Book Queenstown Rafting Tours & Tickets

Queenstown’s most challenging rafting adventure through grade 3–5 rapids on the Shotover River.

• Everything you get: Shuttle transfers from Queenstown, a winding journey through the cliff-edge tracks of Skippers Canyon, seasoned rafting experts, safety briefing, and hot showers afterwards. Plus, the legendary Oxenbridge Tunnel run.
• Why choose this: Navigate twisting, narrow gorges and blast through the 170-meter-long Oxenbridge Tunnel, a symbol of New Zealand's gold mining history.

Inclusions #

• 2-hour rafting on the Shotover River

• Professional rafting guides

• Round-trip bus transfer between Queenstown and the rafting base

• All rafting and safety equipment including wetsuit and helmet

• Use of hot showers

What to bring

• Bring a swimsuit and towel for use after your rafting experience.
• Bring a valid photo ID if you are under 18, as proof of age may be required.
• Bring only essential personal items; lockers are available at the Rafting Base for storage.

What’s not allowed

• Cameras, GoPros, and other recording devices are not allowed on the raft for health and safety reasons.
• Personal clothing for rafting is not permitted; all necessary gear will be provided.
• Spectators are not allowed on the river due to the remote location and terrain.
• Participation is not permitted for non-swimmers, pregnant individuals, or those with heart conditions (except managed blood pressure with medication).
• Participation is not permitted for those unable to understand or follow safety briefings in English, unless accompanied by a translator.
• Valuables are advised not to be brought to the experience.
• Safety is a priority so this experience is restricted for guests under the weight of 40kg (88.18lb), over the weight of 118kg (260.15lb) and under the age of 13 years.

Accessibility

• The experience is not fully wheelchair accessible.
• Pregnant people and guests with back issues, cardiac issues, and other serious medical conditions cannot participate in the experience.

Additional information

• Participants must be water-competent (able to swim 25m unaided) and possess moderate fitness.
• All participants must sign a waiver form.
• Listen carefully to guides’ instructions at all times.
• All trips are subject to weather, river level, and water temperature; the operator may cancel or substitute routes for safety reasons.
• Portages may be required based on changes to water level and flow.
• Glasses and sunglasses are allowed with a sports strap.
• Hot showers, toilets, and lockers are available at the Rafting Base.
• Participation in rafting activities involves a degree of risk; safety cannot be absolutely guaranteed.
• The operator reserves the right to refuse participation and cancel or amend any trips due to river, road, or weather conditions or insufficient numbers in the interest of all guests’ safety.

Raft the Kawarau River’s 400 m Dog Leg rapid, with optional jet boat transfer.

• Everything you get: Experience guided rafting on grade 2–3 rapids, including Dog Leg, New Zealand’s longest commercial rapid. Optional cliff jumping (conditions permitting), wetsuit and safety gear, certified guides, full safety briefing, return shuttle, hot showers, and secure lockers.
• Why choose this: Perfect for first-timers and families seeking a safe yet thrilling river adventure.
• Upgrades: Add a 30-minute jet boat ride for an extra adrenaline boost before your rafting adventure.

Inclusions #

• 1-hour rafting on the Kawarau River

• Experienced rafting guides

• Round-trip bus transfer between Queenstown and the rafting base

• All rafting and safety equipment including wetsuit and helmet

• Use of hot showers

• 25-minute jet boat ride (based on selected option)

Exclusions #

• Food (can be purchased at Canyon Brewing Queenstown after the trip)

What to bring

• Bring your own swimsuit and towel; wetsuits work best with swimwear only.
• Bring a valid photo ID for age verification if requested at check-in.
• It is recommended to bring only essential items; secure lockers are available for small valuables at the Rafting Base.

What’s not allowed

• Cameras, GoPros, and other recording devices are not allowed on the raft for health and safety reasons.
• Jeans or cotton clothing are not permitted under wetsuits.
• Large bags and unnecessary valuables are not recommended; storage is limited.
• Spectators are not allowed due to the remote location, friends and family cannot watch the trip.
• Safety is a priority so this experience is restricted for guests under the weight of 40kg (88.18lb), over the weight of 120kg (264.55lb) and under the age of 13 years.

Accessibility

• This experience is not accessible by wheelchair.
• Pregnant people and guests with back issues, cardiac issues, and other serious medical conditions cannot participate in the experience.
• Participants must be able to swim 25m unaided and have moderate fitness.
• Participants must be able to understand and follow safety briefings in English, or have a translator in their party.

Additional information

• All participants must sign a waiver form.
• Guests under 16 years old must have a guardian traveling with them and all guests under 18 years old must have a waiver form signed by a guardian.
• Guests must be water-confident, able to swim in fast-moving water, and agree to carefully follow instructions from the guides.
• Guests should have a moderate physical fitness level.
• The operator reserves the right to refuse participation and cancel or amend any trips due to river, road, or weather conditions or insufficient numbers in the interest of all guests’ safety.
• All trips are subject to weather, river levels, and water temperature, and may be cancelled or substituted for safety reasons.
• Trips operate with minimum numbers; reconfirm your booking at least 24 hours prior to departure.
• A comprehensive safety briefing and all necessary rafting equipment are provided.
• Hot showers and toilets are available at the Rafting Base.
• Food and beverages are available for purchase after the trip at Canyon Brewing Queenstown.
• All guides are qualified and certified professionals.
• Participation involves a degree of risk; safety cannot be guaranteed.
• 1% of all online bookings until the end of September go towards protecting the Pukunui NZ Southern Dotterel.

