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This tour combines a jet boat ride and canoeing on the Dart River in UNESCO World Heritage-listed Mount Aspiring National Park in one day. Ride a jet boat upstream along glacier-formed channels, then paddle slowly back downstream in a Funyak, an inflatable canoe. Along the way, enjoy a picnic lunch by the river and hear stories from your local guide about Māori history and filming locations from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. You can choose between an option with return transport from Queenstown and an option where you make your own way to Glenorchy.

Discover the Dart River
by jet boat and canoe
With the Queenstown departure option, the day begins with a scenic drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy. With the Glenorchy option, the tour starts right after you check in at the Dart River base in Glenorchy. Throughout the day, you head deep into Mount Aspiring National Park and experience the wilderness around the Dart River.
Jet boat up the Dart River

Surrounded by majestic mountain scenery, ride a jet boat upstream along the winding, glacier-formed channels of the Dart River. Your guide comes along and provides commentary.
Paddle downstream in a Funyak

Upstream, switch to a Funyak, a stable inflatable canoe designed for exploring remote areas. Paddle downstream at a relaxed pace, stopping along the way to explore hidden tributaries, native beech forest and untouched wilderness.
Midway through the trip, relax with a picnic lunch on a secluded riverbank in the national park. Lunch is buffet-style with bread, salads, a variety of meats, cakes and fruit.
Return through Paradise with stories from your guide

Your local guide shares stories about Māori history, the ancient greenstone trails, and famous filming locations from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. End the day with a bus journey across the countryside of Paradise, known for its movie scenery, before returning to Queenstown.
※ A minimum of 8 participants is required. If the minimum is not met, you will be moved to the next departure, offered an alternative experience where possible, or given a full refund.
※ Return transport from Queenstown is included only if you select that option.
Meeting point :
Dart River base, Glenorchy (Glenorchy option)
45 Mull Street, Glenorchy
Meeting point information:
If you are making your own way to Glenorchy, please check in with the Dart River team at the river base 15 minutes before your booked time.
Meeting point :
The Station Building, Queenstown (Queenstown departure option)
The Station Building, Queenstown
Meeting point information:
If you selected transport from Queenstown, check in with the Dart River team inside The Station Building.
45 Mull Street, Glenorchy, New Zealand