Our site is currently open running 12 noon Jet Boat trips daily

Mou Waho
jet ski tour

Come explore one of Lake Wanaka's best kept secrets; Mou Waho Island. Combine the sense of adventure riding your own jet ski and the beauty of the remote island of Mou Waho for the ultimate advenure.
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JET SKI MOU WAHO

Where is Mou Waho Island and why should you visit? For starters it is perhaps one of the most unique lake islands anywhere in New Zealand. Commonly referred to as the the island, in a lake, in an island, in a lake, in an island in the ocean! Sounds confusing right? Put simply, as part of our Mou Waho Jet Ski Tour we visit the hidden lake; Arethusa pool which sits atop the island after a 20 minute walk.

At the island summit we have a perfect view of the whole island above the Arethusa Pool, 360 degree views of Lake Wanaka and surrounding mountain views; the gateway to Mount Aspiring National Park.

Our tour includes around 90 minutes on the island itself taking in this nature reserve. Managed by Department of Conservation the island has been cleared of introduced pests such as rats, stoats and possums, thus making it a 'safe' area for the native birdlife to live and breed including native birdlife like the New Zealand falcon, wood pigeon and buff weka.

The most common way to get to Mou Waho is by boat however this doesn't include the thrill and adventure of driving your own Jet Ski exploring on the way.

Due to Mou Waho Island's location we require any driving to have jet skiing experience and be confident in water. If it is your first time jet skiing please see our 1 hour jet ski tours.

Jet Ski Tour beside Ruby Island, Lake Wanaka

OVERVIEW

RESTRICTIONS

SAFETY

FAQ'S

YOUR TRIP

Jump on a tour visiting Lake Wanaka's most remote island. Our guides lead you to the island of Mou Waho before taking a guided tour of the island itself. Take in the scenic beauty on offer, so grab your camera and get in touch.

WHAT YOU GET ON YOUR TOUR

  • A wild ride in world famous WANAKA SCENERY.
  • APPROX 3.5 HOURS of serenity on NZ’s most beautiful lake.
  • GUIDED TOUR on the latest jet skis to the market.
  • REAL JET SKIING with the freedom to explore more.
  • ‍HASSLE FREE in the heart of Wanaka.
  • 100% KIWI – locally owned and operated.‍‍

Jet Ski Tour Restrictions

  • No licence is needed to drive a jet ski but clients must be able to understand our safety briefings and understand their obligations under Maritime Law.
  • The minimum age to drive is 18 years old
  • The recommended age for children to ride as passengers is 8 years and above.
  • Customers need to fully understand English and be able to follow all instructions given by guides & staff
  • The maximum combined weight for our jet skis is 230kg.
  • Our Mou Waho tours require Jet Ski Experience.

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Guides Tours

We only offer guided tours, not only does this allow us to take you to the best parts of Lake Wanaka but also creates a safer experience staying away from the more populated areas.

Safe?

Lakeland Wanaka was one of the first water based tourism business in Wanaka having operated for over 40 years. Our safety procedures are of the highest standard both with our operation and safety briefings & screening processes.

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Maritime Laws that must be followed at all times.

Our Jet Ski Tours involve yourself (and passengers) having control of your own jet ski as we tour Lake Wanaka. Due to being in charge of your vessel you are responsible for for following all Maritime Laws which include but not limited to the following:

  • Giving way to your starboard (right) side. Also turning to your starboard (right) side when boats meet head on.
  • Giving way to any vessel you pass making sure you give them plenty of space.
  • Staying alert for other boats, swimmers, kayaks, hazards etc at all times. This includes driving in a manner not to disrupt other vessels in close proximity.
  • Keeping a safe speed taking into account other user traffic and weather conditions.
  • Not exceeding 5knots (idle speed) within 200m of shore, 50m of any other boat/ jet ski/kayak or 50m of any person swimming.
  • Wearing you Life Jacket at all times
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Operating Safety.

Prior to departure your guide will show you the controls and dials of your ski including the location and briefing of the safety equipment. Once on your trip you will be required to follow your guide and follow their instructions.

Please Note: Jet skis must not be started/stopped in water under 2 feet (knee depth) which is done by holding the red button. The right-hand trigger controls speed and the left-hand trigger acts as a break and as reverse. In the case of emergency jet skis are to be stopped and drivers are to follow instructions of their guides. Drivers may be asked to assist in certain emergencies.


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Jet Ski Tour Seasons

Due to our weather and temperature here in Wanaka we offer scheduled trips from 1st October through till 31st March. We still run trips outside these months on an enquiry basis. Please be aware trips outside these months are in cold weather and will be run depending to the weather.

Departures

We depart up to 5 times a day depending on demand and the time of our season. See our booking link for departures and availability.

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Do I need to book?

Yes, if you are planning to arrive in time for a trip then it’s best you let us know

What should I wear?

What to wear depends a little on the weather and what you would like to get out of the trip. If it’s hot and you want to swim during the trip, wear your swimwear but if it’s not quite as hot as that then we have wetsuits to hire or just pop on a light wind proof layer to.

