A THUNDER JET BOAT RIDE

Thunder Jet Queenstown offers an unforgettable high-speed adventure across Lake Wakatipu and into the stunning Kawarau River. Experience world-class jet boating in the adventure capital of New Zealand as our skilled drivers perform thrilling spins and turns surrounded by breathtaking alpine scenery.

THE HISTORY

Discover the Thrill of Jet Boating – A True Kiwi Adventure!

Jetboating is a homegrown Kiwi invention. New Zealand's landscapes are home to many shallow waterways that are inaccessible to boats with propellers. The modern-day jet boat was developed by Sir William Hamilton (often referred to as Bill Hamilton) in 1954. He came up with the idea of using a jet of water to propel a boat forward while on a fishing trip with his father. His design was remarkably successful and revolutionised boating in New Zealand, transforming fast-flowing, shallow rivers into thrilling adventures waiting to be explored.

Thanks to innovative Kiwi ingenuity, New Zealand's rivers have been transformed into thrilling playgrounds for adventurers from all over the world marking New Zealand as the global hub of jet boating.

THE KAWARAU RIVER

The name "Kawarau" originates from a Māori term meaning “channel between rocks"

The Kawarau River is a gem of Otago, brimming with charm and excitement it's renowned for its historical significance, tracing back to the gold rush era when fortune-seekers flocked to its shimmering waters. Today, it has transformed into a hub for thrill-seekers, offering activities like jet boating, white-water rafting, and the world-famous Kawarau Bridge Bungy - the birthplace of modern bungy jumping!

Beyond the adventure, the river’s natural beauty is mesmerising, with its turquoise waters, stunning alpine scenery and dramatic high cliffs.

OUR BOATS

Our boats are state of the art technology, with twin V8 engines, totalling 820 horsepower to get you cruising at up to 95kmph in no time.

Some features of our powerful jet boats include:

  • 820 horsepower twin V8 Engines

  • Marine sound system

  • Hamilton Jets 213 jet pumps

  • Self-draining deck

  • Built in floatation tanks

EXPERIENCE QUEENSTOWNS ULTIMATE JET BOAT ADVENTURE

Blast across Lake Wakatipu and down the mighty Kawarau River at thrilling speeds of up to 95kph. Hold on tight as our skilled drivers take you through high-speed spins, drifts, and rapid turns surrounded by Queenstown’s stunning alpine scenery. Thunder Jet is pure adrenaline and 100% Queenstown fun — an unmissable adventure for thrill-seekers of all ages.

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