Fiordland: Jet Boat Journey & Guided Walk with Local Stories

Summary

Fiordland jet boat ride with nature walk and local guide stories

You’ll feel Fiordland’s wild side on this jet boat journey from Te Anau: race down crystal-clear rivers with a local guide, pause for birdsong and hidden film locations, then step ashore for a guided walk among mossy trees before heading back with windblown hair and a grin.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the river to be that clear — you could see right down to the stones, even as we zipped along in the jet boat. The morning started in Te Anau, where we shuffled into spray coats and life jackets (I grabbed gloves too, just in case). Our guide, Jamie, had this way of making everyone relax — cracking jokes about Kiwis never feeling the cold. I laughed but kept my gloves on anyway. By the time we reached Queens Reach and stepped onto the boat, I was already grinning like a kid.

The Fiordland air hit different out there — sharp and clean, almost sweet. As we sped down the Upper Waiau River, Jamie pointed out spots from Lord of the Rings (I think I missed half of them because I was busy watching trout dart under us). At one point he cut the engine and let us drift; suddenly it was just birdsong and the soft slap of water against the hull. Someone tried to name a bird in Māori and Jamie gently corrected him — everyone laughed. It felt like being let in on a local secret.

Then Lake Manapouri opened up in front of us. It’s hard to describe how quiet it got — like even our group didn’t want to break it. We got off for a short walk through thick green bush; moss everywhere, everything damp and alive. Jamie showed us how to spot tiny orchids hiding near tree roots. My shoes got muddy but I didn’t care (should’ve worn older ones though). On the way back upriver there were spins and big splashes — someone shrieked behind me and then couldn’t stop laughing. That part still makes me smile when I think about it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Jet boat tour and nature walk

• Start at Te Anau office
• Get fitted with spray coat and gear
• Drive through Southland farms
• Board boat at Queens Reach Boat Ramp
• Attend safety briefing
• Travel down Upper Waiau River
• Learn about local history and wildlife
• Spot trout and film locations
• Experience high-speed spins on boat
• Enter Lake Manapouri and enjoy silence
• Disembark for guided nature stroll
• Return by boat up river for more fun

Top questions

How long is the Fiordland jet boat tour?

The experience includes both boating and a guided walk; allow several hours for the full outing.

Is hotel pickup included for this Fiordland jet boat ride?

No hotel pickup is included, but there’s free parking at the Te Anau lakefront meeting point.

What should I wear for the Fiordland jet boat trip?

Wear comfortable closed-toe shoes; cold weather gear like hats and gloves are provided if needed.

Are children or infants allowed on this jet boat tour?

Yes, all ages are welcome; infants must sit on an adult’s lap or use specialized seats provided.

Is this more of an adventure ride or sightseeing tour?

This is a mix: you get high-speed fun plus time to explore nature quietly with your guide.

Do you see wildlife during the Fiordland jet boat journey?

You may spot trout in the river and hear native birds during stops along the way.

What’s included

Your day includes all safety gear—spray coat, life jacket, hats or gloves if it’s chilly—and an easy start from Te Anau lakefront with secure storage for your things before heading out by van to Queens Reach ramp. The guided nature walk is suitable for everyone and well-formed underfoot.