Hanmer Springs is a playground of outdoor activities, thanks to its stunning mountains, rivers, and forests. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline rushes or tranquil nights under starry skies, this small town offers a surprising variety of tours. We especially like the Hanmer Springs Jet Boat Adventure Tour for its high-speed thrills through Waiau Gorge, and the Hanmer Springs Star Tours at Manuka Skies for a peaceful, awe-inspiring night sky experience. These excursions showcase the region’s natural beauty and are perfect for both adventure seekers and those wanting to unwind under the stars.
From jet boating to quad biking, Hanmer Springs offers activities that are hard to find elsewhere in New Zealand. The diversity of experiences makes this town a top spot for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and night sky lovers alike. Planning your trip? Consider your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend on each activity—there’s something here for almost every kind of traveler.
1. Hanmer Springs Jet Boat Adventure Tour
At number 1, the Hanmer Springs Jet Boat Adventure Tour delivers an exhilarating ride through the Waiau Gorge, covering more than 30 kilometers of the stunning South Island landscape. This tour lasts about an hour, with roughly 30 minutes spent speeding along the river on a powerful jet boat. The Hamilton jet spin adds a dose of adrenaline, making it a favorite for thrill-seekers.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of scenic beauty and high-speed excitement. As you zoom past towering cliffs, lush forests, and rugged mountains, you’ll feel the rush of wind and water—a true adventure for the entire family. The boat navigates through narrow gorges, where the skill of the driver is on full display. It’s a perfect option for those wanting a quick adrenaline hit blended with spectacular scenery.
Rated 4.9/5 from 81 reviews, the experience is highly praised for its fun and safety. For around $35 per person, it offers excellent value, especially considering the length of the ride and the scenic highlights.
Bottom line: If you crave high-speed action with the bonus of striking mountain views, this jet boat tour is hard to beat. It’s suitable for most ages, but the fast pace might be best for those comfortable with a bit of thrill.
2. Amuri Jet Adventures – Hanmer Springs Quad Biking tour
At number 2, the Amuri Jet Adventures Quad Biking Tour offers a two-hour off-road adventure through Hanmer Springs’ countryside. Available as both single and double-seater bikes, this tour allows you to explore terrain inaccessible by regular vehicle. The tour includes full safety gear and clear instructions, making it a great choice for beginners and experienced riders alike.
What sets this experience apart is its ability to access remote tracks and trails, offering a close-up look at the area’s natural beauty. Riders can enjoy navigating through forested paths, open fields, and rocky tracks, all while soaking up the fresh air and panoramic views. Kids can ride as passengers, making it a family-friendly option. The guides customize each ride to suit your skill level, ensuring everyone has fun and stays safe.
Rated a perfect 5.0/5 from 49 reviews, visitors praise the well-organized operation and the variety of tracks. The cost is $104.88 per person, which reflects the quality and duration of the experience.
Bottom line: If you’re active and love outdoor adventures, quad biking here offers a unique way to see parts of Hanmer Springs that most visitors miss. Suitable for all levels, it’s perfect for an energetic day out.
3. Hanmer Springs Star Tours at Manuka Skies
Number 3 on our list, Hanmer Springs Star Tours at Manuka Skies offers a truly unique experience—stargazing in an area with minimal light pollution. In a setting surrounded by native forest, you’ll explore the night sky with a range of equipment, guided by knowledgeable experts. The tour lasts about two hours and promises unforgettable sights of constellations, planets, and maybe even a shooting star or two.
What makes this tour special is its location: away from city lights, the stars are exceptionally bright here. The native wildlife, including the native Morepork Owls, adds a peaceful, authentic ambiance. The guide’s passion and expertise make the experience educational and engaging. Visitors have appreciated the tranquility, with one noting, “If we had time to stay and wait for the weather to clear, it would have been amazing.”
Costing $80.05 per person, the tour provides a memorable, immersive night out. It’s ideal for those interested in astronomy or looking to unwind under the night sky.
Bottom line: For a calming, educational experience that connects you with the universe, this stargazing tour is a fantastic choice—weather permitting.
4. Hanmer Springs: Guided Stargazing Tour
Position four goes to the Hanmer Springs: Guided Stargazing Tour, which combines easy access and expert guidance for an interactive night of star discovery. As you recline comfortably in a cozy lounge, you’ll use high-quality telescopes to identify constellations, planets, and celestial objects. The guides are well-versed and passionate about sharing their knowledge, making this a perfect option for beginners and seasoned astronomy buffs alike.
This tour emphasizes the storytelling aspect, bringing myths and legends associated with the stars alive. During the session, you can enjoy hot drinks and snacks, adding to the relaxed atmosphere. The native forest backdrop enhances the sense of being in a special, protected environment.
Rated 5/5 from 4 reviews, it offers a personalized experience that balances education and relaxation. The 2-hour experience is suitable for all ages, especially those curious about the night sky.
Bottom line: If you prefer a guided, comfortable introduction to astronomy, this tour delivers an engaging and cozy experience in Hanmer Springs’ dark sky setting.
5. Hanmer Springs: Waiau Gorge Rafting Tour
Rounding out our list at number 5, the Waiau Gorge Rafting Tour combines water thrills with stunning scenery. This two-hour trip guides you through Grade 2 rapids on the Waiau River, with the chance to marvel at rock formations and clear waters that host salmon and trout. After riding the rapids, you’ll be returned to base by jet boat, tying the adventure together perfectly.
What makes this tour appealing is its family-friendly rating and the chance to enjoy both rafting and jet boating in one day. The experience is lively but not overly technical, making it accessible for beginners with a decent level of fitness. The rapids are exciting without being intimidating, and the river’s clarity offers excellent wildlife viewing.
Rated 4.3/5 from 24 reviews, visitors appreciate the mix of adrenalin and scenery. At $99 per person, it offers good value for a two-hour outdoor adventure with multiple activities.
Bottom line: If you want a fun, active day on the water with opportunities to see local fish and rock formations, this rafting tour fits the bill.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Hanmer Springs
When deciding between these activities, consider your interests and physical comfort. For pure adrenaline, the Jet Boat Adventure is hard to beat, and more info here. If you prefer a slower, scenic experience, the star gazing tours offer peaceful nights under the stars, with guided options and Manuka Skies. For those who love off-road exploration, the quad biking tour provides access to remote trails and a chance to get active, while the rafting adventure combines water fun with stunning landscapes.
Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the jet boat or rafting tours, which offer great value for the experience. Families with kids often enjoy the rafting or quad biking, both of which have accessible options. Weather can be a factor—clear nights are crucial for star tours, so check the forecast and plan accordingly.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season (summer months), to secure your preferred times and avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
Hanmer Springs offers a rich variety of tours catering to almost every type of traveler—from thrill-seekers to stargazing enthusiasts. The Hanmer Springs Jet Boat Adventure provides a quick, exciting trip through dramatic scenery, perfect for adrenaline lovers. For a more relaxed but equally memorable experience, the stargazing tours allow you to connect with the night sky in a peaceful setting. And if you’re looking for active outdoor fun, quad biking and rafting are both excellent choices.
If you’re visiting Hanmer Springs, don’t wait too long to book—these tours fill up, especially in the busy season. With options to suit different budgets and interests, you’ll find something that makes your trip unforgettable. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, Hanmer Springs has a tour for you.