A rare opportunity to acquire a renowned, sustainable ecotourism business operating in one of New Zealand’s most spectacular wilderness areas — the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Westland Tai Poutini National Park. Waiatoto River Safaris offers exclusive guided jet-boat tours “from the Ocean to the Alps” through remote river valleys, rainforests, and alpine terrain.

The business is well established with strong branding, excellent online reviews, and a reputation for delivering high-quality, small-group nature experiences underpinned by environmental stewardship and community connection.

• Recognised among NZ’s top-rated boat tours on major travel review platforms.

• Strong eco-credentials: Qualmark Silver rating, Tiaki Promise signatory, and member of the Tourism Industry Aotearoa sustainability program.

• Turnkey operation with proven systems, assets, boats, and trained staff.

• All-weather capability with removable boat roof and low passenger thresholds (tours operate with as few as two guests).

• Located in a high-appeal region for international and domestic eco-travellers.

• Growth potential: expand tour offerings (photography, multi-day, seasonal), partner with lodges, enhance digital marketing, or add complementary activities.

Option A – River Operations Package
Includes boats, trailers, river access facilities, consents, jetty, and riverside departure base — ready to operate immediately.

Option B – Land & Infrastructure Package
Freehold property on Haast–Jackson Bay Road featuring dwelling, guest check-in office, hospitality area, large storage sheds, and full maintenance facilities.

Combined Purchase Opportunity
Both packages can be purchased separately or together as a complete turnkey operation, providing both the river-based tour infrastructure and the land-based headquarters. Together, they form a comprehensive eco-tourism enterprise with strong foundations, scalable capacity, and strategic positioning on the Haast–Jackson Bay route.

What’s included:

• Turnkey operation: boat(s) and equipment, booking/management systems, established website and digital presence, reputation and customer reviews.

• Fully documented operational processes, marketing assets and brand identity.

• Optionally (depending on negotiation) lease or transfer of site access/embarkation facilities.

• Clear sustainability credentials which act as a competitive advantage.

This business would suit an owner-operator passionate about nature, sustainability and high-quality tourism, or an existing tourism company seeking to add a premium niche offering in NZ’s West Coast region. Full training and transition support will be provided to ensure smooth hand-over and continuity of service quality.

This is most spectacular wilderness settings — built around small-group, environmentally responsible jet-boat safaris that deliver unforgettable experiences. With strong foundations, excellent reputation and clear growth potential, this business is ready for the next owner to take it to new heights. Talk to Adrian Chisholm, Tourism Properties today.