Jet Boat & Kepler Track Hike

South Island

Fiordland Trips And Tramps

from

NZ$395

per adult

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Guided walkers standing beside a towering native beech tree in Fiordland’s forest.

Experiences

Hiking & Walking

Jet Boat Tours

Family-friendly Tours

Day Tours

Small Group Tours

South Island

Start: Te Anau

Duration: 1 day

Travel Time: 6 hours

Difficulty: 2

Details

Thrilling Jet Boat Ride on the Waiau River

Start your day with a thrilling ride as the Fiordland Jet team takes you racing along the Waiau River, a majestic waterway rich with trout and bordered by pristine wilderness. The journey leads to Lake Manapouri and Shallow Bay, where the crystal-clear waters meet white sandy shores. This is where the excitement of jet boating meets the calm of a scenic lakeside setting.

From here, the pace slows as you begin your guided walk along the Kepler Track, one of New Zealand’s most accessible and beautiful trails. Surrounded by towering red beech forest and mountain scenery, the track’s gentle gradient makes it ideal for all abilities. Your guide shares fascinating insights into the region’s ecology and local conservation efforts, adding depth to the experience.

Nature guide holding a native plant during a Kepler Track forest walk.

Native kererū bird perched in kōwhai tree, feeding among yellow flowers.

Family walking through sun-dappled native forest along the Kepler Track.

Jet boat cruising under a suspension bridge surrounded by native forest on the Waiau River.

Yellow jet boat speeding through the Waiau River near Lake Manapouri, creating a splash.

Jet boat travelling through remote Waiau River scenery in Fiordland National Park.

Jet boat gliding across the vast waters of Lake Manapouri with Fiordland mountains in the distance.

Hikers crossing the swing bridge over the Waiau River on the Kepler Track, Southland, New Zealand

Two friends hiking through lush beech forest on the Kepler Track, Southland, New Zealand

Hiking the Kepler Track with Expert Local Guides

The walk continues through lush forest before reaching Rainbow Reach, where the Waiau River is crossed via a scenic swing bridge. This 6 km section takes around 2.5 to 3 hours and offers a taste of the Kepler Track’s natural beauty. It’s a perfect length for families or travellers seeking a relaxed yet rewarding outdoor experience.

For those keen on stretching their legs further, the hike can extend another 10 km to the Control Gates, bringing the total to 16 km. This longer option provides more time to soak up Fiordland’s landscapes and truly connect with nature. Whichever path you choose, the combination of jet boating and hiking promises a day of variety and unforgettable memories.

Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
Distance: 6 km
Climb: 50m

Option: Take a longer hike extending to the Kepler Track Control Gates, adding 10 km to your adventure for a total of 16 km.

HIGHLIGHTS

Speed down the Waiau River on a thrilling jet boat ride, surrounded by ancient beech forests and landscapes straight out of Middle Earth.
Glide onto the tranquil waters of Lake Manapouri, taking in the pristine beauty of its surroundings.
Embark on a 2.5-hour guided hike along the famous Kepler Track, exploring sandy beaches, native forests, and a traditional 'kiwi' tramping hut.
Cross a picturesque swing bridge and marvel at expansive wetlands on a mostly flat and well-maintained trail.

INCLUSIONS

Professional guide for both jet boating and hiking.
All transport from your Te Anau accommodation, including jet boat ride.
Guided nature walk on the Kepler Track.
Hot drink and light snack during the guided walk.
Option to pre-order a picnic lunch (at additional charge).

MEALS

A hot drink and light snack provided on the hike.
Option to pre-order a picnic lunch, or bring your own lunch and hiking snacks.

WHAT TO BRING

Comfortable walking shoes and waterproof jacket.
Warm clothing, including a hat and gloves.
Sunscreen, camera, and bottle of water.
Hiking snacks and lunch (if not pre-ordered).

WHAT WE PROVIDE

A knowledgeable guide, all necessary transport, jet boat experience, and a fully guided Kepler Track walk.

HIKE DIFFICULTY

Easy and suitable for all ages.
Choose between a 6 km hike to Rainbow Reach or extend your journey to 16 km to the control gates.
The track is well-maintained, mostly flat, and suitable for a wide range of fitness levels.

AGE INFORMATION

Adults: 16 years +
Child: 5-15 years

CANCELLATION & REFUND

7 days or more before travel: Full refund**
6 days or less: Non Refundable

Note: **Refunds exclude credit card or payment fees if applicable, which are non-refundable.

Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.

Itinerary

Kick off your adventure with a thrilling jet boat ride on the mighty Waiau River, leading you to the stunning Lake Manapouri. This journey isn't just about the adrenaline rush; it's a scenic tour through landscapes so breathtaking, they were featured in the opening scene of "The Lord of the Rings." Imagine zipping through ancient beech tree forests that evoke the essence of Middle Earth, before the pace slows as you cruise onto the tranquil waters of Lake Manapouri. This experience is a perfect blend of excitement and serenity, making it a memorable start to your day in the Fiordland National Park.

After the exhilarating jet boat experience, it's time to lace up your walking shoes and hit the Kepler Track. This 2.5-hour, 6 km guided nature walk is an easy section of one of New Zealand's Great Walks, leading from Lake Manapouri to Rainbow Reach. Your guide, brimming with knowledge and enthusiasm, will lead you through this spectacular landscape. The trail is wide, well-maintained, and mostly flat, making it accessible to all. Along the way, you'll traverse sandy beaches, peek inside a traditional 'kiwi' tramping hut, marvel at expansive wetlands, wander through native forests, and cross a captivating swing bridge. This hike offers an intimate glimpse into the heart of New Zealand's natural beauty.

For those with a thirst for more adventure and keen to explore further, there's an option to extend your hike to the Kepler Track Control Gates. This addition adds another 10 km to your journey, culminating in a 16 km trek. It's an opportunity to delve deeper into the natural wonders of the Fiordland, immersing yourself in the tranquility and grandeur of the landscapes that make this region famous.

This package offers an unforgettable day of exploration and adventure in the Fiordland National Park. Whether you're speeding down the Waiau River, soaking in the sights of Lake Manapouri, or trekking along the Kepler Track, you're guaranteed a day filled with fun, suitable for all ages and abilities. Experience the grand landscapes of Fiordland by water and land, and take home memories that will last a lifetime.