Wairaurahiri Wilderness Jet has been running jet boat trips on the Wairaurahiri River for 36 years, with a 100% safety record. Their boats cover the full length of the river — New Zealand's most exciting Grade 3 whitewater — and across Lake Hauroko.
Their most popular trip for our guests combines a two-day walk on the South Coast Track with a jet boat ride out, finishing back at Rarakau. It's a brilliant way to see this stretch of Fiordland without having to walk the whole way back.
South Coast Track Walk & Jet Boat Combo
Start from Rarakau Lodge and hike the South Coast Track to Port Craig Village — 17 km, 6–7 hours. Overnight at the historic Port Craig schoolhouse. This day can be shortened by helicoptering in to Port Craig Beach instead — conditions apply, contact Wairaurahiri Wilderness Jet to arrange.
Follow the old logging tramway, crossing the Sandhill Viaduct, the huge Percy Burn Viaduct, then the Edwin and Francis Burn viaducts — 13 km, 4–5 hours. Meet the jet boat for 2 hours of Grade 3 rapids down the full length of the Wairaurahiri River and across Lake Hauroko, with transport back to Rarakau Lodge.
From $299pp. Already walking the Hump Ridge Track and want to add the jet boat ride up the Wairaurahiri River instead? Give Wairaurahiri Wilderness Jet a call and they'll sort it for you.
