Skippers Road: Everything You Need Before Visiting

Overview

Things to do

4.8 /5

2K+ reviews

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HUANG ********

2 Mar

Experiencing Shotover Jet during this trip to Queenstown was truly an unforgettable part of my entire New Zealand journey! From check-in, I felt the professionalism and efficiency. The on-site process was clear, the instructions were precise, and the staff were friendly and humorous, making me excited even before boarding. After putting on a life jacket and receiving safety instructions, my heart started racing. (But you can't bring a GoPro, and the merchant's cameras are currently being upgraded, so videos aren't available.) When the red jet boat plunged into the emerald green river, the thrill of gliding at high speed close to the water's surface was beyond imagination! The captain's skills were very refined, weaving through narrow canyons at high speed and performing rapid 360-degree spins. Each fishtail turn brought screams and laughter from the entire boat. It combined speed and precision, making it both exciting and reassuring, allowing you to fully enjoy the entire process. The riverside scenery was also spectacular. Rock walls, forests, and rushing water intertwined to create a stunning scene, allowing you to feel the raw power of New Zealand's nature. While waiting, walking along the riverbank and watching red speedboats cut through the water was a visual delight in itself. Best of all, the safety measures were comprehensive throughout, the equipment was well-maintained, and the level of professionalism was impressive. The photos taken were also of great commemorative value. Everyone's expressions were genuinely excited and happy, and you can't help but laugh when you look back at them. If you come to Queenstown, this is definitely one of the must-do activities. It's full marks for excitement, full marks for professionalism, and full marks for the overall experience. Highly recommended for travelers who want to create passionate memories! Next time I come to New Zealand, I will definitely experience it again!

Luke *******

19 Feb

An exciting experience with great scenery, expect to get a bit wet and possibly a bit of motion sickness 😅. They currently don’t have camera options but they give you options for photography once you arrive and get briefed.

LUO ******

16 Feb

It's 30 minutes of either screaming or heading towards screams, it's so much fun, never a dull moment. We happened to get a Japanese captain who was very funny.

Icarus ***

15 Feb

very nice jet boat experience with a brief bus tour for the Skippers Road. The jet boat experience last for like 10 mins and very suitable for family!

qiu ********

28 Jan

Super exciting and fun, very windy and cold. On the day we came to play, they happened to be upgrading the photography equipment and couldn't provide videos. We brought our own GoPro to film, but needed to rent a headband from them.

Mischa ****

15 Jan

I liked it very much. Ben was a very intusiastic Guide with a lot of knowlege about the Lord of the rings places.

Nidhi ******

14 Jan

We booked full.day tour and the morning and afternoon tours are operated by different companies..Morning tour was by Pure Glenorchy and our tour guide Tristen was a true LOTR fans. It was so fun to listen to all the inside stories of LOTR. afternoon tour was by Trails of middle Earth. our guide Benje (Gollum, as he calls himself) was very knowledgeable and LOTR expert as well. this tour is a treat for LOTR fans, like my husband 😄

Klook用戶

6 Jan

be sure not to drink as you cannot go to toilet for a long time, not difficult at all, many elderly join

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Embark on a journey through time and nature with a visit to Skippers Road, a breathtaking and historic route nestled in the heart of Skippers Canyon, New Zealand. This iconic road, carved by hand over 140 years ago, offers travelers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and rich history, making it a must-visit destination for adventurers and history enthusiasts alike. Nestled in the dramatic Skippers Canyon, Skippers Road is a testament to human ingenuity and the allure of the gold rush era. With its narrow, unsealed path clinging to the canyon's edge, it promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking both adventure and a glimpse into the past. Offering breathtaking views and heart-pounding adventures, this road is a thrilling journey through history and nature, with stunning views of the Shotover River. It's a destination that promises both beauty and adrenaline, making it a must-visit for thrill-seekers and history enthusiasts alike.

Skippers Road, Coronet Peak 9371, New Zealand

Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

Skippers Canyon

Welcome to Skippers Canyon, a breathtaking gorge carved by the mighty Shotover River. Stretching over 22 kilometers, this scenic wonder is not only a feast for the eyes but also a journey through history. Once a bustling hub during the Otago gold rush, Skippers Canyon invites you to explore its dramatic landscapes and uncover the stories of its golden past. Whether you're a history buff or a nature enthusiast, this canyon promises an unforgettable adventure.

Skippers Bridge

Prepare to be amazed by Skippers Bridge, a true marvel of engineering that gracefully spans the Skippers Canyon. Completed in 1901, this historic suspension bridge stands as a testament to human ingenuity, soaring 90 meters above the Shotover River. As you walk across, take in the breathtaking views of the canyon's sheer rock faces and feel the thrill of standing on one of the world's most spectacular bridges. It's an experience that combines history, beauty, and a touch of adventure.

Shotover River

Dive into the heart-pounding excitement of the Shotover River, once known as 'the richest river in the world'. This powerful waterway is a playground for thrill-seekers, offering adrenaline-pumping activities like white water rafting and jetboating. Beyond the thrills, the Shotover River is steeped in history, having played a pivotal role during the gold rush era. Whether you're chasing adventure or exploring its rich past, the Shotover River is a must-visit destination that promises both excitement and awe-inspiring beauty.

Culture and History

Skippers Road and Canyon are steeped in history, from the early gold rush days to the establishment of settlements like Charlestown. The area was also the site of New Zealand's first hydroelectric power generation for gold mining. The road has been a tourist magnet for over a century, drawing visitors from around the world to experience its unique charm and historical significance. It has also been featured in iconic films such as the Lord of the Rings and Mission: Impossible 6, adding to its cultural allure.

Heritage Protection

Skippers Road is protected by Heritage New Zealand, ensuring the preservation of its historical and cultural landmarks for future generations to explore and appreciate.

Historical Significance

Skippers Road was built during the gold rush, transforming a precarious pack track into a vital access route to Skippers township and the Upper Shotover diggings. Its construction between 1883 and 1890 was a major engineering achievement of its time. Carved out of solid schist rock by Chinese laborers using only black gunpowder and hand drills, the road served as a crucial access route for miners and remains a testament to the tenacity and skill of its builders.

Adventure Activities

For those with adventure in their veins, Skippers Road offers mountain biking, 4WD adventures, and thrilling water sports on the Shotover River. It's a destination that caters to both the adventurous spirit and the curious traveler.

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