Waikato River Jet Boat Ride from Taupo

4.9
(1,476 reviews)
Taupo, New Zealand

35 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: English

Experience the Waikato River like nowhere else with AWA – Manutaki (Previously Rapids Jet), an exhilarating 35-minute jet boat adventure through the heart of Ngāti Tahu–Ngāti Whaoa tribal lands.

Enjoy exclusive access to New Zealand's largest commercially jet-boated rapids as you speed through narrow canyons, experience thrilling 360-degree spins and ride the powerful pressure waves of the Nga Awa Purua Rapids.

Discover stunning geothermal landscapes, native bush and iconic filming locations from The Hobbit, while your local guide shares stories of the awa and its cultural significance.

With multiple departure times throughout the day and a maximum of 14 guests per boat, Manutaki combines adrenaline, natural beauty and connection to the river in one unforgettable adventure.

What's Included

On-site parking and bathroom facilities
Fitted life jackets
Experienced local jet boat driver
Souvenir photos (available to purchase for NZ$45)
Hotel pick-up and drop-off

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
3 Nga Awa Purua Road
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What to expect

Feel the heartbeat of the Waikato River with AWA – Manutaki (Previously Rapids Jet), an exhilarating 35-minute jet boat adventure through the heart of Ngāti Tahu–Ngāti Whaoa tribal lands.

Speed through the Waikato River's narrowest canyon, experience thrilling 360-degree spins and ride the powerful pressure waves of the Nga Awa Purua Rapids – New Zealand's largest commercially jet-boated rapids.

Along the way, discover the natural beauty of the Aratiatia Scenic Reserve, geothermal landscapes and iconic filming locations from The Hobbit, while your local guide shares stories of the river, its history and cultural significance.

An unforgettable adventure combining adrenaline, nature and connection to the awa.

Additional info

  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Service animals allowed
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Minimum age is 5 years or 1 meter tall
Supplied by Rapids Jet
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Tags

Extreme Sports
Jet Boat Rentals
On the Water
Small Group
Excellent Quality
Top Product
Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

4.9 Based on 1476 1476 reviews
5 stars
1393
4 stars
69
3 stars
9
2 stars
3
1 star
2
from per person
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