3 Epic Queenstown Water Activities

From scoffing Ferg Burger to shredding the Remarkables and kicking it in a bar for some après ski local vino, Queenstown has a hell of a lot to offer. Part of that offering is the Queenstown water activities, which sounds formal and boring, but is anything but.

We look at the 3 Queenstown water activities you simply must do when in town. You’d be a fool not to… a killjoy, grinchy, no fun-loving fool.

Shotover Jet

They say the Shotover Jet is the world’s most exciting jet boat ride, and to be completely honest, they’re right. Picture a rocketship engine strapped to a speedboat, captained by a nutcase and driven at breakneck speeds through 10cm deep water and rocky ravines. That’s the world’s most exciting jet boat ride. Giddy-up.

The Shotover Jet has been whipping people through the rocky outcrops, crags and boulders of the Shotover River Canyons at 85kph since 1965. They’ve given a fright/adrenaline rush to over 3 million people in that time, so they must be doing something right.

Dart River Kayak

Accompanied by a professional guide, you can paddle a “Funyak” (a Dart River kayak) through the crystal clear and often insanely turquoise waters deep into the world heritage area of Mount Aspiring National Park. The inflatable canoes let you cruise through the hidden side streams, rock pools and dramatic chasms that make up this magical part of the world that was used to illustrate Middle Earth. Definitely, bring your camera.

Note – make sure you make a booking before you go. This is very popular and in peak season is can be booked weeks in advance.

Milford Sound

Now, Milford Sound isn’t exactly in Queenstown, but a full-day tour is a solid option for those using Queenstown as their base.

Milford Sound is arguably New Zealand’s most stunning natural attraction. Sitting deep within Fiordland National Park, it combines mountain peaks, enchanting waters, waterfalls and dramatic cliffs. “Untouched” in the true sense of the word, this has to be added to the list.

words by niall roeder