Best time to travel to New Zealand

Shotover Canyon in New Zealand

If you like water extreme sports, try Shotover river and canyon and you'll remember it for the rest of your life​

Best time: October–November

Shotover Canyon
Shotover Canyon
Shotover Canyon

One of the most popular spots for extreme activities, ​Shotover Canyon, is located not far from Queenstown. It's famous for breathtaking rafting and jet boat rides as well as canyon swing which is advertised as world's highest cliff jump. Amazing river weaves and its bright blue water look unbelievably beautiful so make sure you have your camera on this trip. The best time to take a jet boat or raft is late spring ​since the water is high enough and not too cold during this time. Both cliff jumping and rafting are available a​ll year round.

Practical info

What is the best time to visit Shotover Canyon in New Zealand?

Late spring is the recommended time to visit Shotover Canyon in New Zealand. This time falls around October-November when the river's water level is high enough for water activities like rafting and jet boating. The weather is not too cold, and the overall experience is comfortable. It is advisable to avoid winter because the water is too cold to allow a pleasant experience. Show more

Where is Shotover Canyon located?

Shotover Canyon is located in New Zealand, close to the city of Queenstown. The distance from the center of the city is approximately 10 kilometers, and can be accessed using multiple modes of transportation, including renting a car or using public transportation. It is recommended that visitors book their activities in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, as they tend to sell out quickly. Show more

What kind of water activities can one do in Shotover Canyon?

Tourists can access various water activities in Shotover Canyon, New Zealand. Jet boat rides, rafting, and canyon swings are among the most popular ones. While having a jet boat ride, visitors can indulge in thrilling twists and turns while cruising close to the canyon walls. Rafting is also an exciting way to explore the canyon, and it supports all levels of expertise. For the most daring adventure seekers, the canyon swing, which is estimated as the world's highest cliff jump, is the recommended sport. Show more

When is the water level in the river high enough for jet boat or rafting rides?

Jet boat and rafting rides experience high water levels during late spring, around October-November, in Shotover Canyon, New Zealand. During this time, the temperature is not too cold, and water levels remain comfortable, providing an enjoyable experience. It's advised to confirm with the tour operators because the water level can change concerning the weather conditions. Show more

Is Shotover canyon swing the highest cliff jump in the world?

Shotover Canyon, located in Queenstown, New Zealand, houses the world's highest cliff jump called the Shotover Canyon swing. The jump promises an adrenaline-spiking experience for the most daring adventure seekers, and it remains one of the popular activities in the area. Booking in advance is recommended, mainly during the peak tourist season, as spots tend to fill up quickly. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin