The Iconic NZ Experience: Jet Boating in Christchurch

Looking for adventure in Christchurch? Look no further! Christchurch is a beautiful city with stunning landscapes and thrilling activities. One of the most adrenaline-pumping experiences you can have while visiting this city is jet boating with Alpine Jet Thrills in Springfield. Below is my experience going jet boating on the Waimakariri River.

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Adventure on a jet boat with Alpine Jet Thrills just outside of Christchurch

Jet boating is an exciting water sport involving a high-speed ride through waterways while maneuvering in a boat. In this article, we will take you on a journey through our jet boating adventure near Christchurch and share some highlights that make this experience unforgettable.

OFF TO JET BOAT WORLD JUST OUTSIDE OF CHRISTCHURCH

After making our way to Springfield, we arrived at the Alpine Jet Thrills base, where we had the pleasant surprise of seeing some sheep, as the jet boat facility was on a working sheep farm. We were greeted by friendly staff members who checked us in and gave us life jackets for safety.

After a brief introduction about the boat and what to expect on the ride, we followed the team down to the Waimakariri River, our destination for the jet boating adventure.

Alpine Jet Thrills highlights

  • Duration of trip is 1 hour
  • Full commentary by your jet boat guide about the history of jet boating
  • Discussion on the natural history of the Waimakariri River
  • Excellent photo opportunities
  • Costs for families NZ$560 (2 adults, 2 children, +1 free child)
  • NZ$155 per adult over 16 years old
  • $125 for persons 5 to 15 years old
  • Dress warm
  • If you want to get a little wet take the front seats!

PREPARING FOR SAFETY

Before hopping on board, we received a safety talk that included instructions such as keeping our arms in the boat and holding on to the inside railing of the boat when necessary. After the instructions were given, we were ready to climb into the boat and take off.

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JET BOATING ADVENTURE IN CHRISTCHURCH ON THE WAIMAKARIRI RIVER

As we started moving along the Waimakariri River, our adrenaline began to pump in our veins. The first thing we noticed was the stunning scenery surrounding us. The turquoise water sparkled in the sunlight as we raced along the riverbank.

The boat would rush towards cliffs before turning sharply, sending us spinning in the opposite direction. The driver put on a fantastic show as he expertly navigated through the water, making us scream excitedly at every turn. We did several “Hamilton spins,” 360-degree boat spins named after jet boat pioneer and inventor Bill Hamilton.

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Holding on tight as we navigate the Waimakariri River

THE THRILL OF JET BOATING

The jet boating adventure near Christchurch was like nothing we had ever experienced before. We felt the wind on our faces as we raced across the river at exhilarating speeds. The boat twisted and turned, sending splashes of water all around us.

We could not help but laugh out loud and scream in joy as the adrenaline rushed through our veins. When we thought we had reached the peak of the excitement, the driver would take us by surprise with a sudden twist or turn, and we would find ourselves holding onto each other and screaming again.

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Stopping for a photo while jet boating

DO NOT MISS THIS ADVENTURE NEAR CHRISTCHURCH

Jet boating with Alpine Jet Thrills in Springfield is an unforgettable adventure we highly recommend to anyone visiting Christchurch. From the moment we arrived at the base to the end of the adventure, we were left feeling exhilarated and enthralled. Since our family was cruising on Holland America Noordam from Australia, we were picked up at Port Chalmers.

The scenic views and the boat ride’s speed, twists, and turns made it an adventure of a lifetime. It was an experience we would never forget, and neither will you. So, pack your bags and head to Christchurch for a day filled with adventure and great memories. Our family was on the trip with several others, and every person said it was the best activity they’d done in New Zealand!