discovery_jet

Discover our Jet Boat/Rafting Team Builder Combo

Mon, 29 Aug 2016 21:55:05 GMT

Discover our Jet Boat/Rafting Team Builder Combo

River yakking is an incredibly fun, exciting and achievable team building adventure. It provides the opportunity to not only experience and enjoy our rivers and enhance team effectiveness and morale, but it reminds us of the beauty and what it means to live in New Zealand. Combined with a seat of your pants Jet Boat ride, it makes for the ultimate combo! It’s refreshing, it’s invigorating, it’s inspiring, and it’s good for the soul.

River yaks are easily manoeuvrable white water inflatable kayaks that comfortably seat two adults and are designed to be used on lower grade white water rapids. The rapids on the rivers we use are all grade 2 and below, which makes even the most anxious of people feel more comfortable. Plenty of challenge still exists for the more adventurous however, with there being many obstacles and optional challenges for them to negotiate. Qualified guides accompany you the entire way to guide and support you. Coordination, planning, communication and commitment are some of the team elements required to successfully navigate your way downstream.

Depending on the purpose and outcomes, plenty of opportunity exists to stop, discuss and reflect on the team effectiveness and performance. Rock jumps, water fights, pirate raids and ambushes occasionally occur on the flatter sections of the river, which often result in a number of folk separated from their river yak, laughing splashing and simply loving the shared team experience......however once the rapids come into view, it’s all hands back on deck.

A race up the mighty Rakaia

Tue, 26 Aug 2014 21:53:26 GMT

A race up the mighty Rakaia

If you've ever attended a Formula One grand prix, you will understand the thrill and intensity of the futuristic cars as they defy logic at unbelievable speeds. Jet boating is a little like that.

Except, you're on the water, someone else is driving and you get to enjoy the view.

Discovery Jet boat tours on the Rakaia Gorge, about 45 minutes' drive west of Christchurch, is a thrill-seekers wonderland.

The boats hurtle past sheer cliff faces, skim across shingle beds and round one jaw-dropping corner after another.

Recently purchased by Cantabrian lad Blair Grice, who worked for the company for three years before becoming its boss, Discovery Jet boasts similar thrills to Queenstown's famous Shotover Jet, but has the added attraction of the snowy Southern Alps framing the horizon and a range of "safari" options tailored to suit different tastes.

These include adrenalin-fuelled rides, a heli-jet combo, fishing remote stretches of the Rakaia or even alighting partway and walking back along the ridge of the river.

Grice is a personable chap, happy in his work and keen to point out the river's special features. These include towering coal and limestone cliffs carved out over millions of years. Grice also loves sending his boat into 360-degree spins, though he's kind enough to give a few seconds' notice each time and doesn't delight in soaking his passengers.

The trip starts a stone's throw from the Rakaia Gorge bridge, which carries State Highway 77 from Darfield to Methven, gateway to Mt Hutt.

The bridge was built in 1882 and is a striking platform from which to view the gorge swollen in flood.

On those occasions jet boating is not an option, with angry grey waters scaling the cliffs by several metres. Pick a sunny, clear day, however, and the river is paradise.

The grey and brown of the cliffs frequently give way to lush green pastures and bush, blue sky, snow-capped mountains and mesmerising blue waters apparently swarming with salmon and trout. It's hard to know where to look as the boat zips past the river's many nooks and crannies, but Grice knows the best vantage points and slows down or stops accordingly.

Tourism operators prioritise safety and Grice is no exception. Everyone wears a lifejacket and although the boat doesn't have seatbelts it never feels perilous, even during the spins.

The only downside to the experience is finishing.

As the boat pulls up to Grice's jetty it's tempting to ask him to take us out on the river again. In fact, why don't we?

Barney McDonald travelled as a guest of Christchurch & Canterbury Tourism.

By Barney McDonald

Mt Hutt opens for 2014!

Thu, 12 Jun 2014 22:12:30 GMT

Mt Hutt opens for 2014!

