Experience the thrill of Bay of Plenty jet boat tours with Motu River Jet, offering unforgettable adventures on two of New Zealand’s most scenic and remote rivers – the Motu River and the Rangitāiki River.
Located in the Eastern Bay of Plenty, Motu River Jet combines adventure, breathtaking scenery and fascinating local history to create a truly unique Kiwi experience. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline-filled ride, a peaceful journey through untouched native bush, or an exclusive private tour, Motu River Jet delivers an unforgettable day on the water.
Conveniently located near Ōpōtiki, Whakatāne and Rotorua, Motu River Jet is perfectly positioned for visitors exploring the Bay of Plenty region.
Bay of Plenty Jet Boat Tours on the Motu River
Departing from the Motu River Bridge on State Highway 35, the Motu River Jet Boat Tour takes guests deep into one of New Zealand’s most protected and untouched wilderness areas.
The Motu River was the first river in New Zealand to receive a National Water Conservation Order, preserving its outstanding natural character and ecological significance.
As you travel through this spectacular landscape, you’ll discover:
- Ancient Māori history
- Rare native flora and fauna
- Remote wilderness scenery
- Crystal-clear waterways
- Exciting wilderness jet boating
Along the way, knowledgeable local guides provide informative commentary on the river’s history, ecology and cultural significance.
Bay of Plenty Jet Boat Tours on the Rangitāiki River
Launching from Matahina Dam near Edgecumbe, the Rangitāiki River Jet Boat Tour offers another incredible wilderness experience through remote river valleys and native landscapes.
Guests enjoy:
- Stunning river scenery
- Native bush and birdlife
- Historical and ecological commentary
- Exciting jet boating adventure
- Access to remote areas rarely visited by travellers
This tour is an excellent option for visitors staying in Whakatāne, Edgecumbe, Kawerau or Rotorua.
Exclusive Private Jet Boat Tours
Looking for a more personalised experience?
Motu River Jet offers private jet boat tours for couples, families, small groups and special occasions.
Private tours provide exclusive use of the boat and allow guests to experience the beauty of the Motu or Rangitāiki Rivers at their own pace.
Minimum two passengers apply.
Hunting Tours
For those seeking a true wilderness adventure, Motu River Jet also offers access to hunting trips in remote backcountry areas.
Popular options include:
- Deer hunting (best September to December)
- Wild pig hunting (best May to August)
Firearms licences are required for all hunting activities.
Please contact Motu River Jet directly for hunting tour information and pricing.
Group Jet Boat Tours
Motu River Jet specialises in small group jet boat tours for families, schools, sports teams, social clubs, corporate groups and special interest groups seeking a unique Bay of Plenty wilderness adventure.
With capacity for up to 15 passengers across two boats, Motu River Jet offers a personalised and enjoyable experience that larger tour operators simply can’t match.
Whether you’re planning a family outing, small group adventure, educational excursion or corporate experience, Motu River Jet can provide an unforgettable wilderness journey on either the Motu River or Rangitāiki River. Tours operate with a maximum capacity of 9 passengers on the larger boat or 6 passengers on the smaller boat.
Group tours can be customised to suit your interests and may be combined with optional activities such as historic walks, rafting, kayaking and hunting experiences.
Please contact Motu River Jet directly to discuss group sizes, availability and pricing.
Tour Capacity
Motu River Jet operates two purpose-built jet boats to cater for different group sizes.
- Larger jet boat – up to 9 passengers
- Smaller jet boat – up to 6 passengers
Both boats provide the same exciting wilderness jet boating experience, with vessel selection based on passenger numbers and tour requirements.
Additional Activities Available
Enhance your Bay of Plenty adventure with a range of optional experiences available on request:
- Historic Motu River walks
- Rafting adventures
- Kayaking experiences
- Guided hunting trips
- Group tours
Please contact Motu River Jet for further details and availability.
Why Choose Motu River Jet?
- Experienced local operators
- Safe and professional jet boating
- Small group experiences
- Spectacular wilderness scenery
- Māori and local history commentary
- Family-friendly adventures
- Private tour options
- Two unique river experiences
Whether you choose the Motu River or Rangitāiki River, you’ll experience some of New Zealand’s most remote and breathtaking landscapes from the comfort of a purpose-built jet boat.
Plan Your Bay of Plenty Adventure
Motu River Jet welcomes visitors from throughout New Zealand and around the world looking to experience the natural beauty of the Bay of Plenty.
If you’re planning a longer stay, browse our Bay of Plenty Travel Guide for local attractions, activities and accommodation options throughout Whakatāne, Ōpōtiki, Rotorua and the wider region.
Fun, safe and exhilarating, every tour combines adventure, scenery and local knowledge to create a memorable experience you’ll never forget.
Book direct with Motu River Jet today and discover the wild side of the Bay of Plenty.
FAQs
How many passengers can the boats carry?
The larger boat carries up to 9 passengers and the smaller boat carries up to 6 passengers.
Are corporate and team-building groups welcome?
Absolutely. Our jet boat tours provide a unique outdoor experience for corporate groups, staff outings and team-building events.
Can tours be combined with other activities?
Yes. Optional activities such as historic Motu River walks, rafting, kayaking and hunting trips may be available on request.
How long do the jet boat tours take?
Tour durations vary depending on the river and tour selected. Please contact Motu River Jet for current tour details and timings.
What wildlife might I see during the tour?
Depending on the season and location, guests may see native birdlife, freshwater wildlife and stunning native bush environments throughout the river valleys.
Where do the tours depart from?
The Motu River Tour departs from the Motu River Bridge on State Highway 35, while the Rangitāiki River Tour departs from Matahina Dam near Edgecumbe and Te Mahoe.
How close are the tours to Whakatāne and Ōpōtiki?
The Motu River departure point is approximately 30 minutes from Ōpōtiki, while the Rangitāiki River departure point is around 30 minutes from Whakatāne.
Do you provide safety equipment?
Yes. Safety equipment is provided and all tours are operated by experienced professional jet boat drivers.
Can children join the tours?
Yes. Families are welcome. Please contact Motu River Jet if you have specific questions regarding age requirements.
Do the tours operate year-round?
Tours generally operate throughout the year, subject to weather and river conditions. Advance bookings are recommended, particularly from October to April.