Thrilling combo of jet boating and beginner-friendly white water rafting on the Kawarau River

• Everything you get: Start with a high-speed jet boat ride to the rafting point, then tackle the Kawarau River on a guided white water rafting trip. Includes all safety gear, professional guides, and a beginner-friendly route through scenic river gorges.
• Why choose this: The only package that combines rafting and jet boating, designed for travelers who want a full day of action on the river.

Inclusions #

• 1-hour rafting on the Kawarau River

• Professional rafting guides

• 25-minute jet boat ride

• Round-trip bus transfer between Queenstown and the rafting base

• All rafting and safety equipment, including wetsuit and helmet

• Use of hot showers

What to bring

• Bring your ticket or voucher for entry.
• Wear comfortable clothing suitable for water activities and bring a change of clothes.
• Bring a towel, swimsuit, and sunscreen for your comfort and protection.
• Secure footwear that can get wet is recommended.

What’s not allowed

• Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not permitted.
• Drones are not allowed on the premises.
• Outside food or beverages are prohibited.
• Alcohol, drugs, and any form of intoxication are strictly prohibited during the experience.
• Safety is a priority so this experience is restricted for guests under the weight of 40kg (88.18lb), over the weight of 120kg (264.55lb) and under the age of 13 years.
• Keep in mind, cameras are not allowed on this experience.

Accessibility

• This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
• Pregnant people and guests with back issues, cardiac issues, and other serious medical conditions cannot participate in the experience.

Additional information

• All participants must sign a waiver form.
• Guests under 16 years old must have a guardian traveling with them and all guests under 18 years old must have a waiver form signed by a guardian.
• Guests must be water-confident, able to swim in fast-moving water, and agree to carefully follow instructions from the guides.
• Guests should have a moderate physical fitness level.
• The operator reserves the right to refuse participation and cancel or amend any trips due to river, road, or weather conditions or insufficient numbers in the interest of all guests’ safety.

Maximum intensity and narrow-canyon access from Shotover’s original launch site.

• Everything you get: Take a 25-minute jet boat ride on the iconic Shotover River, navigating twisting canyons and powerful rapids. Feel the thrill of high-speed action and 360-degree spins, guided by expert drivers who know every twist and turn, perfect for adrenaline seekers.
• Why choose this: Only Shotover Jet can take you deep into the river’s narrowest canyons, where skilled drivers push the limits with heart-racing 360° spins.
• Upgrades: Add round-trip transportation from Queenstown for a smooth, hassle-free start to your adventure.

Inclusions #

• 25-minute jet boat ride on the Shotover River

• High-speed adventure with 360-degree spins

• Life jackets

• Complimentary round-trip transfers from Queenstown (based on selected option)

What to bring

• Bring comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities and weather conditions.
• It is recommended to bring a change of clothes as you may get wet during the ride.
• Wear secure, closed-toe footwear.

What’s not allowed

• Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not permitted on the boat.
• Alcohol, drugs, and any form of intoxication are strictly prohibited before and during the ride.
• Pets are not allowed, except for registered service animals.
• Children under 5 years old are not allowed to participate in this experience.

Accessibility

• This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
• Pregnant people and guests with back issues, cardiac issues, and other serious medical conditions cannot participate in the experience.

Additional information

• Guests should have a moderate physical fitness level.
• If you've opted for Queenstown transfers, arrive at The Station Building 45 minutes before your jet boat departure time. Your selected time is for the jet boat ride. The transfer takes approximately 10 minutes each way. Total experience duration will be 1 hour 45 minutes, including return transfers.
• Please arrive at the meeting point at least 20 minutes before your scheduled departure time.
• All safety equipment and life jackets will be provided.

Twice the ride time of most jet trips, exploring Lake Wakatipu and two Queenstown rivers.

• Everything you get: Enjoy a full 1-hour jet boat ride across Lake Wakatipu and into the Kawarau and Shotover rivers. Experience high-speed stretches, sharp 360° spins, and close-up views of Queenstown’s surrounding landscapes. All safety gear is provided.
• Why choose this: Ideal for families and first-time riders. No height restrictions and child life jackets ensure everyone can enjoy a full hour of speed, spins, and varied river scenery in a single trip.

Inclusions #

• 1-hour jet boat ride on Kawarau and Shotover Rivers

• 360° spins on water

• High-speed river travel

• Expert driver/guide

• Life jackets (up to 4XL size)

What to bring

• Bring your booking confirmation and a valid photo ID for verification.
• Wear comfortable clothing suitable for high-speed water activities; safety clothing may be recommended on site.

What’s not allowed

• Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not permitted on the boat.
• Food and beverages are not allowed during the experience.
• Alcohol and cigarettes are strictly prohibited.
• Safety is a priority, so this experience is restricted for infants aged 2 years and under.

