Need some adventure? Come and Jet Boat along the mighty Wairaurahiri River. Combined with some adventurous walking through the spectacular wilderness, this is one adventure you don't want to miss.
The Experience
Day 1: starts from Bluecliff's Beach. This is the point that you will start your unguided walking tour of the area. From there you travel the wild South Coast to Port Craig, taking in the abundance of wildlife and scenery. There are two routes, the beach at low tide (5-6 hours) or the track (6-7 hours). Both are well signposted and maintained by the Department of Conservation. Accommodation in an old schoolhouse is modest but comfortable (20 bunk-beds).
On day two, you will depart from Port Craig and the track follows an old log tramway which is easy going. The Waitutu track follows the wild south coast sweeping through bush and beach. After two hours you arrive at the magnificent Percy Burn viaduct, providing an absolutely breathtaking view.
The track continues to the Wairaurahiri River. This day trip is easy going and takes 4-5 hours to where the jet boat leaves for the trip of a lifetime. One and a half hours of solid thrills, grade three white water rapids and rocks. The scenery is magnificent. You will travel the full length of the river - 27 kilometres to Lake Hauroko. At the jetty your transport will be waiting to take you back to Tuatapere or to your vehicle at Bluecliff's Beach.
The activity includes a jet boat ride on Lake Hauroko and the Wairaurahiri River to Waitutu Lodge. You will jet boat on one of the steepest river systems in New Zealand. The helicopter flight along Hump Ridge is spectacular for viewing the natural scenery in this area of NZ. We make a brief photo stop at the Percyburn viaduct for some amazing pictures. Your flight will then continue to Waitutu Lodge, situated near the outlet of the Wairaurahiri river. This is where your group meets up for a bush style BBQ, which includes local game. Hot drinks are available and all other beverages are BYO (optional). If you decide to go in by helicopter first, then you will return by jet boat and vice versa. The duration of your helicopter flight will be approximately 20 minutes and the duration of your jet boat ride approximately 60 minutes.
