The Wilderness Safari
Go back to the roots of jet boating with the Wilderness Safari, a premium tour designed for those who want to explore where standard tours can’t go. This experience takes you beyond the main channels and into the intricate, shallow braids of the Hanmer Springs Basin.
Utilizing smaller, specialized boats, this tour offers a more intimate and agile connection to the river. You’ll navigate tight waterways and shallow streams, showcasing the true capability of New Zealand jet boating engineering. But it’s not just about the ride—this is an immersive experience.
The Wilderness Safari includes an exclusive stop at Marble Point, where you can disembark to explore the fascinating geological fault line. It’s a photographer’s dream, offering majestic, uninterrupted views of the mountain scenery that defines the region.
Highlights:
Exclusive Access: Explores the smaller, shallow river braids of the Hanmer Basin that larger boats can’t reach.
Marble Point Stop: Get off the boat to walk the fault line and take in the stunning surroundings.
True Jet Boating: Experience the agility of smaller vessels designed for “skinny water” boating.
Majestic Scenery: A slower-paced (but still thrilling) way to appreciate the alpine beauty.
- Our Jet Boat experience includes approximately 30 minutes on the river
- A minimum age of 3 years applies (participants aged 15 years and under must be accompanied on the activity by an adult aged 16 years or over), and all guests must fit safety equipment
- We supply life jackets and a full-length spray jacket
- Photos and GoPro video footage of your Jet Boat ride can be purchased at an additional cost
- Our onsite snack bar supplies drinks, ice creams, snacks and light meals
- Our health & safety practices have been assessed by independent outdoor safety experts and we are AdventureMark Safety Certified.
- Hanmer Springs Attractions reserves the right to refuse participation should any person be affected by alcohol, medication or any other substance such that they may be a risk to themselves or others.
You’ll find us at 839 Hanmer Springs Road, just past the turnoff towards Hanmer Springs from State Highway 7 and just before the Waiau Ferry Bridge. There’s a large carpark with plenty of parking for cars, campervans, and coaches.
For your convenience, we offer complimentary pick-up and drop-off from most accommodation providers in Hanmer Springs on request. Please contact our reservations team at least 24 hours prior to your booking date to organise this service.
Please note that visitors to our attractions must be aware of elements of risk inherently involved with our activities, and are included in our activity waivers as well as detailed in the link below.
Looking for photos and video of your Jet Boating experience? You’ll find them via the link below!
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