New Zealand is the perfect playground for water sport lovers. It offers a huge variety of rivers, canyons and lakes. Among the most popular of these activities you will find White Water Rafting, Canyoning & Jet Boating. You will find that many of these companies have been operating for decades and have perfected their craft.
Kiwis are among the most outdoorsy nations in the world and have turned countless incredible rivers and canyons into accessible day tours bookable for the public with expert guides from all over the world running the tours.
Find a few of our favourite picks in the list below. At Happy Travels we know, because we go. Our staff ventured out to try out all these amazing adventures below to be able to recommend only the best of the best!
Get ready to dive into the ultimate entry-level rafting experience – and we've got just the ticket for you! The Kawarau River is the perfect playground for first-timers, boasting stunning watercolor and grade 3-4 rapids that check all the boxes for a wildly fun yet exhilarating introduction to white-water rafting. Kick off your day with a breezy ride or jump on the free shuttle to the rafting base snugly tucked in Arthur’s Point. There, you'll be greeted by REAL NZ’s rockstar rafting guides from every corner of the globe. They'll hook you up with wetsuits, paddles, and life vests, and…
Get set for a SUP (Stand-up-paddleboard) Adventure like no other at Lake Mapourika, New Zealand's ultimate scenic spot for paddleboarding fun! Known as the "flower of the dawn," this magical lake boasts calm, mirror-like waters and a stunning backdrop, making it the perfect playground for paddleboard enthusiasts. Join the Franz Josef Wilderness Tours team of experienced SUP instructors and tour guides as they take you on a day out through the rainforest and hidden bays of Lake Mapourika. Discover secret coves, glide past ancient trees, and soak up the breathtaking scenery as you paddle your way through this paradise. Don’t…
Hop into your kayak for an adventure into the beauty of Westland's untouched rainforest, guided by a local expert kayak guide. Check out the wonders of kiwi conservation as you explore the exclusive rainforest trail, where you'll encounter a variety of native birdlife up close. For those eager to paddle, your guide will lead you to hidden creeks waiting to be discovered - the choice is yours, as this tour is tailored just for you. To ensure your comfort and enjoyment, your experienced kayak hosts will provide warm water for a refreshing cup of tea or coffee along the way.…
Embark on a journey of discovery with the Kayak & Walk Tour from Franz Josef Wildnerss Tours, your gateway to exploring the ancient and untouched rainforest of Westland. Gain exclusive access to this highly detailed and crafted rainforest trail nestled within the Okarito Kiwi Conservation area. As you paddle through serene waters on your kayak tour, immerse yourself in the fascinating world of kiwi conservation. Keep your eyes peeled for native birdlife and the pristine wilderness that surrounds you, all within the remote and unique landscape of Franz Josef Glacier. This immersive experience offers a rare opportunity to connect with…
Experience our most popular adventure combo! The awesome foursome includes a Bungy jump, a jet boat, a scenic helicopter ride with an alpine landing and a whitewater rafting excursion. Bundle up some of Queenstown's most popular activities and unlock huge savings. The Awesome Foursome Combo will take place over 2 or 3 days depending on your preference. Start by facing your fears and taking the leap of faith from the famous Kawarau Bridge at the birthplace of Bungy Jumping. This 43m Bungy jump is world renowned as the first ever commercial Bungy site. Once your feet are back on the…
Embark on this Five Day Classic trip and immerse yourself in the beauty of Abel Tasman National Park. With ample time to explore, this journey promises unforgettable experiences. Your expert guides, carefully selected for their extensive knowledge, will lead you to hidden treasures and share insights about the coastal environment. Settle into beachside campsites, allowing you to connect with nature as you explore both by sea and land. Each excursion is personalized to suit your interests, adapting to weather and tide conditions for an authentic adventure. While there's no fixed itinerary, the aim is to introduce you to highlights such…
Experience three days of adventure in Abel Tasman National Park with a mix of unguided walks and guided kayak tours. Start your journey with a water taxi ride to Totaranui, where you'll spend the first day exploring the northern section of the park on foot. After crossing the Awaroa Lagoon, settle in for a night at Awaroa Glamping, nestled in Awaroa Bay. On the second day, embark on a guided Remote Marine Reserve Tour, paddling through pristine waters. Your accommodation for the night will be at either Bark Bay or Anchorage campsite, depending on the tide, with all camping gear…
