Kawarau Jet Boat & Rafting Thrills with Challenge Rafting
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4–4.5 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required: able to swim comfortably and handle physical paddling; suitable for active beginners.
Overview
Challenge Rafting’s Kawarau Jet 2 Raft trip blends jet boating and whitewater rafting on New Zealand’s Kawarau River, offering thrilling rapids, cliff jumps, and breathtaking valley views. Experience this 4.5-hour adventure near Queenstown that’s perfect for first-timers and families.
Kawarau Jet 2 Raft
4 - 4.5 Hours • Grade 2-3
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Experience the thrill of jet boating and whitewater rafting on the stunning Kawarau River! This 4.5-hour adventure offers breathtaking views of the Gibbston Valley and iconic Lord of the Rings scenery. Enjoy exhilarating 360-degree spins, tackle the famous Dog Leg Rapid, and even try cliff jumping for an unforgettable day!
Combine jet boating and whitewater rafting on the Kawarau River! 360-degree spins and stunning river views start you off on your next adventure!
Duration
4.5 hours
About
The Kawarau River provides an exhilarating trip for first-time rafters. A great introduction to whitewater rafting, the Kawarau River boasts superb scenery and unique perspectives of the Gibbston Valley wine region and New Zealand’s first bungy jumping site. We will transport you up the river on a thrilling jet boat ride. Then jump into a raft and float past vast rock cliffs and dramatic scenery that was home to the filming of the Lord of the Rings. Top it all off with the longest commercially rafted rapid in New Zealand, the 400 metre long Dog Leg Rapid!
What's Included
- Jet Boat for 30 minutes down Lake Wakatipu & the Kawarau River
- Whitewater rafting down the Kawarau River
- Cliff jumping
- Full wetsuit clothing and rafting equipment
- Hot showers at the rafters lodge
- Safety briefing
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for Check-In
Plan to arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to get fitted with gear and attend the safety briefing.
Wear Swimwear Under Your Wetsuit
Bring swimwear to wear beneath the provided wetsuit for comfort and quick drying post-rafting.
Bring a Towel and Warm Clothes
Have a towel and a change of warm clothes for after your rafting adventure when you’ll want to warm up quickly.
Be Prepared for Getting Wet
Rafting and jet boating both guarantee getting wet even on sunny days—embrace it and plan accordingly.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Kea parrots often spotted near rocky slopes
- Trout in clear river sections popular with anglers
History
The Kawarau River area was New Zealand’s first commercial bungy jump site, established in 1988, pioneering extreme adventure in the region.
Conservation
Challenge Rafting emphasizes river health through low-impact practices and educates visitors on preserving the fragile aquatic ecosystem.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Queenstown
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Swimsuit
Worn under your wetsuit for comfort and quick drying after rafting.
Water Shoes or Sandals
Protects feet during rafting and walking on rocky shores.
Quick-Dry Towel
Helps dry off after the trip and stay comfortable.
Base Layer or Thermal Top
Adds warmth under your wetsuit during cooler months.
fall|winter|spring specific