided paddle back downstream in inflatable canoes. This guide explains what Funyaks are, how the experience works, and more, so you can decide if this unique Queenstown river adventure matches your pace, interests, and travel style.

What are Funyaks?

Funyaks are stable, inflatable canoes used on calm river sections, designed for easy paddling and drifting. In Queenstown, the Funyaks experience combines a thrilling jet boat ride deep into the Dart River wilderness with a relaxed, guided paddle back downstream, allowing you to explore braided river channels, forested valleys, and alpine scenery at a slower, more immersive pace. No prior paddling experience is needed, making Funyaks suitable for beginners and families.

What to expect during your Funyak ride?

Jet boat ride in

Start with a thrilling jet boat ride through the Dart River, travelling deep into Mount Aspiring National Park while enjoying scenic commentary along the way.

Wilderness stop

Step off the boat for a short walk and briefing in the forest, giving you time to take in the surroundings before the Funyak ride begins.

Funyak paddle

Climb into your inflatable Funyak and paddle or drift downstream on calm river sections, exploring quiet channels at a relaxed pace.

Riverside lunch

Take a break beside the river for a picnic lunch, surrounded by alpine views and native forest.

Scenic return

Finish the day with a scenic return journey back to Glenorchy or Queenstown, rounding off a full-day river adventure.

What does your funyak experience include?

Jet boat on Dart River with tourists enjoying Funyak adventure in New Zealand.
  • Price: NZD $429
  • Duration: 6.5–9 hours (full-day activity)
  • What’s included: Guided Funyaks canoe experience on the Dart River, exhilarating jet boat ride into Mount Aspiring National Park, picnic-style lunch, beverages (soft drinks, tea, and coffee), expert local guide, and all essential safety gear including life jackets and dry bags.
  • Upgrade: Round-trip transfers from Queenstown (available on selected options)
  • Best for: Travellers looking for a full-day wilderness experience that combines jet boat thrills with relaxed, scenic river paddling.

Funyak vs. jetboating vs. whitewater rafting: Which adventure is right for you?

FeatureFunyaksJet boatingWhitewater Rafting

Type of experience

Jet boat in + guided inflatable canoe paddle out

High-speed motorised river ride

Paddle-powered rafting through rapids

Thrill level

Moderate (balanced adventure)

High (speed, spins, tight turns)

High to very high (rapids & splashes)

Pace

Relaxed and unhurried

Fast and action-packed

Fast with intense sections

Physical effort

Low to moderate

Very low

Moderate to high

Skill required

None (beginner-friendly)

None

None, but teamwork required

Scenery focus

Very high (slow, immersive)

Medium (views at speed)

Medium (rapids-focused)

Water conditions

Calm, braided river channels

Shallow, fast-flowing rivers

Whitewater rapids

Typical duration

Full day (6.5–9 hrs)

Short ride (20–60 mins)

Half to full day

Minimum age

From 5 years

From 5–8 years (varies)

Usually 13+

Best for

Nature lovers, families, mixed groups

Adrenaline seekers, short stays

Thrill seekers wanting hands-on action

Key safety tips for your funyak adventure

  • Wear your safety gear: Life jackets, wetsuits, boots, and spray jackets are provided and must be worn at all times.

  • Follow your guide’s instructions: Guides are trained to keep you safe and will show you how to paddle and enter/exit the Funyak properly.

  • Paddle at your own pace: Most of the river is calm, so you can drift or paddle gently while staying with your group.

  • Stay aware of the river: Even calm rivers can have currents and shallow sections; always listen to your guide.

  • Health & mobility considerations: Funyaks is beginner-friendly, but participants with severe mobility or medical issues should consult guides beforehand.

Views you’ll see from your funyak

Mount Aspiring National Park landscape, filming location for Lord of the Rings tour, New Zealand.

Mount Aspiring National Park

Take in dramatic alpine landscapes, snow-capped peaks, and native beech forests along the riverbanks.

Funyaks on Dart River with mountain backdrop in New Zealand.
Jet boat on Dart River with mountains in the background, New Zealand.
Mount Earnslaw with lush green hills and blue lake in New Zealand.
Man holding a large rock by the Dart River during a Funyak tour in New Zealand.

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Frequently asked questions about funyaks in Queenstown

Funyaks are stable, inflatable canoes designed for easy paddling and drifting. In Queenstown, the experience combines a jet boat ride into the Dart River wilderness with a guided downstream paddle in these Funyaks.