Wnaka: Heli Jet Combo – Helicopter & Jet Boat Adventure

Imagine soaring over rugged mountains and pristine rivers, then speeding through native forests in a jet boat — all in one remarkable hour. For just $407 per person, this Wnaka Heli-Jet Combo offers a swift but comprehensive taste of New Zealand’s wild heart. With a reliable 5-star rating from Backcountry Helicopters, this tour packs in breathtaking views, adrenaline, and a real sense of adventure — perfect for those craving authentic wilderness experiences.

What we love about this tour is how it balances quiet moments of awe with exhilarating action. The helicopter flight offers a chance to see the untouched beauty of Mount Aspiring National Park and Siberia Valley, while the jet boat ride gets your heart pumping as you speed through dense beech forests and river valleys. Plus, the small group size (limited to six) makes the experience feel personal and unhurried.

One possible consideration is that the tour’s success heavily depends on weather conditions. Because the region’s notorious for sudden weather changes, your planned flight might need to be rescheduled — so flexibility is key. But if you’re willing to adapt, this adventure is well worth the effort.

This tour suits anyone eager to combine spectacular scenery with a dose of adrenaline. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or someone wanting a unique perspective on New Zealand’s wilderness, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Stunning views of Mount Aspiring National Park and Siberia Valley from the helicopter.
• Adrenaline rush with a high-speed jet boat ride through native beech forests.
• Small group setting offers a more personal and immersive experience.
• The tour is weather-dependent but offers incredible photo opportunities.
• Combines scenic tranquility with exciting activity, ideal for adventure enthusiasts.
• Duration of just one hour makes it a compact yet memorable outing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Wilderness from the Sky and Water

The Wnaka Heli-Jet Combo is a carefully curated experience that manages to cram a lot into just 60 minutes. It begins with a 15-minute helicopter flight, which might sound brief but is packed with visual riches. From the sky, you’ll glide past the braided Wilkin and Makarora rivers, with the snow-capped peaks of Mount Aspiring looming in the distance. This aerial perspective allows you to truly grasp the scale and untouched beauty of this part of New Zealand.

During the flight, the views of Lake Crucible and the Siberia Valley are particularly captivating. Our guide, James, mentioned how special it was to see the lush greenery contrasted with the icy summits, and it’s easy to see why many travelers describe this as a highlight. The helicopter’s glass floor adds a fun element, giving you unobstructed views of the rugged landscape below.

Once you land at Kerin Forks, the adventure continues with a 30-minute jet boat ride. Wilkin River Jets operates with a reputation for speed and safety, and their boats are built to carve through the water with agility. As you race through the native beech forests and deep river valleys, you’ll feel the thrill of the wind and spray, surrounded by scenery that feels both remote and majestic.

The Scenic Helicopter Flight

The helicopter ride might be the most awe-inspiring part of this experience. You’ll fly into Mount Aspiring National Park, known locally as “The Matterhorn of the South,” and into the Siberia Valley, which is often described as pristine and untouched. The tour’s official description highlights the scenic flight into Siberia Valley — a rare opportunity to see one of New Zealand’s less-accessible regions.

In reviews, many mention how the views of braided rivers and mountain peaks are unforgettable. Travelers often comment on how “the landscape looked like a painting,” with some noting that the flight made them feel like they were in a different world altogether.

The Jet Boat Adventure

After the aerial portion, the boat ride is a lively counterpoint. Wilkin River Jets’ 30-minute journey promises speed and excitement through native beech forests and river valleys. Many quotes reflect how “the boat really picks up speed,” and some mention the sensation of being surrounded by towering mountains as you race down the river.

The boat ride offers more than just adrenaline. It’s a chance to appreciate the raw power of nature, with towering cliffs, icy mountain backdrop, and lush forests creating a dramatic setting. Several travelers appreciate the balance of serenity from the flight and the high-energy boat ride, making this a well-rounded adventure.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour is structured for efficiency, lasting exactly one hour — usually available in the morning or afternoon — making it easy to fit into a larger itinerary. The meeting point is at the Backcountry Helicopters and Wilkin River Jets Office, conveniently located in Wanaka.

Since the activity involves moderate physical activity—mainly walking at the start and during the jet boat boarding—you should wear comfortable shoes and warm clothing, especially considering the often cool mountain air. Bringing water and snacks is advised, although the tour doesn’t include meals.

It’s important to note that the flight may be canceled or postponed due to weather, which is common in mountain regions. The provider states they will do their best to accommodate your preferred time but may need to reschedule within 24 hours, so flexibility is recommended.

The experience is capped at six participants, which keeps groups small and ensures more personalized attention and a quieter, less rushed ambiance.

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Comparing the Experience with Other Wanaka Adventures

This tour offers a unique blend of scenic flight and adrenaline activity, setting it apart from other options such as water taxis, skydiving, or paragliding. While those experiences might focus on one thrill or view, this combo delivers both, giving you a panoramic perspective and an energetic feel of the wilderness.

Looking at similar activities, such as the Milford Sound Glacier Flight or the Lake Wanaka Happy Hour Cruise, it’s clear that this tour provides a different dimension: a quick, intense immersion into the mountain and river landscape. For travelers who want a “bit of everything” in a short time, this is a perfect choice.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

High praise from previous travelers highlights the stunning views as a main draw. Many describe the scenery as “spectacular,” with some noting how the combination of aerial and water-based adventure creates a memorable experience that truly captures the essence of New Zealand’s wilderness.

For those who value small group sizes and personalized attention, the limited number of participants adds to the overall quality. The professional guides and operators further enhance the experience, ensuring safety and a smooth ride.

However, due to weather dependency, it’s wise to keep flexible plans, especially during the unpredictable mountain climate. The price, while not the cheapest, reflects the value of the combined scenic and adrenaline elements and the exclusive nature of the small group setting.

In essence, this tour is ideal for adventure lovers and photo enthusiasts alike, offering vivid landscapes, high-speed fun, and a chance to see some of New Zealand’s most rugged country in a very manageable time frame.

The Wnaka Heli-Jet Combo is a well-balanced experience that combines the serenity of a scenic helicopter flight with the excitement of a jet boat ride. It’s a perfect choice for travelers looking for a short but impactful glimpse of New Zealand’s majestic wilderness, especially if you’re eager to capture stunning photos and enjoy some adrenaline. The small group size, expert guides, and breathtaking views make this a memorable, high-value adventure.

While weather can affect scheduling, the promise of flying over iconic mountains and racing through river valleys makes it worth planning around. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply want a different perspective on New Zealand’s natural beauty, this tour offers a fantastic way to experience the South Island’s wild side.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience is about one hour, including both the helicopter and jet boat rides.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a 15-minute helicopter ride and a 30-minute jet boat ride. Meals and drinks are not included.

Is this activity suitable for anyone?
It’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate physical activity and prepared for possible weather changes. Warm clothing and comfortable shoes are recommended.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour may be canceled or postponed due to weather, which is common in mountain regions. The provider will do their best to reschedule within 24 hours.

What is the group size?
Limited to 6 participants to ensure a more personal experience.

Where do we meet?
At the Backcountry Helicopters and Wilkin River Jets Office in Wanaka.

Whether you’re chasing adrenaline, epic scenery, or both, the Wnaka Heli Jet Combo offers a compact but high-impact adventure into New Zealand’s wildest landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: