Hanmer Springs is famous for its soothing hot pools and scenic mountain views, but it’s also a fantastic spot for off-road adventures. The rugged terrain of the area makes it a perfect playground for quad biking enthusiasts of all skill levels. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned rider, the tours here promise plenty of dirt, water crossings, and spectacular scenery. We particularly like the Hanmer Springs Quad Bikes tour for its family-friendly approach and panoramic views, as well as the Hanmer Springs Rafting and Quad Bike combo for combining two adrenaline-pumping activities into one day. These experiences give you a true taste of New Zealand’s wild side, with guides who know how to keep things safe and fun.
If you’re short on time but want a quick hit of adventure, the Hanmer Springs 2-Hour Quad Bike Safari offers a spirited ride among the trees and mountains. For those who want a more comprehensive experience, the Hanmer Springs Jetboat & Quad Bike Combo combines river thrills with dirt trails, perfect for thrill-seekers who don’t want to choose just one activity. All these tours include essential safety gear and instruction, making them accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Quick Overview of ATV & Quad Bike Tours in Hanmer Springs
This guide features five of the best quad biking adventures available in Hanmer Springs. Some tours focus on guided off-road riding, like Hanmer Springs Quad Bikes, which provides a family-friendly, 2-hour ride through riverbeds and farmland. Others, like Amuri Jet Adventures’ Quad Biking, offer routes that suit all levels on working farm tracks. For a combination of water and land thrills, the Hanmer Springs Rafting and Quad Bike blends white-water rafting with dirt trails. If you want a shorter, more affordable ride, the Hanmer Springs 2-Hour Quad Bike Safari is a superb option. Finally, for a full day of adventure, the Jetboat & Quad Bike Combo combines river cruising and off-road driving over 3 hours.
1. Hanmer Springs Quad Bikes
At number 1 on our list is the Hanmer Springs Quad Bikes tour, which has earned a perfect 5-star rating from 104 reviews. For just over $109 per person, you get about 2 hours of off-road fun. The tour departs from the base of the Waiau Ferry Bridge, where you’ll be outfitted with overalls, boots, and a helmet before a safety briefing. This tour is notable for allowing participants over 16 to drive themselves, which adds to the sense of independence and adventure.
Guides lead you along winding dirt tracks, river crossings, and farmland trails into the wilderness, offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes. The route is suitable for different skill levels, with options for automatic or manual transmission bikes. Whether you want to enjoy a family-friendly ride or challenge yourself on more rugged terrain, this tour adapts well. Reviewers commend the friendly guides and the chance to get wet crossing rivers, which adds excitement. It’s a perfect pairing for those relaxing in Hanmer’s hot pools afterward — a bit of adrenaline before unwinding.
Bottom line: This tour offers great value with a mix of guided safety, stunning scenery, and an accessible experience suitable for beginners and seasoned riders alike.
2. Amuri Jet Adventures – Hanmer Springs Quad Biking Tour
Coming in at number 2, the Amuri Jet Adventures quad biking tour is renowned for its diverse tracks and ability to suit all riders. Priced at around $103 per person for approximately 2 hours, it’s a budget-friendly option packed with variety. This tour is particularly appealing because it takes you into parts of the countryside inaccessible by car, including working farm tracks and mountain trails.
The route offers stunning views of snow-capped mountains and the river canyon, making it a visual treat. Kids can ride as passengers, making this a family-friendly choice. All riders receive full instruction and safety gear, ensuring confidence, especially for first-timers. The tours are flexible enough for first-time riders to enjoy the ride without feeling overwhelmed, yet interesting enough for more experienced bikers to find challenge.
Reviewers highlight the friendly guides and the opportunity to learn about the landscape while riding. The terrain varies from farm tracks to more technical sections, making it a well-rounded adventure.
Bottom line: This tour is excellent for outdoor lovers seeking a flexible, scenic quad biking experience that caters to all abilities and ages.
3. Hanmer Springs Rafting and Quad Bike combo
Positioned third, the Hanmer Springs Rafting and Quad Bike combo is a true adrenaline package. Combining white-water rafting on the Waiau Gorge with guided quad biking, this 4-hour tour costs about $198 per person. The experience starts with river tubing or rafting, where you navigate grade II rapids amid stunning canyon scenery. After that, switch gears to explore rugged trails over farmland and forest.
What makes this combo unique is the diversity of activities and the opportunity to enjoy two different types of outdoor thrill in one day. The safety equipment is provided for both activities, and guides are experienced both on water and land. Reviewers rave about the variety and excitement, calling it “a perfect blend of water and dirt.” It’s ideal for active travelers craving a full day of adventure, with a bit of everything.
Bottom line: This combo is a fun way to get two major adrenaline experiences at a good price, with a focus on scenery and excitement.
4. Hanmer Springs 2-Hour Quad Bike Safari
At number 4, the Hanmer Springs 2-Hour Quad Bike Safari offers a shorter, more accessible experience. Priced at just $70, it’s perfect for those who want a quick taste of off-road riding. The tour takes you among the trees and mountains, with a route designed to showcase the region’s breathtaking scenery without demanding a full day’s commitment.
Guides provide instruction before setting out on challenging dirt trails. Riders can enjoy a return ride with friends or family, and the experience is suitable for beginners and intermediate riders. While reviews mention a slightly lower rating (4.4/5), many appreciate the excellent value and the chance to explore Hanmer’s mountain landscape in a short time.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal if you want a quick, fun experience that still delivers scenic views and off-road excitement without a big price tag.
5. Hanmer Springs Jetboat & Quad Bike Combo
Finally, the Hanmer Springs Jetboat & Quad Bike Combo offers a 3-hour adventure combining river jetboating and off-road quad biking. For $167, you get over 30 kilometers of jetboating through the Waiau River Gorge followed by a quad biking challenge with river crossings and muddy tracks. It’s the most comprehensive package on our list, perfect for those wanting diverse thrills.
The scenic river gorge provides striking water-based views, while the quad biking section challenges your ability to handle varied terrain. The combo suits adventure seekers who aren’t afraid of getting dusty and wet. Reviewers mention the fantastic scenery and the exhilaration of controlling your own quad bike.
Bottom line: This tour is best suited for active, thrill-seeking travelers who want a full day of diverse outdoor experiences with excellent scenery.
How to Choose the Right ATV or Quad Bike Tour in Hanmer Springs
When selecting your tour, consider your budget, how much time you have, and what kind of experience excites you most. For a family-friendly ride with spectacular views, the Hanmer Springs Quad Bikes is hard to beat. If you want more variety or are traveling with kids, look at the Amuri Jet Adventures. For those seeking a full adrenaline punch, the Rafting and Quad Bike combo or the Jetboat & Quad Bike Combo are excellent choices.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak summer months, to secure your preferred time slot. Think about your fitness level—some tours involve crossing rivers or navigating challenging terrain, so choose accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Hanmer Springs offers a wide variety of ATV and quad biking experiences to suit different interests, budgets, and skill levels. For a short but exciting ride, the Hanmer Springs 2-Hour Quad Bike Safari is a great pick. If you’re after a full-day thrill, consider the Jetboat & Quad Bike Combo. And for a balanced adventure combining sightseeing and activity, the Hanmer Springs Quad Bikes delivers excellent value.
No matter your choice, Hanmer Springs guarantees plenty of dirt, water, and mountain air — so gear up early and enjoy your ride through New Zealand’s rugged wilderness.