Queenstown's Shotover Jet celebrates 60 years of adventure experiences

Shotover Jet, one of New Zealand’s most recognisable adventure tourism activities, is turning 60 - marking six decades of high-speed thrills and memories in Queenstown.

To celebrate the milestone, the Ngāi Tahu Tourism owned and operated business, is launching a series of special events and experiences throughout August, designed to honour its legacy and spotlight its future.

From its roots as a pioneering jet boat operation to becoming the only company permitted to navigate the dramatic Shotover River canyons, Shotover Jet has carried more than 4.6 million passengers since its first commercial ride in 1965.

At the heart of the celebration is a newly produced documentary, tracing Shotover Jet’s journey from humble beginnings to a globally recognised icon. It will premiere at a special event in Queenstown tonight and screen throughout October onboard Air New Zealand via the Tiaki Channel.

South Island iwi Ngāi Tahu became majority shareholders of the Shotover Jet Operation in 1999, securing full ownership by 2004. The half hour documentary explores the cultural and historical significance of the Kimiākau Awa (river) where Shotover Jet operates and highlights how the iwi maintains its ancestral connection to the river.

Jolanda Cave, General Manager of Ngāi Tahu Tourism, explained “Shotover Jet is the jewel in the crown for the Ngāi Tahu Tourism group.

“It was our first tourism purchase and the foundation of our evolution as Ngāi Tahu Tourism. It’s one of those experiences you remember forever - and a powerful platform to share who the iwi is with the world.”

As the 60th celebrations unfold, Shotover Jet remains committed to delivering world-class adventure, while deepening its cultural storytelling and continuing to welcome the world - one high-speed spin at a time.

Ngāi Tahu Tourism owns and operates world-class tourism experiences throughout New Zealand. These businesses include Shotover Jet, All Blacks Experience, Hollyford Wilderness Experience, Dart River Adventures, Dark Sky Project, Franz Josef Glacier Guides, Hukafalls Jet, Agrodome, and the National Kiwi Hatchery.

Images: Shotover Jet is a global leader in commercial jet boating (top) and Trevor Gable leads a Shotover Jet in the 1970s (below). Credit: Ngāi Tahu Tourism.