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Kawarau River Tours

Our most recommended Kawarau River Tours

Queenstown: Shotover River and Kawarau River Jet Boat Ride

1. Queenstown: Shotover River and Kawarau River Jet Boat Ride

Get an adrenaline rush on a 1-hour jet boat ride, operated by the world’s first commercial jet boat company. Take in stunning views of the Remarkable Mountains and journey up 2 of the South Island’s most iconic rivers.  Depart from the heart of Queenstown, and climb aboard the big yellow jet boat at the Main Town Pier. Hold on tight as you accelerate across the water and feel the exhilaration of a high-powered twin-engine boat that powers across Lake Wakatipu. Experience the twists and spins as you enter the Kawarau River and race past rocks and under bridges at speeds of up to 95 kilometers per hour.  Grip the heated handrails and experience 360° spins while you speed up the shallow channels of the Shotover River. After 45 kilometers of pure adrenaline, return to the pier and see photos and videos from your trip.

Queenstown: Gibbston Valley Half-Day Canyoning Adventure

2. Queenstown: Gibbston Valley Half-Day Canyoning Adventure

Get introduced to the fun and thrilling sport of canyoning at Kawarau Canyon on an half-day tour. Jump in a van for a 20-minute van transfer from downtown Queenstown into Gibbston Valley's wine country. Immerse yourself in the sport of canyoning whilst enjoying the beauty of your natural surroundings. Professional and qualified guides will kit you out with all the best equipment. Benefit from a full safety briefing and demonstration on all the elements of canyoning before heading out for adventure. You'll take an easy 5-minute walk to the canyon start point. Before you know it, you'll be off down the canyon, sliding natural watersides, trying your hand at abseiling down waterfalls and having the most awesome summer experience ever. This canyon is open to first-time canyoners as well as experienced adventure seekers, looking for an awesome activity in a safe and controlled environment.

Queenstown: Kawarau River Rafting and Jet Boat Ride

3. Queenstown: Kawarau River Rafting and Jet Boat Ride

Raft the Kawarau River, perhaps better known as the River Anduin in Lord of the Rings, for a great half-day activity in Queenstown This is a perfect introduction to whitewater rafting for first-timers. There will be plenty of rapids action plus time to sit back and enjoy the spectacular scenery. Catch the free shuttle from the centre of town out to the raft base where you will be fitted out with all your gear. From there, head back into the heart of Queenstown to catch your jet boat transfer. Take on the beginning 22 km of the Kawarau river at 95 km/h with thrilling 360-degree spins as you arrive at the rafting station. Your rafting adventure covers 8-kilometers of the river. Take on grade 2-3 rapids and perhaps the occasional grade 2-4 rapid, when there are higher water levels. These are usually easier to navigate and there is less risk of falling out. Enjoy flat stretches of river between the rapids where you have the opportunity to race your friends on the other rafts or jump out and swim. Keep an eye on the other rafts, as there is a good chance of a water fight. Conclude your adventure by rafting the longest commercially rafted rapid in New Zealand, the Dog Leg. This is a 400-meter long and grade 3/4 rapid. Add some extra excitement by joining in on the optional cliff jumping section, or sit back and watch your friends take a leap.

Queenstown: Half-Day 4WD Lord Of the Rings Discovery Tour

4. Queenstown: Half-Day 4WD Lord Of the Rings Discovery Tour

Embark on an adventure safari packed with breathtaking scenery, thrilling 4WD action, and LOTR filming locations. Visit the filming locations of Minas Tirith, Misty Mountains, the Pillars of the Kings (Argonath), Gladden Fields, the Ford of Bruinen, and more.  After pick-up from your hotel, journey around the Wakatipu Basin to see The Remarkables, which were used as various mountains throughout the three movies. Travel part way up Queenstown Hill for a bird's-eye view onto Deer Park Heights, which was used for the refugees of Rohan and the Battle of the Wargs scenes. From the viewpoint, head to Kawarau Gorge where the filming took place for the Argonath - 'Pillars of the Kings'. After Kawarau Gorge, travel to Arrowtown where the loss of The One Ring scene at Gladden Fields was shot. Near Arrowtown, you will experience a true off-road adventure. Following a historic gold mining road up the Arrow River, cross the river many times to get to the Ford of Bruinen. Here you can indulge in a refreshing afternoon tea and try your hand at a spot of gold panning. From Arrowtown, travel to the entrance of Skippers Canyon for spectacular panoramic views of the Wakatipu Basin and into the Canyon.

Queenstown: White Water Surfing Along the Kawarau River

5. Queenstown: White Water Surfing Along the Kawarau River

Bodyboard up to 12km down the iconic Kawarau River. You’ll enjoy riding white water rapids and even get a chance to try surfing on standing waves, riding whirlpools as well as catching some underwater currents if you are brave enough. The fast Kawarau River bursts with energy, and this trip will challenge your nerves from start to finish. About 1-1.5 hours will be spent in the river.  The bodyboards are light and highly maneuverable, allowing you to be more active in the water. It's the perfect choice for someone looking for the ultimate adventure. You can even choose your own board depending on how much adrenaline you can handle. River surfing is best suited for people who want the full white water experience. You'll get the opportunity to also enjoy some of New Zealand's spectacular scenery on the more gentle parts of the river, and you can also stop for a jump from the cliffs along the river.

Queenstown & Gibbston Valley Wine Hopper Bus

6. Queenstown & Gibbston Valley Wine Hopper Bus

Climb aboard the Wine Hopper bus for a wine adventure at your own pace hopping on and off at wineries in the Queenstown and Gibbston Valley wine region. Departing daily from central Queenstown, a friendly onboard host will help you get the most out of your day. Enjoy a 20-minute scenic drive out to the wine region showcasing the very best of Queenstown's countryside amongst picturesque surroundings. Grab a timetable that will outline the shuttle service stopping hourly at nine venues. Discover one, two or all nine venues - each with their own unique offerings and charm. Reveal an array of winery restaurants and tasting rooms where you can stop for lunch or take a tasting before moving on. Taste award-winning wines at cellar doors, learn all about winemaking by taking an underground wine cave tour, enjoy a leisurely winery lunch, or savor a complimentary cheese tasting at Gibbston Valley Cheesery nestled amongst the vines. You’ll have plenty of time to sip and dine or try a brew at the local tavern. Walk or hire a bike to wander along the Kawarau River as you soak in the stunning views - river on one side and vines on the other. The Wine Hopper Bus runs an hourly circuit 6 times a day around nine wineries and other attractions in Gibbston Valley area. The bus travels in and out of Queenstown every two hours throughout the day. Return to Queenstown when you are ready, arriving at 1:00 pm, 3:00 pm, 5:00 pm or 6:00 pm.

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What people are saying about Kawarau River

Overall rating

5.0 / 5

based on 2 reviews

So fun! Great experience beautiful scenery! Experienced driver! We loved this one hour trip! Totally fun

Awesome thrills and spins… you will get wet. Good commentary, amazing skills, a must do experience!

Very fun activity, jet boat ride into the rafting. staff were awesome

The experience was breathtaking and the staff are very friendly

White water rafting was a highlight of our family holiday.