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As one of the country’s most thrilling experiences, Shotover Jet has been recognised as a Viator Experience Award winner.
Now in its third year, the Viator Experience Awards are based on positive ratings, reviews, and booking numbers using the Viator platform during 2023.
Shotover Jet has more than 1500 five-star reviews from manuhiri (visitors) on Viator, and another 6000 reviews on Trip Advisor.
Ngāi Tahu Tourism GM Jolanda Cave says it’s a great achievement.
“We’re humbled that our manuhiri have left such positive reviews after their time with us on the water. Our drivers love what they do and that shines through in the feedback we receive.”
Scrolling through the Viator reviews, manuhiri describe memorable moments in the jetboat, the incredible views, and how special it is to enjoy exclusive access to the awa (river).
Shotover Jet is fully owned by Ngāi Tahu Holdings and the influence of the iwi flows through the experience.
Rewi Davis, Ngāi Tahu Kaumatua and Te Rūnanga o Ōraka Aparima Representative, says the majestic Kimiākau Awa (Shotover River) has been home to his ancestors for centuries.
“The Kimiākau Awa is of great importance to Ngāi Tahu whānaui katoa. This is where the story of our freshwater starts, he wai te tōtō o te whenua, tō tātou tīpuna, e rere ana mai ki uta ki tai – the water is the blood of the whenua, our ancestor, flowing from the mountains to the seas.”
Upoko o Te Rūnanga o Moeraki David Higgins says the Kimiākau forms part of Ara Tawhito, a series of ancient trails used by Ngāi Tahu tīpuna (ancestors).
“Our enduring presence on this awa ensures our footprint in the valley is well and truly secure for future generations. Our people can continue to be amongst an area of huge importance to our ancestors.”
Shotover Jet business manager Donald Boyer says winning a Viator Experience Award is a tremendous honour.
“It recognises the hard work of our kaimahi to manaaki our manuhiri and validates our commitment to exceed expectations. It also inspires us as kaimahi to continue delivering exceptional and unforgettable experiences.”
Over his ten years as a driver, Donald has taken tens of thousands of manuhiri on jet boats. He says there is nothing else like it.
“It is one of the most thrilling and rewarding experiences. I love driving the boat during an adrenaline filled high speed adventure through the narrow canyons. People love the 360-degree spins.”
