When too much action is never enough, make sure you add heli-rafting to your New Zealand extreme sports itinerary.
This unique experience, hosted by Queenstown Rafting, combines a high-flying helicopter ride with an adrenalin-packed white-water rafting adventure.
Queenstown Rafting offers two heli-rafting trips. The first flies across the Wakatipu Basin and Coronet Peak ski fields before reaching the stunning Shotover River. When viewing them from the air, you may be a little nervous about tackling the rapids! They’re actually graded from three to five, so novices may want to steer clear. If you’ve got the stomach for it though, this is the tour to take. The journey through the pitch-black Oxenbridge Tunnel, as well as all those twists and turns, makes for one wild ride.
Rafting down the Kawarau River, Queenstown
If you’re a first timer consider the tamer trip down the Kawarau River. You might recognize this stretch of water as River Anduin from The Lord of the Rings film trilogy. There’s plenty of white water, but also enough time to soak up the scenery. The helicopter trip is just as beautiful with views of the Gibbston Valley wine region and The Remarkables.
Heli-rafting rides cost NZD$295 per person. This price includes transfers to and from Queenstown, wetsuit and safety equipment hire, and the use of hot showers and a sauna once you’re done. The tour is appropriate for water-confident children aged 13 and weighing at least 40 kilos, although kids between 13 and 17 must ride with a guardian.
