Lake Wanaka | Must Do New Zealand

Wilkin River Jet Boat & Backcountry Helicopters

Experience Makarora's Siberia Valley Wilderness Adventure

Explore Mount Aspiring National Park with Wilkin River Jets & Backcountry Helicopters

Nestled amidst the awe-inspiring mountains of Mount Aspiring National Park, Wilkin River Jets offers adventure for everyone in Makarora, New Zealand’s South Island.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker craving an adrenaline rush or a seasoned tramper seeking a convenient and scenic transport option, Wilkin River Jets has you covered.

Thrill-seekers, rejoice! We specialise in exhilarating shallow-water jet boating experiences on the Wilkin and Makarora Rivers, skimming inches above the crystal-clear water and navigating dramatic gorges.

Our experienced guides will lead you on an unforgettable journey, weaving tales of the region’s rich history and geology as you witness breathtaking scenery from a unique perspective.

Tramper’s Paradise: Wilkin River Jets is a vital link for trampers tackling the world-renowned Gillespie Pass Circuit.

Our convenient jet boat pickups and drop-offs shave off significant walking distances and allow you to focus on the heart-pounding hikes and breathtaking vistas.

Partnering with Adventure: For an even more extraordinary experience, Wilkin River Jets proudly collaborates with Backcountry Helicopters.

Combine your exhilarating jet boat ride with a breathtaking helicopter flight, soaring above the majestic peaks and glaciers of Mount Aspiring National Park.

This exclusive combo adventure caters to those seeking an unparalleled exploration of this breathtaking wilderness.

Jet Boat Ride on the Wilkin and the mighty Makarora Rivers.

Price: $160 pp – Child: $110 pp
Departs: Select when booking
Duration: Allow 1 hour.

Experience the ultimate in shallow water jet boating, skimming along in just inches of water on not one but two rivers. The Wilkin and the mighty Makarora.

Learn about the history and geology of this stunning region with an informative and entertaining commentary from our experienced drivers.

Enjoy a 50 km wilderness river journey amidst native beech forest, pristine river valleys and rugged ice capped mountains.

Jet boat drop off from Makarora to Kerin Forks (Wilkin Valley)

Price: $140 pp
Departs: Select when booking
Duration: 30 minutes.

Drop off from Makarora to Kerin Forks. 1 person plus 1 pack. Min of 5 to make a trip. Please check in 30 min before departure.

If you have under the min number we will work you in with a trip already going. Tickets are non-refundable.

Jet boat pick up from Kerin Forks (Wilkin Valley) to Makarora

Price: $140 pp
Departs: Select when booking
Duration: 30 minutes.

One way pick up from Kerin Forks to Makarora 1 person plus 1 pack. Min of 5 to make a trip. Please check in 30 min before departure.

If you have under the min number we will work you in with a trip already going. Tickets are non refundable

Jet boat drop off from Makarora to the Young Mouth

Price: $30 pp
Departs: Select when booking
Duration: 10 minutes.

Drop off from our office in Makarora to the Young mouth via Jetboat. Start or finish the Gillespie Pass track with dry feet! Access for trampers hunters and recreational users of the Mt Aspring National Park.

Backcountry Adventures Await in Makarora, New Zealand

Embark on an unparalleled adventure into the heart of New Zealand’s breathtaking Southern Alps with Backcountry Helicopters. As the premier helicopter tour company in Makarora, we specialize in showcasing the region’s stunning scenery and providing access to hidden gems that are otherwise unreachable.

Soar above the ordinary with our exceptional helicopter tours:

Panoramic Flights: Experience breathtaking aerial views of Mount Aspiring National Park, glaciers, alpine lakes, and remote valleys.
Heli-Hiking: Combine a thrilling helicopter flight with a guided hike through pristine wilderness.
Jet Boat Adventures: Embark on a white-water jet boat ride down the Makarora or Wilkin Rivers after your scenic helicopter flight.
Luxury Lodge Fly-ins: Access exclusive backcountry lodges in style and comfort.

We offer a variety of customizable tours to cater to your interests and preferences, making your Makarora experience truly unforgettable.

Book today’ and let’s craft your dream wilderness experience!

Heli Siberia

Duration: 5 Hours approx
Price: $599 pp (2 pax minimum)

If you are looking for that must-do activity in New Zealand our Heli Siberia adventures are it! Start your adventure from Makarora with an exciting 15-minute helicopter experience taking in elevated views of the iconic Siberia valley.

From there, enjoy a 3-hour wilderness hike on a well-marked track. Finish your trip with Wilkin River Jets for a thrilling jet boat ride through the icy blue waters of the Wilkin and Makarora rivers back to base.

Heli Siberia Max

Duration: 5 Hours approx
Price: $799 pp (2 pax minimum)

Start your adventure from Makarora with an exciting 25-minute helicopter experience taking in elevated views of the iconic Siberia valley.

Heli & Jet Boat Combo

Duration: 1 Hour approx
Price: $599 pp (2 pax minimum)

Short on time? Skip the hike with our Fly/Jet Boat Combo. Choose either of the flight times and following the scenic flight, we will drop you to Kerin Forks for a thrilling and informative river jet ride on two wilderness rivers, back to base. Perfect for all fitness levels and ages.

Heli Mix - Jet Combo

Duration: 1 Hours approx
Price: $799 pp (2 pax minimum)

Choose either of the Heli Siberia flights and following the scenic flight, we will drop you to Kerin Forks for a thrilling and informative river jet ride through the icy blue waters of the Wilkin and Makarora rivers back to base.

Local Explorer Scenic Flight

Duration: 30 Minutes approx
Price: $495 pp (2 pax minimum)

Begin your flight at Makarora, venturing into the iconic Siberia Valley and flying over Mt Pollux for incredible close-up glacier views.

Enjoy striking vistas of crystal blue lakes, and experience an alpine landing upon return for lasting photography of the pristine beauty of the Southern Alps.

Immerse yourself in a journey that captures the essence of New Zealand’s natural grandeur and untamed landscapes.