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Waikato River Jet Boat Ride from Taupo

1,463 Reviews 4.94 out of 5 stars Based on 1,463 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and TripAdvisor |
Recommended by 99% of reviewers
99% of reviewers gave this experience a rating of 4 or higher.
|
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards. Taupo, New Zealand
Book online or call us

from $89.15 per person

Lowest Price Guarantee
Waikato River Jet Boat Ride from Taupo Image 1
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Waikato River Jet Boat Ride from Taupo Image 5
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 29 (0) days in advance.
35 minutes (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Instant confirmation

Overview

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
See 2 more

Meeting Location

Meeting point

3 Nga Awa Purua Road
Rotokawa 3378, New Zealand

Show on Google Maps

Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

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

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Service animals allowed
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Minimum age is 5 years or 1 meter tall
  • Family Pass includes 2 Adults and 2 Children

Frequently Asked Questions (9)

Q: Will I get seasick on Waikato River Jet Boat Ride from Taupo?

A: If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy. Read more Feb 2023

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

We're here to help.
Activity code: C-57188P1

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.94
1,463 reviews

Average 4.94 out of 5 stars based on 1,463 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
1,388
4 stars
66
3 stars
6
2 stars
2
1 star
1
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 29 (0) days in advance.
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Frequently Asked Questions (9)

Activity name

The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Cool Shore Excursions customers.

Filter by:

Q: Will I get seasick on Waikato River Jet Boat Ride from Taupo?
A:

If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy.

Feb 2023
Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Waikato River Jet Boat Ride from Taupo?
A:
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.
  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (NZDT).
  • This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
Apr 2025
Q: What's included in the price?
A:
The following is included:
  • On-site parking and bathroom facilities.
  • Fitted life jackets.
  • Experienced local jet boat driver.
The following is NOT included:
  • Souvenir photos (available to purchase for NZ$45).
  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off.
Apr 2025
Q: What is the weather cancellation policy?
A:

This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Apr 2025
Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:

The minimum age to participate is 5. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..

Apr 2025
Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:

If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

Apr 2025
Q: Is this an accessible tour?
A:

Accessibility information for the Waikato River Jet Boat Ride from Taupo is as follows:

  • Service animals allowed
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Apr 2025
Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Waikato River Jet Boat Ride from Taupo will be included in your confirmation email from Cool Shore Excursions. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

 

 

Mar 2024
Q: How long does a refund take to reach my card, and can I get it faster?
A:

Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.

Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.

If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.

Oct 2026

What's Included

Activity name

  • 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

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Service animals allowed
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Minimum age is 5 years or 1 meter tall
  • Family Pass includes 2 Adults and 2 Children
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 14 travelers

Report Product Issue

Activity name