Dart River Jet locals' day raises $5000 for Paradise Trust

Image caption:  Wakatipu locals get ready for an exhilarating jet boat ride



Locals enjoy the scenery while funyaking.

Queenstown’s Dart River Jet raised an incredible $5000 for the Paradise Trust this weekend at the leading tourism operator’s annual locals’ day.

Wakatipu locals were invited to experience the wonders of Dart River Valley and stunning Mt Aspiring National Park on the world-renowned ‘Dart River Wilderness Jet’ or ‘Dart River Funyak’ at significantly reduced prices.

Dart River Jet business manager Clark Scott said the annual locals’ day enabled the company to “support the community that supports us”.

“It was the biggest turn out we’ve ever had to a locals day in Glenorchy,” he said.

All funds will go towards the Paradise Trust re-build project, following a devastating fire six months ago.

“Paradise really is a stunning area of natural beauty set in 300 acres of wilderness, he said. “The 1800s homestead, which burned down after being struck by lightning, was an iconic building that was well-loved in this area.

“We’re thrilled that through the generosity of local Wakatipu residents we’ve raised a mighty $5000 to help Paradise Trust,” said Scott.

Dart River Jet has extensively upgraded its systems, infrastructure and products in the past year. Mr Scott said the locals’ day gave the team great feedback on the upgrade.

“The success of this year’s locals’ day is a reflection on locals who really enjoyed our improved trip. It’s a good sign and I think we’re in for a bumper summer,” he said.

Paradise Trust manager Daman Groshinski said the trust was making good progress since the fire, and the local’s day donation was “a huge help” towards preserving Paradise for the enjoyment of all visitors.

“Thanks to the support of Dart River Jet we’re a big step closer towards seeing the re-build project become a reality, which will in turn raise funds to help preserve the unique natural beauty of Paradise,” said Mr Groshinski.

“Re-building’s a slow process, but thanks to community support from locals and businesses like Dart River Jet, it won’t be too long until Paradise can rise again from the ashes.”