Home to the latest and greatest in adrenaline activities for every type of thrill-seeker the choices are endless.
From the iconic bungy jump to whitewater rafting, jet boating remote rivers or mountain biking forest trails, zip-lining near snowy mountains, swinging across canyons and surfing down rivers, these are just a few of the ways you can get outside of your comfort zone in the Southern Lakes.
From a leisurely stroll along the lakefront to a jetboat ride into the very heart of the mountains, the variety of options is incredibly diverse offering pleasure or excitement for everyone.
Because of our mountainous region most activities are dependent on the weather. With the exception of a fishing guide and the Funyaks, there is no need to pre-book any activities. Upon your arrival we can talk through all your interests and options, take a look at the weather and then book accordingly.
Jet Boat the Dart River
Navigate deep into the alpine corridor of Mount Aspiring National Park, the challenging grandeur of the mountains and valleys will leave a lasting impression. Discover ice-capped mountains and glaciers, cascading waterfalls and crystal clear streams and pools, all while enjoying the thrill of being aboard your purpose built jetboat that picks up or drops off at Blanket Bay’s private jetty.
Funyaks
Begin the adventure with a Dart River Jetboat trip upstream, remove the sound of the V8 and replace it with bird song and cascading waterfalls as you paddle to Paradise in your inflatable canoe. Glaciers, rocky peaks, dense rainforest, crystal blue waters and shady chasms can be enjoyed from the serenity of your canoe. An adventure perfect for a family.
Bungy Jumping
For over ten years people have been thrilled at this Queenstown icon either by jumping themselves, or as official spectators. Bungy Jump (or watch) from the world’s first commercial site, or choose between four other heart stopping jumps ranging between 42 metres and 102 metres. Guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience.
Mountain Biking
Blanket Bay has Six Specialized bicycles are available for guests to use. Jump aboard and head off along the beach, or take a picnic lunch and venture further afield into Mount Aspiring National Park or Paradise itself.
Rafting
Experience the exhilaration of rafting on either the Shotover or Kawarau Rivers. No previous experience required- professionally trained guides will provide instruction and give a safety briefing. The more challenging Shotover River begins over peaceful waters, heading towards the exhilarating rapids of the lower Canyon. Flowing through the beautiful Kawarau Gorge, passing beneath the Gibbston and Chard vineyards, the Kawarau River offers a mix of gentle flowing water and mighty rapids.
The ultimate way to see Milford Sound and Fiordland is by helicopter. Located just a few kilometres from the Lodge lies the extraordinary World Heritage Area of Fiordland National Park, our private heli-pad is perfectly located to access this remarkable area.
Journey deep into the heart of the world-renowned Mt Aspiring National Park, where myth, heritage and fantasy come to life.
The Wine, Food & Arts Trail takes you to the homes and galleries of some of New Zealand's pre-eminent artists coupled with sampling Otago's finest wines and tastes along the way.
Experience a horseback adventure on our high country station. Whether a first time rider or born to the saddle, you will enjoy a stunning few hours within a horse riding landscape second to none in New Zealand.
Mountains of untracked powder await. Blanket Bay offers an ‘À La Carte Heli-skiing’ menu to suit a wide range of skiing and snowboarding abilities. Each heliski option has been carefully designed to offer a great degree of flexibility, allowing everyone to experience the tranquility, freedom and exhilaration of heliskiing.
Take a helicopter from the lawns of Blanket Bay to the most remote rivers of New Zealand’s South Island and experience some of the world’s best fly-fishing.
Take a walk, a ‘Great Walk’. This premier track straddles both Aspiring and Fiordland National Parks passing through some of New Zealand’s most awe-inspiring alpine landscapes. The track is one of New Zealand’s Nine Great Walks and is maintained by the Department of Conservation.
The area offers a year-round golfing destination and is home to some of the most spectacular golf courses in the country. 5 Golf courses within 1 hours drive from Blanket Bay will appeal to every level of golfer.