Spend three days walking independently on one of New Zealand’s premier walks and let Abel Tasman Kayaks take care of the rest. Explore the Abel Tasman coastal track walking at your own pace. Relax and recharge over three glorious days exploring the many golden beaches and lush coastal native bush. Take your time to explore side tracks, relax and swim at beaches. The days are yours to savour and independently explore this great walk. In the evening relax and be taken care of by your knowledgeable guide. This trip offers the best of both worlds, independent walking with the added…
Set off on a guided kayaking expedition that starts at Marahau and finishes at Observation Beach. Along the way, catch fleeting glimpses of the coastal track and experience up close the magic of the Astrolabe Islands Once you arrive at Observation Beach, enjoy lunch before transitioning from paddling to walking. Discover clear streams, native bush and and breathtaking vistas overlooking Anchorage and the Astrolabe Islands during your afternoon walk. Walk along Anchorage Beach to walk the beautiful Pitt Head loop track. Allow plenty of time to savor the panoramic vista that is Te Pukatea Bay, a hidden gem in the…
Experience the remoteness of the Northern part of the park over two glorious days. Short on time but want to experience the Northern end of the park? This trip offers one day unguided walking and one day guided kayak. This trip has been designed for those wanting to experience the top of the park. Abel Tasman Kayaks have taken their popular Three Day Tiki and broken it into the first two days. This is ‘kiwi tikiing’ at its best! Water taxi to Totaranui and spend the first day walking in the northern section of the park. After crossing the Awaroa…
Overnight wanderers! This is for you! Ready for the ultimate Abel Tasman adventure? Abel Tasman Kayaks has the blueprint for an overnight kayak trip that's been the talk of New Zealand. If you're into making memories that stick, the classics are your ticket. Dive headfirst into the natural wonders of Abel Tasman National Park. Nights here are a celestial show, and the Milky Way steals the spotlight. Fall asleep to the lull of waves, wake up to a bird symphony—it's the chill beachside camping vibe you didn't know you needed. Paddle the coastline from Awaroa to Marahau. The northern park…
Embark on the Remote Marine Reserve tour on the first day, crafted to align with the tide. This ensures that each departure provides the optimal opportunity to fully explore the marine reserve via kayak, experiencing the best parts of the park. Conclude day one by camping overnight at either Bark Bay or Anchorage. On the second day, traverse the coastal track unguided from Bark Bay to Anchorage or vice versa, depending on the previous night's campsite. If coming from Bark Bay, ascend through the lush coastal forest, cross the 47 m suspension bridge over Falls River, sidle around two valleys,…
This stunning trip has been tailored around the tide timetable to explore the marine reserve to the fullest. As mother nature ebbs and flows so does this trip.The park’s rocky coastline is a haven for a myriad of marine life and is a fascinating place to explore. Abel Tasman Kayaks is one of only three operators authorised to undertake marine mammal viewing from sea kayaks at Tonga. Start Awaroa/Finish Bark Bay Starting at Awaroa, courtesy of our water taxi transfer, visit Shag Harbour, a hidden inlet like nowhere else in the Abel Tasman. Then paddle south, focusing on the Tonga…
The highlight of this trip is visiting Adele Island sanctuary, home to an array of protected native birds and a popular hang out for NZ fur seals. A cacophony of bird sound is unique to the Island thanks to the work of the Abel Tasman Birdsong Trust. A portion of your ticket price also goes to supporting their work. This trip is 100% paddle power which also helps reduce your carbon footprint. The forest-fringed Astrolabe is a stunning place to explore and it also offers the highest concentration of golden sandy beaches in the Abel Tasman. Simply an amazing day…
This is a fantastic kayak and walk combo in the middle section of the Abel Tasman park Tailoring the start and finish kayaking points around the tide timetable means on any given departure your experience the best part of the park and are able to explore the marine reserve to the fullest. Explore the realm of Tangaroa, God of the sea and feel the presence of Tane Mahuta, God of the forest on this trip. Start Awaroa/Finish Bark Bay Kayaking out from Awaroa allows a visit to Shag Harbour, a hidden inlet like nowhere else in the Abel Tasman. Carry…
From Marahau to Bark Bay, Earth, Sea & Sky packs a lot into one day. Your day kicks off with a Water Taxi ride to Torrent Bay. Begin your unguided walk from Torrent Bay as the track gradually climbs, then meanders around two valleys and above an inlet, eventually leading to Falls River. Falls River is crossed via a remarkable 47-meter suspension bridge, a real highlight of this trip. Beyond the suspension bridge crossing, the trail winds through lush coastal forest before descending back to sea level at Bark Bay. Enjoy a freshly made lunch at Bark Bay, before being…
