Hump Ridge Jet, Otautau Jet Boat Tours, Southland
LOCATION
Hump Ridge Jet services the South Coast of Fiordland National Park including Lake Hauroko and the Wairaurahiri River. Lake Hauroko is the deepest lake in New Zealand and is drained by the Wairaurahiri River, which falls 200meters to sea level and is 27 kilometres of grade 3 white water rapids.
The river is commonly described as New Zealands longest waterfall.
THE ADVENTURE
Aboard the Jet you will speed over Lake Hauroko and then dive into the intake of the Wairaurahiri River - one of New Zealands most remote and untouched rivers. Unique and secluded, the river flows through Virgin Beech forest that is over 1 million years old.
A spectacular jet boat experience that is an ultimate combination of thrilling jetboating and natural surrounding.
Along the way you will speed past bush clad banks and through rock strewn rapids. This is a journey deep into the Southern Wilderness of Fiordland. You also have the option of a short walk over the Wairaurahiri Swingbridge into the ancient temperate rainforest.
When the South Coast is found at the end of the Wairaurahiri River, consider the option of trekking inland to view the mighty Percy Burn Viaduct or just sit back and take in the abundance of wildlife that is found on New Zealands South Coast.
BACKGROUND
Hump Ridge Jet itself is based in Otautau - a small Southland town - and is only a short distance from Lake Hauroko.
Owner and operator Paul Roff has over 20 years experience jet boating and knows the region very well. He has a vast knowledge of the jetboating industry, local history and bushcraft.
A member of the NZJBA and NZCJBA he started the business back in 1995 providing a means of transport for hunters and trampers.
Since then, the business has grown into one of the best jetboating experiences in New Zealand.
Paul still services the local market however, and can provide special charters for photographers, hunters and trampers.
He has progressed from his first jet boat to a new custom built boat - specially designed for the grade 3 river conditions. It offers superb handling, power and safety features.
Hump Ridge Jet, Otautau Jet Boat Tours, Southland Enquiry Form
Address:
17 Main Street
Otautau
Southland
Phone: +64 3 225 8174
Freephone: 0800 270 556
Fax: +64 3 225 8174
Web: Visit website
RATES: Quoted in NZ$, Subject to change
One Day Adventure - Option 1:
TRIP SUMMARY - Jet boat across Lake Hauroko to challenge the most exhilarating jet boat journey in New Zealand, the Wairaurahiri river, 27 kilometres of grade 3, rock strewn whitewater rapids.
When the Wild South Coast is reached, you can trek in to see the mighty Percyburn viaduct or just relax and enjoy the abundance of wildlife.A short walk over the Wairaurahiri swingbridge into Waitutu virgin forest is a must. The return journey is just as exciting. Jet boating up the river gives you time to take in the unique scenery and the full force of grade 3 rapids.
Transport to and from Otautau via Tuatapere can be provided as part of the overall cost.
PRICING: Minimum of four people needed for trip to go.
Boat can carry up to 11 people per trip, but can cater for up to 22 people per day. $190 per person OR $210 per adult including BBQ
Children under 12 years half price
TRIP SUMMARY - Your day starts with a helicopter ride onto the Humpridge range to Okaka hut. There you will find a short scenic walk through preston alpine gardens, small tarns, limestone rock formations and some of the amazing views to be seen in south Fiordland, from there you make a decent on the Humpridge track to the Southcoast track, a short walk to the Percyburn viaduct, then back to the Wairaurahiri hut where you will be meet by 'Paul' and jetboated up the Wairaurahiri river, out onto Lake Hauroko and back to the ramp. Transport to Tuatapere or Humpridge carpark can be provided.
Time in jetboat 1 -2 hrs
Time in helicopter 10 - 15 mins (approx;)
Tramping time 6 - 8 hrs (approx;)
PRICING: P.O.A.