You’ve seen pretty.
You’re done with pretty.
And while New Zealand delivers plenty of postcard-worthy scenery, pretty isn’t what you’ll ultimately remember about Skippers Canyon. You want adventure. The kind that gets your heart racing and leaves you grinning for days afterwards.
Fortunately, Skippers Canyon delivers.
What Are the Best Skippers Canyon Queenstown Activities?
The best Skippers Canyon Queenstown activities include the Skippers Canyon Jet, a 4WD Skippers Canyon tour and nearby bungy jumping at the Kawarau Gorge. Together, they showcase the region’s dramatic scenery, gold-rush history and reputation as one of New Zealand’s great adventure destinations.
Here are three unforgettable ways to experience it.
By Water: The Skippers Canyon Jet
Board the Skippers Canyon Jet and prepare yourself for a series of hair-raising manoeuvres, 360-degree spins and near-misses that will have you questioning your life choices — briefly.
Experienced drivers navigate the narrowest sections of the Shotover River at speeds exceeding 80km/h, threading through towering canyon walls with extraordinary precision.
The journey into the canyon is part of the attraction.
Guests travel the famous Skippers Road by 4WD before reaching the river, passing sheer drops, historic landmarks and spectacular viewpoints carved into the schist rock face.
Bonus: Lord of the Rings filming locations are highlighted during commentary stops along the way.
Good to know: Skippers Canyon Jet is the only operator permitted to run jet boat trips within this section of the canyon.
By Air: AJ Hackett Kawarau Bridge Bungy
A short drive from Skippers Canyon lies another legendary adventure.
Located in the Kawarau Gorge, the Kawarau Bridge Bungy is the world’s first commercial bungy jump site. Since 1988, thrill-seekers have been stepping off the historic bridge and plunging towards the turquoise waters below.
It may not be located within Skippers Canyon itself, but it’s one of Queenstown’s most iconic adrenaline experiences and a natural addition to any adventure-filled itinerary.
Inside tip: Even during warmer months, the gorge can feel surprisingly cool. Bring a jacket and dress for the conditions.
By Road: 4WD Skippers Canyon Tour
Want to focus on the road, scenery and history rather than the jet boat?
A dedicated 4WD Skippers Canyon tour is the perfect option.
Unlike the Skippers Canyon Jet experience, these tours spend more time exploring the canyon’s gold-rush heritage, dramatic landscapes and famous filming locations. The drive itself is an adventure, with narrow roads, steep drop-offs and unforgettable views around every corner.
Stop at Plane Table for panoramic views across the Wakatipu Basin before continuing to the historic settlement of Skippers. Along the way, you’ll hear stories of the miners, settlers and adventurers who once called this remote valley home.
Feeling lucky? Try your hand at gold panning and see if there’s still treasure hidden beneath the river gravels.
Inside tip: Lighthouse Rock offers one of the best viewpoints in the canyon. You’ll want your camera ready.
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Ready to experience one of Queenstown’s most thrilling destinations?
Speak to the team at New Zealand Holidays and start planning your Skippers Canyon adventure today.
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