Set off on a guided kayaking expedition that starts at Marahau and finishes at Observation Beach. Along the way, catch fleeting glimpses of the coastal track and experience up close the magic of the Astrolabe Islands Once you arrive at Observation Beach, enjoy lunch before transitioning from paddling to walking. Discover clear streams, native bush and and breathtaking vistas overlooking Anchorage and the Astrolabe Islands during your afternoon walk. Walk along Anchorage Beach to walk the beautiful Pitt Head loop track. Allow plenty of time to savor the panoramic vista that is Te Pukatea Bay, a hidden gem in the…
Abel Tasman Kayak’s interpretation of the environment is renowned and gives you the knowledge to see beyond the obvious beauty. Embark on a morning guided kayak adventure setting out from Marahau and padde your way to Observation Beach. In the afternoon exchange your paddle for walking shoes as you retrace your steps. The southern end of the national park boasts some of the Abel Tasman’s most picturesque scenery. Here, you’ll find twelve stunning beaches, awe-inspiring rock formations, and opportunities to spot a seal or two. From the kayak, catch glimpses of the coastal track and experience the enchantment of the…
Embark on an adventure to uncover the secrets of Adele Island and its Seal Colony. Start with a scenic water taxi ride to Observation beach setting the stage for exploration of the adjacent coastline by kayak. Paddle out to Adele & Fisherman Islands and observe the antics of the resident New Zealand Fur Seals also known as Kekeno. Keep an eye out for the Little Blue Penguins that often make appearances as well. There is ample time to spend with the playful Kekeno who calls the islands home. This short but sweet tour of the southern end of the Abel…
Get ready for an epic journey tailored for groups, families and anyone craving a brief but thrilling kayaking escapade! Embark on a leisurely and serene paddle that serves as the perfect introduction to the wonders of Abel Tasman, the art of kayaking, and the chance to get up close and personal with the legendary Split Apple Rock. This is an exploration along the mesmerizing coastline from Marahau to the renowned Split Apple Rock. You’ll glide on past sea caves during high tide, discover the secrets of the shag (Cormorant) colony, and conquer Nagio Island & Split Apple Rock before circling…
Introducing the Tiki Tour, a kayaking adventure tailored for a minimum of 4 passengers. Immerse yourself in a journey that explores the remote corners of Lake Wanaka, kicking off your day surrounded by the majestic Southern Alps. The half-day Tiki Tour is meticulously crafted to impart the local knowledge and capitalize on the enchanting mornings spent kayaking on Lake Wānaka. Led by Paddle Wanaka’s vibrant crew of locals, this excursion aims to reveal the hidden gems of the lake, sharing intriguing local tales and engaging in lively conversations along the way. Paired with a water taxi, Te Toa, this one-way…
Get on down to the beach rental van and hire a kayak or a paddleboard within Roys Bay! The lake is super inviting and getting out on the water is a must-do in Wanaka. Paddle Wanaka has the options of 1hour, 2 hour and 3 hour rentals. You can visit one of the popular destinations. Check out famous #thatwanakatree , Eely Point, or Waterfall Creek (1 hour recommended), or visit Ruby Island for a picnic (2 hours recommended). Choose your own adventure. One of the friendly beach front crew will make sure you’ve got the equipment, knowledge and skills you…
Know what you’re doing and just need the gear? Explore Lake Wānaka on this self-guided kayaking activity! The Paddle Wanaka team will drive you and the gear out to where you start and your Mission is to paddle it all back. Head off with your buddy, partner, family or group of friends and enjoy a morning of paddling on Lake Wānaka. You’ll get lots of good advice from the folks at Paddle Wānaka. They’ll help you plan your route based on the weather and your experience level. Plus they’ll provide transport to your starting location, so you only need to…
Welcome to Paddle Wanaka, where adventure meets passion in the heart of the stunning Wanaka region! They aren’t just a company, but also very enthusiastic travel companions on a mission to share the magic of their backyard with fellow wanderers. Meet Chris and Bex Thornton, the dynamic duo behind Paddle Wanaka. Hailing from the high country farming traditions of New Zealand, their roots include paragliding and commercial skydiving. They've woven their love for the outdoors into the fabric of Paddle Wanaka, building it from the ground up. Their tight-knit whanau, bursting with energy and a knack for all things outdoors,…
The ultimate caving extravaganza with The Black Abyss—it's the top-notch caving tour combining the thrill of canyoning with the mesmerizing beauty and mystery of the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, all rolled into one epic adventure! Your day kicks off by linking up with the expert guides who've got your back every step of the way, ensuring you're geared up with all the right equipment. Get ready for some serious stoke as they teach you the ropes of abseiling, ziplining, and the art of safely jumping down subterranean waterfalls. Hold on tight because your grand entrance into the cave system involves abseiling…
