Auckland Jet Boat Tours

Auckland Jet Boat Tours runs from a red container at the top of the Karanga Plaza tidal steps, which makes it one of the easiest thrill rides in the city to reach on foot. The boat takes the whole family together, so nobody sits it out, and the drivers pitch the run to whoever is aboard — the spins and fishtails come thick and fast for a boatload of teenagers, and rather more gently for smaller passengers. The route heads out past the marinas and moored superyachts into the open Waitematā, close enough to the Harbour Bridge and the city towers to make the speed feel properly fast. Life jackets and full-length spray jackets are handed out before boarding, and the crew talk the boat through each manoeuvre before it happens, which takes the edge off for anyone who has never done anything like it. Departures run through the day, and booking ahead is wise.