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Immerse yourself in an authentic New Zealand experience in some of the world’s most stunning scenery.

Explore the iconic, untouched landscapes of the Dart River Valley and the Te Wāhipounamu - South West New Zealand UNESCO World Heritage Area of Mount Aspiring National Park. This is the region's longest jet boat ride, guided by local experts who share the stories of the land. If seeing true, pure New Zealand is on your bucket list – then Dart River Adventures is a must-do activity.

Jet boat driver talking to passengers looking to river ahead

Wilderness Jet Experience

Our original Wilderness Jet Experience is full of exhilarating jet-boat action, awe-inspiring scenery, and expert commentary. A scenic jet boat ride like no other in the region! Departing from Glenorchy, you'll venture into the depths of Te Wāhipounamu - South West New Zealand World Heritage Area. Travel along the braided Dart River through iconic landscapes, towering mountain ranges and ancient native forests. Our knowledgeable and passionate drivers make this half-day adventure one that you will never forget.

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Girl paddling inflatable kayak through narrow rocky waterway

Funyaks Experience

See first-hand why Aotearoa (New Zealand) is famous for its stunning natural beauty. This full-day tour includes the jet boat ride and our signature Funyaks. With both lunch and return transport between Glenorchy and Queenstown, the Funyaks Experience is a full day out! Find the hidden streams and chasms along the Dart River and take time to explore. Don't just take a jet boat ride – clamber into a Funyak to get up close and personal with Aotearoa. Enjoy a provided lunch while soaking up New Zealand’s finest views.

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Pristine glaceir fed rivers flanked by ancient beech forest

About the Dart River

Journey with us to an ancient landscape, undisturbed for thousands of years. The braided Dart River (Te Awa Whakatipu) flows for 60km from the heart of Mount Aspiring National Park, until it reaches the northern tip of Lake Whakatipu near Glenorchy. In summer, the Dart River Valley’s lush native beech forests are buzzing with life. Our jet boat experience puts you in the heart of things – the crystal clear waterways sparkle in the sun and the sense of adventure is palpable.

The Dart River Wilderness Jet, with the impressive background of Mt Aspiring National Park

Winter sees snow-capped mountains frame the Dart River, and every turn offers postcard-worthy views. The crisp air and cold waters hold the stories of our ancestors and make for a truly moving wilderness experience. No matter the season, the Dart River is ripe with adventure and boasts scenery that will take your breath away year-round. Whether you opt for our classic Wilderness Adventure or our Funyaks Experience, our guided tours will teach you about the amazing Dart River Valley, and leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

Experience

Our team spend years training to become Dart River guides. Their expertise on the jet boats, as tour guides, and in the local area make Dart River Adventures so special. With many years under our belts, we know the Glenorchy region like the backs of our hands.

Every adventure is different. The glacier-fed river means that water levels and access changes frequently. We get to share different parts of this unique landscape every day. Ngāi Tahu—the local Iwi—is proud to share this impressive slice of Te Wāhipounamu with people from all over the world.

These incredible glacial landscapes are recognised as some of the best in the world. The only way to see them is with Dart River Adventures.
Qualmark Certified
As a gold-tier Qualmark certified tourism service provider, Dart River Adventures is proud to uphold the three main components of Tourism New Zealand’s accreditation:
- Light footprint: An environmentally friendly and holistically sustainable experience.
- Safe and sound: Where safe principles and practices are part of every experience.
- Warm welcome: Where you will always find a genuine welcome and true New Zealand hospitality.
Sustainability
At Dart River Adventures, we believe that taking a long-term view of sustainable operations can ensure our children’s children and the generations beyond will enjoy the whenua as we do today. So we have taken the Tiaki Promise to:
- Care for land, sea, and nature. Treading lightly and leaving no trace.
- Travel safely, showing care and consideration for all.
- Respect culture, travelling with an open heart and mind.
We work alongside the Routeburn Dart Wildlife Trust, the Electric Jet Boat Project, and the Department of Conservation to make more sustainable and climate-conscious business choices where we can. The Tiaki Promise we have undertaken informs all our decision-making, and the Ngāi Tahu iwi guides us on people and future-focused vision for generations to come.

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