Top Hanmer Springs On the Water

Thrill-seeking travelers will love zooming along the Wairau River on a 35-minute jet boat ride. Hold on tight as you race through rapids, squeeze through canyons, and rush over the shallows of the braided river. Admire the views along the way and take pictures during some of the calmer moments.

Challenge yourself against the choppy Waiau River on this family-friendly 2-hour rafting adventure in Hanmer Springs. Choose a morning or afternoon tour, then pull on your wetsuit, grab your paddle and head out onto the swirling Waiau River with a guide. During your tour, navigate the bumpy grade II rapids and enjoy breathtaking views over the soaring peaks and marble land formations. Watch the waters for salmon and trout as a guide sheds light on the region’s rich folklore, and perhaps enjoy a refreshing swim along the way.