Queenstown Kawarau River Rafting and Jet Boat
Overview
Available languages
4 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Combining two of Queenstown's most iconic activities, this trip is second to none! Starting on the Queenstown Jet Boat, you'll get to experience those famous 360 degree spins and speed. Discover the Kawarau River and its pristine wilderness as we race you down the river to your next mode of transport. Then jump straight into a raft to complete the last section of river, where the Jet Boats fear to go. Spend your morning or afternoon paddling through the historic Kawarau gorge, famous for its gold mining, wineries and it’s stint in The Lord of the Rings franchise.
Paddle and swim your way through grade 2-3 whitewater rapids with a brand new cliff jumping section added for the adventure junkies (optional). Complete your journey by tackling the famous 400m Dog Leg rapid – the longest commercially rafted rapid in New Zealand. Then head back to Rafting Base for a hot shower.
Additional Info
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Must be able to swim
Rafting while pregnant is prohibited
Rafting with any heart condition is prohibited
Minimum weight 40kg
Maximum weight 120kg
Minimum age is 13 years. Children aged between 13 and 15 years must be accompanied by a guardian
All travellers between the age of 16 and 17 years require a waiver to be signed by a guardian if they are unaccompanied
You must bring a swimsuit and towel
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
First your jet boat will race down the river to your next mode of transport, packing in those famous 360 spins and dramatic canyon walls as you discover the Kawarau River and it's pristine wilderness. After 30 mins jump straight into a raft to complete the last section of the river. Raft through grade 2-3 rapids, take in the beautiful views, choose to join in on the optional rock jumping section for added fun (1hr raft time) Please note for safety we have minimum weight restriction of 40 kg and maximum weight of 120 kg to participate.
What‘s Included
Jet Boat ride to the rafting put-in point
Use of hot showers
Wetsuit, rafting clothing and all other equipment provided
Extensive safety instructions and paddling techniques
Food and drinks
Options
Kawarau Jet to Raft
2 Iconic Activities: Pair two of Queenstown's most iconic activities. Jet Boat and grade 2-3 whitewater rafting experience on the Kawarau River
Reviews
159 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Awesome
Sunshine68170325566,,Jan 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was really nice and fun. The river is beautiful, and the staff was awesome. Thanks!
This rafting trip...DO IT!
marciasails,,Jan 22, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This is a great combination! The jet boat ride disappointed but the rafting was terrific! Fun, professional and personable guides! We've experienced both venues before and the rafting was a must do!
You have to go on the river!
Anthony O,,Jan 20, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00What an absolutely awesome experience! We did the Kawarau River rafting and jet boat with our family, ranging in age from 15 through to adult children, and it was a hit with everyone. The experience was thrilling without being intimidating, making it perfect for families with teens and adults alike. The water was exciting, the scenery was stunning, and the whole adventure was incredibly well run. Our guide was outstanding—fun, knowledgeable, and made everyone feel safe and confident while keeping the energy high. From start to finish, the team were professional, friendly, and clearly passionate about what they do. It felt like a really well-organised operation that genuinely cares about giving people a great experience. A fantastic company, an unforgettable adventure, and a real highlight of our Queenstown trip. Highly recommend for families looking for something fun, exciting, and memorable!
Brilliant
234LindaH,,Jan 12, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had such an easy going and fun trip. Lovely guides well organised and entertaining. Jet boat was fast and exciting. Rafting was through gorgeous countryside, exciting and fun. Travelling with my daughter and we both enjoyed it greatly!
Great fun rafting in Queenstown
Theresa C,,Jan 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Booking, waivers, information was easily accessible on line. The Real NZ sent everything that was needed from waivers to confirmation. We felt well prepared and when we arrived, we were suited, and oriented for safety and off to jet boat in no time. We met the others after our jet boat and it was a blast. The only sad part is the pictures they took didn’t have any pictures of the rapids or boats going through them
Loved Real NZ rafting trip!
Curiosity61931830934,,Jan 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00My husband and adult son did the jet boat to rafting 1/2 day experience w RealNZ. It was terrific! In hindsight we would have skipped the jet boat and only done the rafting trip.(The jet boat was like a large jet ski that you couldnt control) the rafting was so beautiful and our guide Nico was great!
Wonderful rafting...
Scott S,,Jan 7, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Wonderful rafting experience with bonus jet boat ride. Nice mix of float and rapids on the raft. Very well organized and felt safe. Guide Matt was great and keep it fun the entire time. River is spectacular
Fantastic outing with a touch of adrenaline
Ciaobella77,,Jan 2, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a wonderful time with Matt on the raft and Jess on the jet boat. Felt well looked after and it was very well organised. My daughter found the rafting the most fun of our activities in Queenstown.
Exceptionally well run jet boat & raft combo
bartsR698RJ,,Dec 30, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This combo package was exceptionally well run from start to finish. Logistics were completely seamless between gearing up, transfers and timing between activities; all worked effortlessly, which made the whole outing very fun. The guides really made the day. Everyone was professional, fun and genuinely engaging, with great chemistry as a team. Morgan was my raft guide, she was confident, calm, and entertaining, with a great balance of clear instruction, humor, and local knowledge. The combo of strong teamwork and great personalities made this a standout experience.
Nico the guide from Chile is the best!
A5951NZac,,Dec 20, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00The rafting experience is short compared to other similar activities i have done in the rest of the world. However, our guide Nico (not sure if this is how it’s spelled), who is from Chile, did a very good and professional job maintaining safety, keeping good vibes and making sure we enjoyed!
From NZ$319.00
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Operated by RealNZ