Manutaki — Jet Boat Rapids Ride on Ngā Awa Pūrua, Taupō
He wai ka ihi
Energised in rapid waters
Fly with the awa on this exhilarating 35-minute jet boat adventure in the heart of Ngati Tahu-Ngati Whaoa tribal lands. Spin and speed from the Aratiatia Power Station to the base of the Aratiatia Rapids, along the white-water wonder of Ngā Awa Pūrua, the country’s biggest and longest rapids.
Inclusions
Traverse the massive Ngā Awa Pūrua rapids
Ngā Awa Pūrua translates as 'the place where the river divides and breaks into rapids'. These world-famous rapids are the largest commercially jet-boated rapids in Aotearoa.
Get up-close with Aratiatia
Learn about how the massive force of the awa is harnessed to create not just unforgettable experiences, but electricity too. Aratiatia refers first to the spectacular rapids and, later, the hydroelectric dam. When the dam is opened, 80,000 litres of white water per second roar out into the river. The dam was built in 1960, and the colossal size of the structure shows just how strong these waters are.
Speed through the narrowest canyon on the Waikato river
Our skilled drivers will take you at thrillingly high speeds through tight river canyons, including the moss-covered walls of the narrowest point on the whole river.
Hear our stories of connection with the awa
In the quieter sections of our journey, we share stories of Ngati Tahu-Ngati Whaoa. Our river is a life source of whakapapa (genealogy) and kai and has been an arterial route for trade and connection to whānau (family) for hundreds of years.
TESTIMONIALS
What our manuhiri say
Previously Rapids Jet
Pricing
ADULT
$155
CHILD
$89
FAMILY
2 adults, 2 children
$399
FAMILY
2 adults, 3 children
$488
How to get here
AWA is located about 15 minutes' drive north from Taupō, and 50 minutes' drive south of Rotorua.
Safety information
Our highly skilled drivers' knowledge of this river is deep, and our boats are custom-built to navigate every twist and turn.