The 2014 Mt Hutt winter season has officially started under sunny skies and with a good covering of snow. The cold weather front that hit the region this week has ensured a good start for the season with a good base.

With no wind, the top temperature will be around 4 degrees.

Total Jet Boat Action - Hold on tight!

Mon, 13 Jan 2014 21:07:04 GMT

Total Jet Boat Action - Hold on tight!

Take a peek at a Discovery Jet ride. Thanks to our customer for producing this awesome video of their ride.

Discovery Blog

Wed, 08 Jan 2014 21:10:06 GMT

Discovery Blog

Discovery Jet are proud to parnter with Making Trax, a kiwi company who's mission is to enable those with disabilities to feel the amazing freedom of the great outdoors in the adventure capital of the world, New Zealand!

We're working with Making Trax to deliver our unique jet boating experience for their customers. Makingtrax is a non-profit company and relies on sponsorship and donations.

About Making Trax

Making Trax takes the time to discover the best and most professional adventure companies willing to spend extra time and effort to provide taliored adventure experiences. They endeavour to acquire adaptive equipment, information and network base. Making activities possible, fun and safe for any ability.

Making Trax came about from an intense thinking time during the 12 month rehabilitation period Jezza Williams, Company Director, faced following his Canyoning Accident in the Swiss Alps 2010. After a life spent in the great outdoors and now being faced with another extreme challenge, Jezza had to conjure up a way to get back out into the industry that he so loves and enjoys. Now a C5 Tetraplegic, Jezza believes if he can take part, then anyone can.

Making Trax director Jezza Williams has extensive knowledge and expertise in adventure tourism and adventuring having more than 15 years of experience in the industry. Gaining both National and International qualifications, Jezza has operated wilderness expeditions in Honduras , multi day rafting trips on the Zambezi, kayaking expeditions in Morocco, venturing through the Darién Gap in Panama, Canyoning in the Swiss Alps. Working for leading Adventure Companies in Australia, Africa, Canada, Switzerland United States, Central America and of course our own beautiful New Zealand. From running helicopter rafting operations to being the head ski patrol Jezza has almost done it all.

Makingtrax is a business with a unique ethic. They are focused on bringing life changing adventures and experiences to theirclients; not on maximising our profits.

Discovery Jet Trip Advisor Review 'Awesome Experience”

Mon, 06 Jan 2014 21:04:36 GMT

Discovery Jet Trip Advisor Review 'Awesome Experience”

Have a great time on Discovery Jet. The tour guide Blair took us out on the Rakakia River and it didn't disappoint. The jet boat ride is well worth doing with some great thrills and stunning scenery. Got some great photos too and the 360 turns were awesome! This is a must do if you're in New Zealand highly recommended to all ages.

This Day 2013! Rakaia River in Flood

Wed, 01 Jan 2014 21:02:11 GMT

This Day 2013! Rakaia River in Flood

This day 2013, the river was in serious flood. Not a day for the jet boatingt!

Big Day At The Office 2013

Fri, 29 Nov 2013 20:59:51 GMT

Big Day At The Office 2013

Discovery Jet were on standby to help on the Kayaking leg of the 2013 the Property Brokers Big Day at the Office Race. The race is a five stage Multi-sport, Duathlon & Run event based around the Methven Foothills which was founded by Simon Hampton in 2004. The race has become a must for any Coast2Coaster.

Due to weather conditions however, the race was diverted to the RDR. We're looking forward to supporting Methven Lions on the river in 2014.

Ready - Aim - Fire. Archery & Clay Shooting Combos

Sun, 15 Sep 2013 21:57:15 GMT

Ready - Aim - Fire. Archery & Clay Shooting Combos

We're delighted to announce our new partnership with Newzengland Ltd and to be able to deliver some new Discovery Jet combos.

In addition to a foot-to-the-floor adrenalin-pumping ride on Discovery Jet we can now bolt on an Archery and Clay Shooting leg to your experience.

