Approx. 40 minutes of scenic helicopter flying30-minute Waimakariri River jet boat safariReturn helicopter transferProfessional pilot and jet boat driverLifejacket provided

Important Information

Not recommended for expectant mothersPlease wear warm clothingOperates subject to weather and river conditionsHelicopter type at operator’s discretion

Overview Pricing

Canterbury Helijet Adventure Safari – Waimakariri River

South Island

Garden City Helicopters

from

AU$727

per person

Helicopter flying above jet boat on Waimakariri River

Experiences

Helicopter Scenic Flights

Jet Boat Tours

Family-friendly Tours

Half-Day Tours

South Island

Start: Christchurch Airport

Location: Christchurch

Duration: 1.5 hours

Minimum Age: 5

Experience Canterbury's Helijet Adventure Safari, combining a scenic helicopter flight from Christchurch Airport with a thrilling jet boat ride on the Waimakariri River. This 1.5-hour adventure includes approximately 40 minutes of return helicopter flying, a 30-minute jet boat safari, professional guides and lifejackets. Departures are subject to booking availability, weather and river conditions. Suitable for adventurers aged five and over, with a minimum of two adults required.

Scenic helicopter flight over Christchurch

Take off from Christchurch Airport and enjoy spectacular aerial views as you fly towards the Waimakariri River. Admire the sprawling Canterbury Plains, braided river channels and surrounding mountain scenery from above. Your helicopter journey offers a unique perspective on the region's diverse landscapes, from Christchurch's urban surroundings to the rugged beauty of the Canterbury countryside. Along the way, enjoy incredible photo opportunities before descending towards the river for the next part of your adventure.

Touching down on the banks of the Waimakariri River, anticipation builds as you prepare for the next thrilling stage. The Alpine Jet Thrills team is ready to welcome you with expert guidance and world-class vessels. Their passion for adventure ensures you’re in safe hands before the excitement takes off.

Jet boating on the Waimakariri River

Once the engines roar to life, you’ll feel the surge of adrenaline as the jet boat powers through narrow channels and around sharp bends. The sheer speed and agility of the boat create unforgettable thrills, matched only by the breathtaking river scenery. Every twist in the river offers a fresh rush of excitement.

For a different kind of thrill, you can opt for the airboat, gliding over shallows and gravel beds with ease. This unique option gives you a fresh perspective on the river’s changing landscapes. The return helicopter flight then allows you to relax, taking in the vast Canterbury Plains before landing back in Christchurch.

Scenic aerial view of Christchurch city and coastline from helicopter

View from helicopter cockpit flying over Christchurch suburbs

Alpine Jet Thrills boat racing on the lower Waimakariri River

Braided channels of the Waimakariri River viewed from helicopter

Stunning view of Waimakariri Gorge with turquoise water and mountains

Red airboat ride on the Waimakariri River with passengers

Tourists taking photos of jet boat ride on the Waimakariri River

Yellow jet boat splashing water during fast turn on river

Alpine Jet boat approaching with passengers on board

Approx. 40 minutes of scenic helicopter flying
30-minute Waimakariri River jet boat safari
Return helicopter transfer
Professional pilot and jet boat driver
Lifejacket provided

Not recommended for expectant mothers
Please wear warm clothing
Operates subject to weather and river conditions
Helicopter type at operator’s discretion

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.