Jet Boat and Hot Pools Day Tour from Christchurch

Race through river canyons, then soak in warm thermal water

A fully guided day tour from Christchurch that pairs a 45-minute jet boat ride through Rakaia Gorge with a two-hour soak in the adults-exclusive Tranquility Pools at Ōpuke Thermal Pools & Spa in Methven. You'll speed beneath limestone cliffs and through river canyons, then unwind in warm water, with lunch and a drink at Ōpuke included, plus a complimentary drink at the Blue Pub before the return to Christchurch.

Step-by-step itinerary

Jet boat ride and hot pools relaxation

• Travel through Canterbury countryside
• Enjoy 45-minute jet boat ride
• Relax at Ōpuke Thermal Pools & Spa
• Have lunch at Ōpuke
• Drink at Blue Pub in Methven
• Return to Christchurch

What’s included

• 45-minute jet boat ride at Rakaia Gorge.
• two-hour soak in the adults-exclusive Tranquility Pools at Ōpuke.
• lunch at Ōpuke.
• one drink at Ōpuke and a complimentary drink at the Blue Pub in Methven.
• comfortable minibus transport and hotel pickup from Christchurch.

Times

• Monday to Friday 08:00

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Before you book

Group Up to 18

Live guide English

Meeting point and pickup Hotel pickup included. You can choose from 14 pickup points.

Ages Adult (12 to 85 years) · Child (6 to 11 years) · Under 6: can't be booked

Cancellation and refunds Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund. It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Good to know

Low physical effort Public transport nearby Not recommended with heart problems Not recommended with back problems

Operated by Discover Christchurch

Prices and times updated today

Traveler reviews

5.00 ★★★★★ Exceptional 1 verified traveler review

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The experience

The day starts with a drive through Canterbury countryside to Rakaia Gorge, where you board a jet boat for 45 minutes of high-speed river racing. The boat navigates the braided river beneath towering limestone cliffs and through narrow canyons, with spins built into the run. After the ride, you head to Methven and Ōpuke Thermal Pools & Spa for a two-hour soak in the Tranquility Pools: an adults-only section where the warm water is the whole point.

Lunch happens at Ōpuke after you've finished in the pools, and a complimentary drink waits for you at the Blue Pub in Methven on the way back to Christchurch. Pete, your guide for the day, handles all the logistics: hotel pickup, the minibus ride, and every detail in between. The whole outing runs about nine hours from start to finish.

Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (6 to 11 years). Children under 6 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

Can I book spa treatments at Ōpuke while I'm there?

Spa treatments at Ōpuke can be booked separately, subject to availability. Your ticket includes the two-hour soak in the Tranquility Pools and one drink. Additional treatments and food beyond lunch are available for purchase on the day.

What's the age requirement for the jet boat?

Children must be at least six years old to ride the jet boat. Children under five cannot join this tour.

Is this tour accessible if I use a wheelchair?

The tour can accommodate guests with mobility needs who are able to safely enter and exit the jet boat themselves. If you have questions about your specific situation, contact the operator before booking.