Bullseye! The eye squints, the arm muscle tightens, the bow is drawn back and the arrow flies. Thwack! Off in the distance the target is pierced....Well, at least that’s the theory, but why not give it a go. You'll love it, and who knows maybe you really are the next Robin Hood!

Looking for the ultimate stress-release? This is safe family fun! Listen for the word “Pull’’ and watch as a clay bird is catapulted through the air. Trace its path with the barrel, keeping your eye focused on the clay all the time before pulling the trigger. Your adrenalin will be racing when you blast that clay into smithereens.

Drive your Jet Boat?

Mon, 26 Aug 2013 21:51:02 GMT

Drive your Jet Boat?

In 2014, we're working with the Methven Summer School to deliver a 1 day course which will cover subjects like river navigation to driving in different water. Discover Jet will share with you the skills needed to make the most of our amazing rivers.

Discovery Jet featured on Stuff

Wed, 31 Jul 2013 21:48:10 GMT

Discovery Jet featured on Stuff

Where the Rakaia River cuts through the Southern Alps on its way across the Canterbury Plains, a yellow jetboat gurgles, ready for take off.

Snow fans on a day off from Mt Hutt join tourists from Methven to experience one of the country's premier gorge explorations in a way that's safe and sure to exhilarate.

Jetboats have been running the gorge for more than 20 years, and the thrill of blasting up the milky channels of the classic braided river with Mt Hutt and the Southern Alps surrounding is a unique New Zealand experience.

Jetboat driver Blair Grice says his job is to give the customers the time of their lives, from boat-and-walk loops through rafting, fishing and hunting, to heli-combo filight and sightseeing.

"Pretty much, you name it and we'll make it happen."

The Big Dig Out!

Sun, 23 Jun 2013 21:20:23 GMT

The Big Dig Out!

Mt Hutt is closed once again today. The crew had a controlled avalanche yesterday that severely damaged the bottom return station of the Triple Chair.

The mountain received over 2.8 metres of new snow in last week's storm which was described as the largest in over two decades!

Mt Hutt had to fly staff in to start the massive job of clearing snow with patrollers carrying out avalanche control over the weekend from helicopters.

Discovery Jet - 5 Star Review, Jet Boat Canterbury

Sat, 22 Jun 2013 21:18:32 GMT

Discovery Jet - 5 Star Review, Jet Boat Canterbury

“When there's to much snow”

Don't forget to check this out while your staying in Methven. We had an awesome time made an average day end up great!

Craig M

Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

Mt Hutt Celebrates Opening Day

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 21:15:37 GMT

Mt Hutt Celebrates Opening Day

Around 1300 keen skiers and snowboarders helped Canterburys Mt Hutt celebrate its scheduled opening (June 15). The keenest of all the seventy or so waiting for the Summit 6 and Quad chairlifts to crank into action for the season, including four who had slept overnight at the ski area to gain coveted First On The Lift T-shirts were rewarded when both lifts started up fifteen minutes early at 8.45am.

Canterbury Severe Snow Warning

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 21:14:06 GMT

Canterbury Severe Snow Warning

Heavy Snow for Canterbury and Southern Marlborough

A very strong and cold southery flow spreads over the South Island tonight, with snow expected to lower to near sea level about southern and eastern areas.Heavy snow is expected about Canterbury, and southern parts of Marlborough above 300 metres, commencing in the south tonight, then further north Thursday morning.This is a significant event which is expected to persist through until Friday morning, accumulations likely to exceed 50cm above 300 metres, and 100cm above 500 metres. Lesser amounts of snow are expected below 300 metres, with significant rainfall accumulations likely with 60 to 90mm expected over the period.

Discovery Jet - 5 Stat review

Sun, 09 Jun 2013 21:12:16 GMT

Discovery Jet - 5 Stat review

Wow! On a backpacking tour through New Zealand, I figured I'd give the famous Kiwi jetboating a spin - the weather was perfect the day I ended up in Methven, so I found myself at the Rakaia Gorge. The owner, Blair, had a full crew with him today, and was busy chatting to everyone when I showed up. After a bit of a tour along the gorge (pretty scenic, with steep canyon walls and the mountains in the distance), he asked us if we were ready to do a spin - pretty sweet rush, not too dizzying (younger kids should be fine) but good fun. We stopped a few times, to point out something in the geography and to allow for some pictures.

