A Unique Sightseeing & River Safari Trip
Combine History With Just Some Good Old Fashioned Family Fun
Family Adventures operate deep in the spectacular backcountry behind Queenstown, New Zealand. Our route follows the old Skippers road down “Long Gully” joining up with the Shotover river and up towards the deserted settlement of Skippers Township.
Gold was discovered in the Shotover River in 1862 and went on to become known as “the richest river in the world!” Hear the stories of fortune and hardship from this historic period as we travel the Skippers road (a feat of 1880’s engineering) and see the relics of the gold rush from the Shotover river itself. You’ll find it hard to imagine over 6000 people living and working in such an isolated and harsh environment.
The Adventure Begins...
The Drive Into Skippers Canyon
The trip kicks off with a 45 minute drive into the famous Skippers Canyon....
The Road through Skippers Canyon is quite possibly the most spectacular & scenic drive in New Zealand. The views are astounding and the area is packed with history and gold mining relics. Our knowledgeable guides will enthralled you with tales from the colourful gold mining last.
Gearing Up To Stay Warm And Safe!
At Family Adventures we kit you out with all the gear you’ll need from the ground up.
Wetsuit boots to protect your feet, wetsuit or overpants, spray jacket with sealed collar and cuffs to help keep the water out, fleece & a buoyancy aid (both warm and great for rapid swims) and finally a helmet to finish off the outfit so you can do this....
(A good tip is to wear your swimsuit under your clothing, it makes getting changed into your wetsuit at our Pipeline base easier and quicker).
And Off We Go!
We take to the water at the "Ford of Bruinen" made famous by the Lord of the Rings movie. We then enjoy a gentle scenic excursion packed with fun for everyone from 3 - 103 (older by arrangement). We float down gentle Grade 1 & 2 rapids only (takes approx 1-1.5 hours on the river). On the way see gold mining relics, sheer canyon walls and get to play on the odd rock jump.
​
Photo Packs Available
So you don't have to take a camera and risk losing it to the river (there are a few in there) our guides take pictures throughout the trip which you have the option to purchase for an extra $45. Well worthwhile for some great family memories. You can pre-pay for this when you book online or do it on the day.
​
0800 4 7238464
Professionally qualified raft guides
NZ Rafting Association Members
AdventureMark NZ Audited Activity