Arthur's Pass Day Tour From Christchurch with Jet Boat
Southern Alps, Christchurch
Activity
Official tickets via GetYourGuide
Get ready for 30 minutes of jet boat thrill on this Arthur's Pass tour! With heated handrails to keep you warm year-round, experience why these unique braided shallows were key to jet boating's birth.
Highlights
- Experience a 20-minute jet boat ride on the Waimakariri River
- Explore Castle Hill and Arthur's Pass
- Admire the Otira Viaduct Lookout
Description
Join us as we travel the Great Alpine Highway through the Canterbury plains, across braided rivers, and past famous filming locations to explore the jaw-dropping geology and geography of Castle Hill and Arthur’s Pass. You will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides and including a thrilling 20-minute jet boat experience, this journey is one you will never forget! As this tour operates in an alpine region, the weather can be unpredictable so please prepare for all conditions. Please note that this tour is not suitable as a shore excursion, and runs in reverse over winter Itinerary: Christchurch – We start by leaving Ōtautahi Christchurch, also known as New Zealand's Garden City. Springfield/Alpine Jet Thrills (45 minutes) - Continuing further, you will be greeted by Springfield, where we will then make our turn off towards the team at Alpine Jet Thrills. It is here that you will embark on your thrilling 20-minute jet boat ride across the braided shallows of the Waimakariri River! Take in the beautiful scenery from one of New Zealand’s most challenging and exhilarating rivers, and discover why Canterbury is the home of jet boating. Castle Hill (1 hour) - Castle Hill, or Kura Tāwhiti, is perhaps one of Canterbury’s most distinguishable settings. Weathered limestone rocks sit proudly abreast the tussocky hills that were once in the ocean. Over time they have eroded away, forming the amazing unique shapes you see today. Please note that this is not a guided walk, so you will be left to explore this piece of beauty on your own. Otira Gorge Lookout (15 minutes) - Also known as Death's Corner, the Otira Viaduct Lookout is an amazing spot to see the National Park in all its glory. With a bit of luck, you might even see a wee cheeky kea - New Zealand’s sneaky alpine parrot! Arthur’s Pass Village (1 hour) - Located 740 metres above sea level, you will be able to experience the majestic Southern Alps up close. Once we arrive, you can choose to either walk to Devils Punch Bowl, or grab a coffee and spend some time exploring the local shops. Devils Punch Bowl - This walking track is approximately 1 hour long, with a gradual incline (including steps) towards a ferocious 131-metre-tall waterfall. Fitness is low to moderate as you walk through the bush and native beech forest. Please note that depending on time, your guide will let you know how long you have and will assist you on the day in regard to the best activity for the weather and time allocated. Cave Stream (15 minutes) - As we begin our trip back to Christchurch, we make a brief stop at Cave Stream. Christchurch - As we exit Porters Pass, we make our way back to the Garden City. Please note additional stops are taken into consideration for toilet breaks.Includes
Small group size Carbon neutral tour of Arthur’s Pass from Christchurch Picture-perfect scenery - including Lakes Pearson and Lyndon, and Cave Stream 20-minute jet boat experience on the Waimakariri River Castle Hill Breathtaking views - including of the Otira Viaduct and Porters Pass Chance to spot kea in the wild! Lunch, bottled water, and Kiwi snacks WiFi and USB charging Commentary 100% Kiwi as experienceImportant Information
- Please note that Arthur's Pass is an alpine environment. The weather can change quickly and is unpredictable. Please ensure that you prepare for all conditions