As I'd never been in a jetboat before, the feeling of skimming the water was really cool - if you get the chance and the weather's right, I'd recommend doing this over another boat tour, just because it's a fast, unique way to travel, and it's still a bit of a secret - at least for now!

Ryan, Canada

100% Pure New Zealand

Mon, 27 May 2013 21:09:55 GMT

100% Pure New Zealand

We're lucky enough to enjoy stunning scenery almost everyday! The Rakaia gorge and southern alps deliver some spectacular views. Check out some of our crews photography in our scenic gallery.

Mt Hutt scheduled to open June 15th 2013

Sun, 26 May 2013 21:07:38 GMT

Mt Hutt scheduled to open June 15th 2013

With the Mt Hutt Ski season due to open in less than three weeks, you'll be able to keep an eye of the Snow Forecast here.

Snow Capped Alts

Sun, 19 May 2013 21:05:04 GMT

Snow Capped Alps

Some recent snow falls have delivered some spectacular views on our trips and some great photo ops for customers. If you have photos of a previous trip on Discovery Jet we would love to see them and hopefully publish them on this Blog!

Discovery Jet - 5 Star Review

Thu, 16 May 2013 21:03:19 GMT

Check out our latest 5 star review on Trip Advisor here.

'We are a doctor family from Mumbai, India and drove down from Christchurch to Rakia Gorge in 90 minutes. Our initial booking was for 930am. However, when we realized that we are likely to be late, Blair was kind enough to reschedule the trip for us at 1030am. He even called us up early in the morning to update us on the weather conditions. Incidentally we were the only ones at the Rakaia gorge that day and were lucky to have the boat and gorge (!) to ourselves. Blair was very friendly and ensured that we had a good time with many bonus 360 spins. The scenery was stunning and the jet boat was handled with dexterity. I have no hesitation in strongly recommending the discovery jet and its ride. Move over Shotover Jet.!'

Discovery Jet reviewed on Trip Advisor

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 19:54:09 GMT

Discovery Jet reviewed on Trip Advisor

Your feedback really helps us shape and deliver a great experience for our customers. You'll be able to read our customer reviews here. We also really encourage past customers to post reviews here.

Discovery Jet - Another 5 star review!

Sun, 31 Mar 2013 19:52:18 GMT

Discovery Jet - Another 5 star review!

'We did this on our first full day in New Zealand. Leaving from the bridge, Blair took us up the gorge in the jet boat (apparently these were invented in New Zealand as the rivers are too flat-bottomed to take an outboard motor). The scenery is amazing and the boats travel up to 60-70 kmph. Blair did plenty of spins for us which the kids really appreciated. Overall a great experience!'

Jet Boats in New Zealand

Sun, 31 Mar 2013 08:43:10 GMT

Jet Boats in New Zealand

Jet Boats have been about for a while!. New Zealand National Film Unit presents Jet Boats in New Zealand (1961)

Mr C.W.F. Hamilton, New Zealand inventor, demonstrates his jet boats on beautiful Lake Manapouri. Water-skiers skim behind jet boats on Lyttelton Harbour. The twin-jet 'Rangimarie' takes tourists up Wanganui River and jet-boaters shoot the rapids and shallows of the Waimakariri River.

Discovery Jet - New Promo Video

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 08:40:10 GMT

Discovery Jet - New Promo Video

Our new promotional video will give you a taster of what you can expect on one of our jet boat rides. Hold on tight!

Discovery Jet's New Site Now Live

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 08:37:02 GMT

Discovery Jets New Site Now Live

Welcome to our new site, live today. We've added some new features and deals for all of our outdoor adventures.

We've also a number of photo galleries which we hope you enjoy!