Booking choice: The Shotover Jet canyon ride, from $118 per person. Check dates Compare the options below
There is no minimum age on the Shotover Jet: the rule is height. Children who reach 1 metre can ride, which means many four- and five-year-olds qualify, and teens usually rate it the highlight of the trip.
Families in the reviews range from young children to grandparents, and the common thread is simple: it is loud, fast and fun, and over quickly.
The quick answer
Children can ride from 1 metre tall, with no minimum age, though the operator can raise the limit to 1.2 metres when the river is high. Under-5s ride free with a paying adult, children 5 to 15 pay NZ$109 direct, and a family pass for two adults and two children is NZ$507. Every child under 16 rides with an adult.
Is the Shotover Jet suitable for kids?
Yes, for children who meet the height rule and like a bit of speed: families rate it highly.
One group of ten aged 11 to 50 said everyone thoroughly enjoyed it; another rider called it bumpy and wet but fun, especially for the kids. The ride is noisy and fast, so think about how your child handles loud, sudden movement.
Planning a family ride? Check times for the Shotover Jet.
Check dates for the Shotover Jet canyon rideWhat is the minimum age and height?
There is no minimum age; every rider must be at least 1 metre tall, and the operator can raise that to 1.2 metres in higher river conditions.
Measure before you go, and have a plan B if your child is close to 1.2 metres in spring, when the river is more often high. There is no weight limit, but everyone must fit a life jacket.
How much do children pay?
Children 5 to 15 pay NZ$109 direct, under-5s ride free with a paying adult, and adults are 16 and over.
A family pass for two adults and two children is NZ$507, bought direct. On Viator the adult price is from $118, with a child rate at checkout. See Shotover Jet prices for the full breakdown.
Is it too scary for children?
For most children over 1 metre, no: it is thrilling, but you hold a rail the whole time and the drivers signal every spin.
Nervous riders often say they relaxed after the first few minutes and ended with their arms in the air. If your child hates loud noise or sudden drops, try a gentler lake ride first.
Younger or more nervous children? KJet takes riders from age 2 on open lake and river water.
Explore the KJet lake and river rideWhere should children sit?
Centre seats, next to an adult: they get the least spray and feel the most secure.
The outside seats get the most spray and the closest views of the rocks, which older kids often want.
What should kids wear?
A windproof jacket, sunglasses and, in winter, a hat and gloves.
The wind at speed is the thing children notice most. See what to wear on the Shotover Jet for a season-by-season list.
What if your child is too small?
Book KJet, which takes children from age 2, or the 30-minute lake jet boat from the waterfront.
The Dart River jet boat takes children from age 3 and 1 metre, with more scenery and less intensity.
Kids tall enough? Book with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
Check dates for the Shotover Jet canyon rideFrequently asked questions
Can a 4-year-old ride the Shotover Jet?
Yes, if they are at least 1 metre tall (1.2 metres when the river is high), and they ride free with a paying adult.
Do children need to ride with an adult?
Yes. Every child under 16 must be accompanied by an adult on the boat.
Is there a weight limit for kids?
No weight limit, but every rider must fit one of the operator's life jackets.
Ready to book
Choose your ride
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before on every option. Prices are from-prices in USD and move with the season.
Shotover Jet: Canyon Jet Boat Ride
- 25-minute jet boat ride through the Shotover River canyons
- Life jacket, safety briefing and a neck warmer on cold days
- Optional return shuttle from The Station Building in central Queenstown
KJet: Lake Wakatipu & Kawarau River
- 60-minute, 45 km jet boat ride with 360 degree spins
- Lake Wakatipu, the Kawarau River and the lower Shotover River
- Departs the Main Town Pier in central Queenstown
Dart River Jet Boat Wilderness Safari
- Jet boat ride on the Dart River inside Mt Aspiring National Park
- Guide commentary on Maori history, wildlife and film locations
- Optional return coach from The Station Building, Queenstown
