Where 4WD Adventure Meets Queenstown’s Gold-Rush Past
Back on dry land, trade jet-boat spray for gravel tracks as your 4WD guide takes you into Queenstown’s rugged surrounds. Follow routes once travelled during the region’s gold-rush era, hear stories of the pioneers who ventured into this demanding landscape and stop at elevated viewpoints where mountains, valleys and the Wakatipu Basin stretch out around you. Film locations add another dimension to the journey, revealing why Queenstown’s dramatic scenery has provided such a memorable backdrop for the screen.
The contrast between the two experiences is what makes this combination stand out. One moment you’re racing through a river canyon; the next, you’re travelling through historic backcountry and hearing stories connected to the landscape. A relaxed tea break among the alpine scenery rounds out the experience, bringing together adrenaline, heritage, local storytelling and some of Queenstown’s defining landscapes in one adventure.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Enjoy a scenic jet boat ride along the Dart River
- Take a guided forest walk and a back-country drive through Paradise
- Join a 4WD tour around the Wakatipu Basin with exciting river crossings
- Try your hand at gold panning
WHAT TO BRING
- Wear comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Life jackets are provided for the jet boat, but you may get splashed
- Put on sunscreen before your trip
- Bring your camera for amazing photo opportunities
IMPORTANT INFORMATION: Changes to the Tour Itinerary
Your safety always comes first. Sometimes we may need to change the tour plan because of things we cannot control, such as high water levels or bad road conditions. This could mean we cannot cross rivers or use some roads, including the full length of Skippers Canyon Road. When you book, please be aware that these changes may happen. You can also read our full weather cancellation policy for more details.
AGE INFORMATION
- Adults: 15 years and over: Full adult fare applies.
- Children: 4–14 years: Travel at a discounted child rate.
- Infants: 0–3 years: Travel free of charge when accompanied by an adult.
CANCELLATIONS & REFUNDS
- More than 24 hours before departure: Full refund**.
- Within 24 hours: No refund
Note: **Any refund approved under our terms and conditions will be subject to a 5% admin & processing fee, which will be deducted from the refund amount.
Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.*