GUIDED TOUR

WANAKA JET BOAT RIDE

Experience one of New Zealand’s most iconic adventure activities in one of the world’s most beautiful landscapes. Marvel at the power and remarkable maneuverability of New Zealand’s famous jet boat.
Duration: 60 minutes

Jet Boating on Lake Wanaka

Excitement and exhilaration

Speed and Spins

priced from

$135/adult

A 60 minute experience on Lake Wanaka & Clutha River

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Experience one of New Zealand’s most iconic adventure activities in one of the world’s most beautiful landscapes.

60 minute ride of Lake Wanaka and the Clutha River

Real NZ jet boating with shallow water and Hamilton Spins

Iconic NZ adventure in a beautiful landscape

Commentary of the local area history and river ecosystems

Unique combination of scenery and adventure

$135.00 NZD ADULT

$65.00 NZD CHILD

$369.00 NZD FAMILY

Experience

Highlights

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  • Scenic lake crossing with stunning views of snow‑capped mountains on Lake Wanaka on your way to the stunning Clutha River
  • Skim across shallow waters, rapids, and around rocks at speeds over 80 km/h
  • Boats carry up to 10 people, keeping the experience personal
  • Expert local commentary from gold‑rush tales to river ecology

Full description

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Come join us on a thrilling jet boat ride experiencing a unique combination of beauty and speed, discover our waterways like never before.

Merge pristine landscape and nature with world renowned jet boat speed and action as we race across scenic Lake Wanaka, and down New Zealand's largest river on this action-packed 1 hr Jet boat ride.

The Clutha River famous for its scenery, gold-rush history, and swift turquoise waters. Travel at speed navigating through shallow water and over giant pressure waves, speeding past overhanging trees and of course, what jet boat ride wouldn’t be complete without the iconic Hamilton Spin!

Remember your camera and enjoy photo opportunities of our unique landscape not to be missed plus get stories from your guide about our lands and our history.

This is an adventure for most so come and experience the iconic Wanaka Jet boat right in the heart of beautiful Wanaka.

Includes

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  • Jet boat on both Lake Wanaka and the Clutha River
  • History about our rich history and our waterways
  • Iconic Jet Boat manoeuvres
  • All safety equipment required

Not suitable for

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  • Children under 4 years
  • Pregnant Women
  • Those prone to sea sickness or motion sickness

Important information

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What to bring

  • Sunglasses (recommended all year round)
  • Cameras or phones; however are carried at your own risk
  • Dress for the weather - when in doubt, please bring extra layers


Know before you go

  • Please arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes prior to departure
  • Weather in New Zealand can be unpredictable, it is recommended to bring a warm clothing
  • Bring your sunglasses and sunblock
  • Don't forget your camera
  • Please Note we require a minimum of 4 passengers to run a trip, if you are booking as a single passenger please call to check availability
  • Children under 4 years of age cannot join the activity

Departure Point

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The Wanaka Wharf 100 Ardmore Street, Wanaka

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Please check-in 15 minutes prior to departure at our Lakeland Wanaka beachfront trailer

Cancellaton Policy

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  • You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
  • This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

FAQ

How long does it take to get to Ruby Island?

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On a kayak we suggest a 2-hour hire for a quick journey to Ruby Island. That’s usually enough time to get there and back with some time to walk around the island. If you want a more relaxed journey and want to take a picnic we recommend 3 hours.

What are the age restrictions for our kayaks and paddle boards?

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To use the equipment by yourself you must be over 16 years old, If you are under 16 you must be accompanied by a caregiver or supervised from the beach by a caregiver.

What are the weight limits for our kayaks?

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Our single kayak weight limit is 160kg, double kayak weight limit is 230kgs and our river single kayak weight limit is 130kg.

Do I need to be able to swim to hire a kayak or paddleboard?

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You don't need to know how to swim as we provide life jackets, however you need to be comfortable floating in the water in case you do fall in.

What happens if I do end up falling out of my kayak?

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Our staff will be monitoring the roys bay area making sure all our kayakers are safe. If you fall out you need to stay with your kayak and wait for our staff to come assist you.

What is provided?

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We provide life jackets and the equipment needed for the hire.

Can I bring a camera or a phone?

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You can at your own risk.

Do we have to book before we arrive?

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You do not need to make bookings for our kayaks and paddle boards as we do accept walk ins as well. However, if you want to ensure we have a kayak available at a specific time we do recommend booking.

FAQ

What should I wear on the Jet Boat?

We suggest you dress to the conditions, be mindful that there may be a windchill. In the winter dress as though you are going skiing. Make sure you are wearing sunscreen and sunglasses can also be worn if you like. Sun hats may fly off if they are not tightly secured to your head!

Will I get wet?

There is a possibility that you may get slightly wet during the “Hamilton spins”, ask our driver where to sit based on your preference on how wet you want to get!

Can I take a camera?

Yes you can, there will be great photo opportunities during the journey. You will need to be able to secure your camera or phone safely while we are traveling at speed so you can hold on with both hands.

What are the age restrictions for the Jet boat?

Our minimum age is 4 years, our passengers must be able to hold onto the handrail from a seated position.

What does Lakeland Wanaka provide?

We provide life jackets, A secure place for belongings you don't want to bring on the boat. And the experience of a lifetime!

Can we go Jet boating in the winter?

Yes you can! Just dress as though you were going skiing. Bring gloves and woolly hats, and our expert drivers will do our best to keep you dry.

Can I go if I'm pregnant?

Unfortunately you cannot ride the Jet boat when pregnant.

How long is the Jet boat trip?

The approximate time you spend on the boat is  60 minutes, However we need you to arrive at the departure point on the lakefront 15 minutes before departure to allow time to get fitted for life jackets and board the boat.