PriceFrom $299 NZD
Duration4 hours
Rating★★★★★4.7(3400)
About This Experience
The Shotover River isn't just another rafting trip – it's the holy grail of white water adventures, accessible only by helicopter because the canyon walls are too steep and remote for any other entry. I've watched countless visitors' faces transform from nervous anticipation to pure euphoria as they drop into this dramatic gorge, carved deep into Central Otago's schist rock over millions of years. The helicopter ride alone is worth the price, swooping down through towering canyon walls that rise 200 meters straight up, giving you that first spine-tingling glimpse of the churning rapids below.
Highlights
- ✓Exclusive helicopter access into the remote canyon – the only way in or out
- ✓Navigate Grade 3-5 rapids including the infamous 'Mother' and 'Toilet' rapids
- ✓Raft through the historic 170-meter Oxenbridge Tunnel blasted through solid rock
- ✓25 kilometers of continuous white water through 200-meter high canyon walls
- ✓Expert guides with decades of river experience and local storytelling
- ✓Dramatic schist rock formations carved over millions of years
- ✓Historic gold mining sites visible throughout the canyon
- ✓Small group sizes ensuring personalized attention and safety
✓What's Included
- Helicopter transport to and from the canyon
- Professional rafting guide
- All safety equipment including helmet, life jacket, and paddle
- Wetsuit and thermal layers
- Hot shower facilities post-trip
- Souvenir t-shirt
- Professional photos available for purchase
✗Not Included
- Hotel transfers
- Food and beverages
- Professional photos (available for additional cost)
- Gratuities for guides
- Personal items and clothing
- Travel insurance
⚠What to Know Before You Go
- Minimum age 13 years
- Good physical fitness and swimming ability required
- Maximum weight limit 120kg (265lbs)
- Pregnant women not permitted
- No serious medical conditions or recent injuries
- Must be comfortable in helicopter and water environments
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable unless due to weather conditions or operator safety concerns. Weather-related cancellations will be rescheduled or fully refunded.
From $299 NZD
4 hours
Traveller rating4.8 / 5
Based on 374 reviews
Ratings collected by Viator and Tripadvisor
Meeting Point
Shotover Jet Base, Arthurs Point Road, Queenstown. Free parking available on-site. Check in 30 minutes before departure time.
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raftingadventureshotoverwater sportshelicopterwhite watercanyonextreme sportsadrenalinescenic flighthistoric tunnelgrade 5 rapids
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