Accessibility

• This experience is accessible by wheelchair. You must be accompanied by a caregiver who can help carry you down a set of stairs and assist you with getting in and out of the jet boat.
• Pregnant people and guests with back issues, cardiac issues, and other serious medical conditions cannot participate in the experience.

Additional information

• Children and infants must be able to fit into the life jacket provided to enjoy this experience.
• Each infant must be accompanied by an adult during the experience.
• Children aged 14 years and under must be accompanied by an adult.
• Life jackets are available in sizes up to 4XL.
• The decision on whether a child can sit independently or on a guardian's lap will be made by staff at check-in.
• Children and infants must be able to fit into the life jacket provided to enjoy this experience.
• Bringing cameras on board is at your own risk.
• When a child sits on a guardian's lap, the guardian must keep their arms wrapped around the child and hold onto the handrail to secure the child, especially during spins.
• If you have any concerns about a pre-existing medical condition, consult with your doctor before participating.
• The activity operates in most weather conditions; dress appropriately and follow all safety instructions provided by staff.

Exclusive Dart River jet boat adventure inside Mt Aspiring National Park.

• Everything you get: A 2-hour jet boat ride along the glacier-fed Dart River, winding through Mt Aspiring National Park’s World Heritage landscapes, with commentary from your guide.
• Why choose this: Explore remote UNESCO wilderness, avoid the crowds, hear Māori legends, and spot locations from blockbuster films.
• Upgrades: Add complimentary Queenstown transfers for a smooth, hassle-free start to your adventure.

Inclusions #

• 2-hour jet boat ride

• Professional driver/guide

• Life jackets

• Spray jackets

• Complimentary round-trip transfers from Queenstown (based on selected option)

What to bring

• Bring a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at check-in.
• Carry your booking confirmation (printed or digital) for entry verification.
• Dress appropriately for outdoor activities and changing weather conditions; layered clothing and waterproof jackets are recommended.
• Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for outdoor and wet environments.
• Bring sun protection such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.

What’s not allowed

• Food and drinks are not permitted on the jet boat.
• Alcohol, drugs, and any form of intoxication are strictly prohibited during the experience.
• Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not allowed on board.
• Smoking is not permitted at any time during the tour.
• Safety is a priority so this experience is restricted for guests under the age of 3 years and under the height of 1m (3.28ft).

Accessibility

• This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
• Guests must be able to board and disembark the jet boat independently.
• Choose safety and comfort: This experience is not the best fit for pregnant people and people with back issues.
• Your safety comes first so visitors with cardiac issues and other serious medical conditions are restricted from participating in this experience.

Additional information

• The experience operates in a UNESCO World Heritage area; please respect the natural environment and follow all instructions from your guide.
• The tour runs in most weather conditions; in the event of severe weather, the operator will contact you regarding rescheduling or refunds.
• It is highly recommended to wear comfortable, supportive close-toed shoes during the experience.
• On colder days, please wear extra layers of clothing for maximum comfort.
• Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
• Please arrive at the designated meeting point at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time.

Float through UNESCO wilderness in your own Funyak, no experience needed.

• Everything you get: Enjoy a full-day Dart River adventure in Mount Aspiring National Park, combining a Funyak canoe ride and a jet boat journey. Pause for a scenic picnic lunch surrounded by untouched nature. All equipment and safety gear are included.
• Why choose this: Glide at your own pace into hidden side streams and secret valleys accessible only by Funyak, ideal for travelers seeking tranquility and a close connection with nature.
• Upgrades: Add complimentary Queenstown hotel transfers for a smooth, hassle-free start to your adventure.

Inclusions #

• “Funyaks” canoe tour

• Jet boat ride

• Expert local guide

• All safety equipment including life jacket and dry bag

• Picnic lunch

• Beverages (soft drinks, tea, and coffee)

• Complimentary round-trip transfers from Queenstown (based on selected option)

What to bring

• Wear comfortable outdoor clothing suitable for kayaking and jet boating.
• Bring a change of clothes and a towel, as you may get wet during the activities.
• Wear sturdy, closed-toe footwear that can get wet.
• Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.
• Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.
• Bring a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at check-in.

What’s not allowed

• Alcohol, drugs, and any form of intoxication are strictly prohibited during the experience.
• Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
• Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not allowed on the tour.
• Safety is a priority so this experience is restricted for guests under the age of 5 years and under the height of 1m (3.28ft).

Accessibility

• This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
• Choose safety and comfort: This experience is not the best fit for pregnant people and people with back issues.

Additional information

• All necessary equipment for kayaking and jet boating is provided.
• Life jackets, dry bags, wetsuits, booties, and fleece tops are provided and mandatory.
• No experience is required, but guests should be comfortable in the water.
• For winter or cooler summer days, it’s highly recommended to wear thermals, a warm outer layer, gloves, and a windproof jacket.
• The experience operates in most weather conditions; please dress appropriately.
• Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
• Please arrive at the designated meeting point at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure.
• The experience takes place in a natural outdoor environment; facilities may be limited.