As New Zealand’s biggest glowworm cave system, this trip offers the unique opportunity to combine a canyoning/caving adventure with a mesmerizing journey into something that looks like a long lost world. Venture deep into the cave system guided by your expert guides, equipped with wetsuits and head torches. If you are brave enough, you can jump down subterrain waterfalls and work your way into the heart of the cave where you will find an underground river with a very gentle current. It is here where you will do the famous float through the glowworm caves with your head torches turned…
Kind of like ‘Sharknado’ but in real life. This is arguably Queenstown’s most unique water activity. One of the few places in the world where you can “ride a shark” Reaching speeds of 80 kph on the water and 40 kph diving under the water, experience a one-on-one ride with your friendly and experienced pilots in this semi-submersible shark. You will be inside what feels like a cross between a fighter jet and a torpedo. It’s skimming across the top of the lake at 80kph and before you know it, your pilot dives underwater and then points the shark at…
Fasten your seatbelts for the river ride of your life! You are about to take the water by storm with our one-of-a-kind Jet Sprint Boat experience in Queenstown! Hop aboard this custom-built 4-seater sensation, the world's first of its kind. Hold on tight as your driver cranks up the thrill factor, reaching speeds that you have to feel to believe! Ever wondered what it's like to fly on water? Well, wonder no more because this Jet Sprint Boat is here to make waves—literally! Brace yourself for an adrenaline-pumping journey that'll have you grinning from ear to ear. Buckle up as…
Gear up for an exhilarating adventure that will have your heart pounding with excitement! Navigate through steep native bush-clad canyons, conquer over 14 breathtaking rapids, and experience the thrill of descending three incredible waterfalls, including the world-renowned 7-meter Tutea Falls—the Highest Commercially Rafted Waterfall on the entire planet! In this action-packed 3-hour round trip, you're in for a truly unique Kiwi whitewater escapade that stands out from the rest. World-class guides are your companions on this epic journey down the Kaituna River, guiding you through the rush of 14 awesome rapids and the heart-stopping descent over three waterfalls, with Tutea…
If you enjoy watersports like white water rafting you will love River Surfing! It captures the theme of the adventure capital perfectly as this sport is about taking on the rapids of the as in individual guides by experts. The high-volume Kawarau River is bursting with adrenaline, and this trip will challenge your nerves from start to finish. Conquer grade 2 and 3 rapids and become king or queen of the river, riding the rapids on a bodyboard. Enjoy surfing standing waves, riding whirlpools and eddy lines, as well as catching some underwater currents if you are brave enough. River…
Gear up for the ultimate thrill on this full-day guided tour to Mt. Aspiring! This canyoning adventure is a heart-pounding, action-packed experience lasting 4-5 hours, featuring abseiling, climbing, and technical jumps that'll leave you buzzing. Meet your stoked guides in Queenstown before embarking on a scenic drive to Mt. Aspiring National Park, known for its pristine waters and alpine landscapes. Don't worry about gear—the team has got you covered with a canyoning-specific wetsuit, socks, shoes, harness, helmet, and climbing gear. Just bring swimwear and a towel. With a customer-to-guide ratio of 4:1, expect an expertly guided and immersive adventure. Get…
Get ready for the ultimate summer thrill, where you can revel in nature, stay active, and conquer natural waterslides, abseil down waterfalls, and scale massive stone walls! It's the perfect experience for both non-swimmers and beginners, offering an awesome introduction to the exhilarating world of canyoning. Your guides will meet you in downtown Queenstown for a central pick-up, kicking off a quick and scenic 40-minute drive through the picturesque wine country of Gibbston Valley to reach the canyon. Forget about the gear – they’ve got you covered with canyoning-specific wetsuits, socks, shoes, harness, helmet, and climbing gear. All you need…
Get ready to elevate your senses with the ultimate canyoning thrill! The Routeburn Canyon offers a more intense adventure than the half-day Queenstown canyon, featuring higher jumps and abseils. As the exclusive canyoning company in the UNESCO World Heritage Routeburn Valley, Canyon Explorers takes you to secluded spots for a genuine sense of isolation amidst breathtaking natural beauty. Beginning at the Queenstown Adventure Centre, you'll swiftly head to the canyoning base, gearing up for the epic journey ahead. A scenic drive along Lake Wakatipu's shores takes you through Glenorchy and into Mount Aspiring National Park’s Routeburn Valley. After changing into…
