For a taste of the wilderness that lies right on Wanaka’s doorstep, take a ride with Wanaka River Journeys up the Matukituki River and deep into Mt Aspiring National Park. Begin with the jet boat adventure on the glacier fed braided river, including a few wild spins and sliding turns. There’s also quiet time to enjoy this special location and the wildlife that resides here. Once you’re miles from civilisation the boat pulls up at an ancient beech forest where you take a 50 minute guided walk into a natural New Zealand few visitors get to see.