Kawarau Jet

You can step onto a big yellow Kawarau Jet every hour at the Main Town Pier in the centre of Queenstown. In an unforgettable Jet boat experience you’ll be transported from the sophisticated downtown area into the channels of two of New Zealand’s most scenic rivers.

Across the pristine waters of Lake Wakatipu and through the tranquil beauty of the willow lined Kawarau River, the Jet boat then speeds into the shallow, fast moving braids of the Shotover River. The 43 kilometre, hour long adventure highlights the magnificent diversity of Queenstown’s waterways.

Unique glimpses of local life are afforded as the homes lining the lakeshore flash by, before passengers take in stunning views of the Remarkables mountain range and natural land formations. But it’s not just the views and river gardens – the excitement begins on the Shotover River, where your driver’s skills are challenged as he navigates the shallow, braided channels of this world-renowned river. At speeds of up to 85 kilometres per hour, in water often less than 10cm deep – this is where the Jet boat comes into its own.

When you return to the Main Town Pier you’ll descend beneath the lakes surface to view the Underwater Observatory where you can feed the fish that thrive close to the shore. Photos from your trip can be purchased here as mementos of your unique Jet boat adventure.

Driven by over 40 years of passion, Kawarau Jet is locally owned and operated and proud of its heritage as the worlds first commercial Jet boat operation.