Dive into the thrill of canyoning, the ultimate blend of river descent and wild adventure! Navigate rivers using a mix of walking, climbing, ziplining, and more. Canyons, nature's water parks, await with an outdoor water sports extravaganza, perfect for adventure enthusiasts. Embark on a canyon descent, conquering challenges to reach the bottom and relishing exclusive views. After a short drive to the canyoning base, gear up, attend a safety briefing, and follow expert guides through ancient beech forests to the canyon's start. Experience heart-pounding moments - zip-lining, abseiling down waterfalls, sliding, plunging, and floating - all amidst stunning natural surroundings.…
Get set for the ultimate adventure in the thrill capital of the world – and what better way to complete the experience than with an exhilarating white-water rafting escapade? Brace yourself for the challenge of a lifetime with Shotover Rafting, the perfect trip for those who want to conquer Mother Nature head-on. Kickstart your day with a quick ride or hop on the free shuttle to the rafting base nestled in Arthur’s Point. Here, you'll be greeted by a squad of rafting guides from around the globe who will hook you up with wetsuits, paddles, and life vests. We've got…
A 60 minute adrenaline pumping adventure from Queenstown with a rush like no other. Experience 25 or 60 minutes of exhilarating adventure departing from the heart of Queenstown’s town center. This jet boat ride is filled with speed and numerous 360-degree spins. Take in the stunning scenery with the wind in your face as we race across Lake Wakatipu and head down the Kawarau River. The experienced drivers will get you up close and personal with the lake's edge while performing exhilarating maneuvers. The perfect activity for a sunny day and the best way to explore the pristine waters of…
This is one of the most mind-blowing, heart-pounding, and utterly epic half-day jet boat adventures to come out of Queenstown! Brace yourself as you tear through the braided, glacier-fed Dart River, carving a path deep into the beauty of Mount Aspiring National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Area! Dart River Adventures doesn't mess around - they’ve got the longest jet boat ride in the whole region. This isn't just a tour; it's a journey for those who want to soak up every ounce of awesomeness in this jaw-dropping locale. Your time is precious, and this crew is here to…
Start your journey from the easily accessible main pier in the heart of Queenstown and power into the channels of two of New Zealand's most scenic waterways; The Kawarau & Shotover rivers over the course of 1 hour. Gliding over the pure waters of Lake Wakatipu taking in stunning views of the Remarkables mountain range, follow the path of the Kawarau River, before pursuing the shallower waters and fast-moving braids of the famous Shotover River. In the shallow waters the jet boat is able to show off its full ability, traveling at speeds up to 95 km/ph often in water…
Get up close and personal with nature and a gentle paddle on the crystal clear waters within Mount Aspiring National Park. Your Funyak journey begins with an exhilarating jet boat ride from Glenorchy up the Dart River deep into the heart of the world-renowned Mount Aspiring National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After your jet boat ride, you will travel back down stream with our expert guides in the unique Funyaks (inflatable canoes) working your way through pristine waters as they flow from the Southern Alps to Lake Wakatipu. Explore channels and side-streams in this spectacular wilderness location and…
Skippers Canyon Jet is an excellent blend of nature, local history and adrenaline fuelled action and offers value second to none! This family owned business is operated by the 5th generation descendants of Queenstown’s first gold miners. They offer you a unique opportunity to pair an exhilarating jet boat experience with a journey through the rich gold mining history of Queenstown. Your trip commences with a guided 4WD journey along the historic Skipper's Road, a winding route etched into the canyon walls during the 1860s gold rush. Take in the dramatic views as you are narrated through Queenstown’s origin story.…
Get ready for an adrenaline-packed ride that will leave you breathless and exhilarated! Introducing the Shotover Jet in Queenstown – the ultimate thrill-seeker's dream. Buckle up for a heart-pounding experience as the Shotover Jet propels you through the stunning Shotover River canyons at jaw-dropping speeds. With 360-degree spins and hairpin turns, this iconic jet boat adventure should be part of everyone’s bucket list as you experience the breathtaking views of the canyon and soar over the glacier fed waters of the Shotover River. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or a first-time thrill-seeker, the Shotover Jet experience is designed for everyone.…
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