Jet Boat Itineraries by Campervan: North Island, South Island and Short Loops
Quick summary: These campervan and motorhome itineraries link New Zealand’s jet boat destinations into road trips. Ride the harbour, the Bay of Islands and the Waikato River on the North Island trail, follow the South Island trail from Christchurch’s gorges to Fiordland and Queenstown, loop through Canterbury’s rivers in four days, or spend five days around Queenstown, Wānaka and Te Anau.
| Itinerary | Length | Start and finish | Jet boat rides |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Island jet boat trail | 8 days | Auckland loop | Auckland, Bay of Islands, Rotorua, Lake Rotoiti, Taupō |
| South Island jet boat trail | 10 days | Christchurch to Queenstown, via Te Anau | Waimakariri, Waiau Uwha, Haast, Wānaka, Queenstown, Te Anau |
| Christchurch, Hanmer and Kaikōura loop | 4 days | Christchurch loop | Waimakariri, Waiau Uwha, Kaikōura |
| Queenstown, Wānaka and Te Anau in 5 days | 5 days | Queenstown loop | Shotover, Dart, Clutha, Waiau |
How many jet boat rides should you plan on one RV trip?
Two or three is plenty for most travellers, choosing different styles: a canyon thrill ride, a wilderness river trip and perhaps a scenic lake or waterfall ride. Each itinerary lists several options so you can pick the ones that suit you.
Do the itineraries leave time for other activities?
Yes. Jet boat rides are short, so each day has time for walks, hot pools, wineries or other sights along the way.
For the full overview, see our jet boating by campervan hub.
Frequently Asked Questions
The South Island jet boat trail, from Christchurch’s gorges to Haast, Wānaka, Queenstown and Te Anau, covers the most famous rides.
Two or three rides in different styles, such as a canyon ride, a wilderness trip and a waterfall ride, give a good variety.
Yes. The four-day Canterbury loop and the five-day southern lakes loop both include several rides.