Where the Southern Alps meet the churning Waiau River, Canterbury's undisputed adventure capital invites you to leap, spin and surge through some of the most dramatic gorge scenery on Earth.
Stand on the weathered timbers of the historic Waiau Ferry Bridge — a structure that has spanned this thundering gorge since 1888 — and surrender to gravity. The 35-metre plunge sends you hurtling toward the turquoise river below, the canyon walls blurring into streaks of grey schist and native bush. It is, without question, one of the South Island's most cinematic free-falls: raw, elemental, and utterly unforgettable.
After your leap, a jet boat collects you from the river — an adrenaline chaser that lets the magnitude of what you've just done truly sink in as the gorge opens up around you.
Skim across braided channels, slice through narrow rock passages, and brace yourself for heart-stopping 360-degree spins as a twin-engine jet boat carves its way through the Waiau River gorge. Over thirty exhilarating minutes, your skipper threads the needle between towering bluffs at breathtaking speed — close enough to the canyon walls to feel the mist on your face.
The Waiau's ever-changing braided channels mean no two rides are identical. Winter reveals an icy, moody gorge draped in frost; summer brings luminous turquoise water and birdsong echoing off the schist.
Paddle into the roar. Two and a half hours on the Waiau River's Grade 2 rapids deliver the perfect blend of wild, splashing excitement and jaw-dropping scenery — accessible enough for first-timers, yet thrilling enough to leave seasoned adventurers buzzing. Your guide navigates self-bailing inflatable rafts through frothing chutes and swirling eddies while towering beech forest and craggy bluffs slide past on either side.
Groups of two to twelve can raft together, making this one of the finest team adventures in the South Island. Wetsuits, helmets and all safety gear are provided — just bring your sense of daring.
Stack your thrills and save. These curated combos pair Hanmer's flagship activities at prices you won't find booking separately — leaving more in your pocket for a well-earned meal afterwards.
| Package | Includes | Price From | You Save |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jet + Bungy | Jet boat ride & 35m bungy jump | NZ$190 | $50+ |
| Triple Thriller | Jet boat, bungy jump & rafting | ~NZ$350 | Best value |
| Jet + Quad | Jet boat ride & quad bike tour | NZ$167 | $30+ |
Insider tip: Book your combo at the Thrillseekers Canyon base in person for the most flexibility. Walk-in availability is generally excellent, though summer weekends can get busy — arriving before 10 am guarantees your pick of time slots.
Beyond the big three, Hanmer Springs brims with ways to test your aim, your nerve, and your appetite for speed.
Channel your inner marksman on a purpose-built range surrounded by native bush. Suitable for all ages and experience levels, with expert coaching to sharpen your aim from the very first arrow.
Track, aim, fire. Hanmer's clay bird shooting range launches targets across a stunning mountain backdrop — a satisfying test of reflexes whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned shot.
Part go-kart, part rollercoaster. These gravity-powered rockets send you careening down a winding luge-style track at exhilarating speed — pure, unfiltered fun for the whole family.
Tear through backcountry trails on a rugged quad bike, splashing across streams and climbing ridgelines with panoramic views of the Hanmer Basin. See our dedicated Off-Road page for full details.