If it’s cool, then there is a good chance we will have the lake to ourselves but you will want to dress a little warmer, a merino or thermal layer topped off with a good wind proof layer would be suitable.

Heavy clothing such as denim is never appropriate on a jet ski

Shoes are likely to get wet any time of year so bring a spare pair of go barefoot.

Can I bring my camera/phone?

On our trip, there are many fantastic photo opportunities so yes you are welcome to bring a small camera or phone, however these are at your own risk. There is a secure hatch in front of you on the ski for such things.

What about my bag?

No, sorry but there is limited space on the ski so it is best if you can leave extra bags in your car or accommodation but if you come by foot and need it for later, we have a small amount of space in our office to store your backpack or handbag.

What about if the weather isn’t perfect?

The operation of our jet ski tours takes your experience into consideration, when we assess the weather so please make sure when you book you give us your correct contact information. Severely cold or strong winds may prevent operation regardless of your skill.

Will I get wet?

You are in control of your own ski during the tour so you can keep yourself dry if that is your wish or splash around if you prefer, the choice is yours.

I’ve driven a jet ski before can I just hire a ski and go on my own?

No, for your safety we always have one of our crew head out with you but since our rules are all common sense you will only love the value our guides add to your trip on the lake

Do I need a licence or experience?

No licence is required to operate a jet ski however all drivers need to be 18 years and able to follow all safety instructions given bu our guides. With our Mou Waho Tours jet ski experience is required. All drivers will still be given a safety briefing plus instruction on how to operate a jet ski.

I’m not 18 but I will be sharing a ski with my parent/legal guardian, can I drive?

Yes, as long as you are 15 or older and your parent is capable and willing to take over if required or requested by the supervising guide .

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Still have more questions? Contact us here

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Plan Your Trip

where are we

We are located in Wanaka; the heart of world famous Central Otago, New Zealand. We operate from the waterfront of Lake Wanaka, 100 Ardmore Street. Just look for the large trailer by the main Wanaka wharf.

Before you arrive

Before arrival make sure you are ready for your trip have everything you may need. Clothing that can get wet and suitable for the weather (A windbreaker or waterproof jacket is recommended on cooler days). We also recommend sunglasses to keep the wind out of your eyes (but bear in mind they could fall off).

CHecking in

As with all our products safety is at the for-front of our mind. We therefore require you to checkin at least 15 minutes prior to your departure. This time is needed to go over your jet ski waiver forms, receive your safety briefing and get fitted into life jackets.

Get your wanaka Fix

Once check in and safety briefings are completed it's finally time to jump on your tour and get your Wanaka Fix. Our guides are extremely friendly and more than happy to accomodate when they can. Feel free to ask them to take photos, ask questions if you have them but most importantly, ENJOY YOURSELVES!!
BOOK NOW

Watch our trailer

Come see Lake Wanaka like never before

WHY EXPLORE WITH
LAKELAND WANAKA?

Lakeland Wanaka is Wanaka’s home of water based adventures. Providing a location you can sample a range of New Zealand’s favourite adventure activities in one place.

100% Kiwi owned and operated Lakeland Wanaka is New Zealand’s leading adventure hub, offering a wide range of water based activities from relaxing outings to high adrenaline experiences on one beautiful location, Lake Wanaka.

Here at Lakeland Wanaka we have always been passionate about water sports. Spending the majority of our time around boats or water we are here to share why we love what we do. All our staff are picked for both their skills and knowledge on the job and for their personalities.

WE LIVE, SLEEP AND BREATH LAKELAND WANAKA

We are proud to share the beauty of lake Wanaka and have fun while we do it. The view from the shore is only a snap short of what is out there. The silence when you get there is breath-taking, the beauty; mind blowing, and the space to play; uninhibited. Visit us and let us take you to the view past the horizon.

"First of all I want to say that the staff will alone sets this jet boat experience apart from any others! Jeremiah really knows his stuff when it comes to Lake Wanaka, the surrounding areas and the history. Seeing the lake from the shoreline can’t beat this thrill of a boat ride around the lake and onto the gorgeous turquoise blue water show of the Clutha River- I would recommend it to anybody visiting Wanaka!"

AmberP03

Trip Advisor

"Last week I went on a Jet boat trip with there guy’s! The team is very friendly and professional. Because they work with smaller groups it feels like a personal trip. The trip takes you along a beautiful river with a lot of hidden treasures and history. I would recommend them if you want to experience a unique Jet boat ride in New Zealand!"

Erwan C

Trip Advisor

"First time on a jet ski, and it was great. I didn't want to give it back! Very easy to operate, but exciting to ride on. We went out onto Lake Wanaka and visited one of the bigger islands, where the guide gave us an explanation about the history. We were free to experiment on the jet ski and try different moves, as well as going fast! Well worth doing, and am thinking about getting one myself now!"

FordGP

Trip Advisor

"Hired kayaks from the lakefront $30 each for 2 hours and worth every cent. Beautiful low key way to see the lake. We paddled slowly around the shoreline to waterfall creek and back with lots of time to stop along the way."

Kylie O

Trip Advisor

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