Path of Pounamu

Explore two of New Zealand's most untouched environments in one day!

Combine the best of both worlds on a full-day adventure that will let you explore two of New Zealand's most iconic wilderness areas: Dart River by jet boat and Milford Sound by air.

Your Path of Pounamu Experience

Your journey begins in Queenstown, from where you will embark on a scenic showcase helicopter flight over to Milford Sound and the West Coast.

Enjoy stunning views flying from Queenstown over the Southern Alps to your first landing in Milford Sound for a scenic walk and photo opportunity. Then fly the full 16km length of New Zealand’s most famous fiord taking in the sheer cliffs, gushing waterfalls and imposing mountains of Milford Sound all the way to the coastline. Land on an isolated West Coast beach to experience the truly rugged nature of this untamed region before heading back across the mountains for one last alpine landing on your way to Glenorchy.

The team from Dart River Adventures will meet you at the Glenorchy airstrip and take you on a short shuttle ride to Glenorchy township where you will have a 1-hour break to grab a bite at one of the local cafes of your choice* and check out the local shops.

After lunch check in at the Dart River Adventures Base building ready for your Wilderness Jet Experience. Enjoy an exhilarating jet boat ride from Glenorchy up the Dart River deep into the heart of the world-renowned Mount Aspiring National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Experience the ever-changing landscape of the Dart Valley, marvel at the braided river structure, water clarity, birds and wildlife. Our team will ensure you always experience the beauty of this untouched paradise!

With unrivalled National Park access, we cover up to 90km of river on a trip making Wilderness Jet Experience the longest jet boat ride in the region.

Following your jet boat experience enjoy a scenic drive back to Queenstown on one of our comfortable buses.

*Please note lunch is not included in the experience.

**Bookings for this product are managed by Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopters

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Jet boat travelling up crystal clear blue braided rivers

Jet Boat travelling up river with mountains and blue skies

Peak pricing: October 1st 2024 - April 30th 2025

	Adult Peak (aged 12 years+)	Child Peak (aged 0-11 years)
Pricing	$1,595	$1,110

Off Peak pricing: May 1st 2025 - September 30th 2025

	Adult Off Peak (aged 12 years+)	Child Off Peak (aged 0-11 years)
Pricing	$1,545	$1,090

The Trip Details

Departure times
- Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopters will provide a shuttle from Queenstown to their base near Queenstown airport in the morning.
- Dart River Adventures will pick you up from the Glenorchy Airstrip after your helicopter flight and drive you to Glenorchy township.
- After your jet boat experience Dart River Adventures will drop you back in central Queenstown.
Transport
- The Path of Pounamu Experience includes complimentary return transport from Queenstown.
- Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopters will pick you up from Queenstown and shuttle you to their base at Queenstown airport. You will land at Glenorchy Airstrip and Dart River Adventures will meet you and drive you to the township.
- Dart River Adventures will provide transport from Glenorchy back to Queenstown after your jet boat experience.
What to bring
- Sunglasses
- Woollen hat or beanie
- Gloves (during the colder months)
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Warm outer layer
- Sturdy footwear
- Small bag
- Camera - please note all belongings are carried at your own risk & you will get wet.
What we provide
- Highly experienced drivers, guides and pilots.
- A modern, well maintained fleet of helicopters and twin engine jet boats
- Life jackets (compulsory)
Restrictions
- Children must be at least 3 years old to travel.
- Minimum child height is 100cm, but may be increased to 120cm in some river conditions.
- This experience is not suitable for pregnant women, those with specific medical conditions, including people who suffer from back or neck injuries. Please contact us prior to booking so we can assess and advise your suitability to travel.
- Anyone who is under the influence of alcohol or drugs will not be allowed to travel.

Woman with woolen hat and lifejacket shown sitting in jet boat

Have further questions?

Check out our frequently asked questions for more information or get in touch with us today.

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Group of four kayaks in river paddling towards mountain range in distance

Breath-taking Scenery

Check out our photo gallery to discover the breath-taking landscapes of the Dart River and Mt Aspiring National Park.

Photo Gallery Book Now