Edith Cavell Bridge
Iconic bridge over the vibrant Shotover River, offering dramatic canyon views and thrilling jet boat action.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos
Edith Cavell Bridge
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic bridge over the vibrant Shotover River, offering dramatic canyon views and thrilling jet boat action.
"A must-visit for its stunning turquoise waters and the exhilarating spectacle of the Shotover Jet boats."
🚗 Parking & Access
A public car park is available on the east side of the creek for easy access to viewpoints.
📸 Photography Spot
The bridge offers fantastic vantage points for capturing the Shotover River and jet boat action.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Shotover River Canyon Views
Edith Cavell Bridge
Witness the vibrant turquoise waters of the Shotover River carving through dramatic canyons. A truly breathtaking natural spectacle.
+1
Shotover Jet Boat Action
Shotover River below the bridge
Watch thrilling jet boats navigate the narrow canyon at high speeds, creating impressive spray and a spectacle for onlookers.
ANZAC Day Ceremony
Edith Cavell Bridge
Experience a poignant tradition where a piper plays on the bridge, paying respects to ANZAC soldiers.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Respecting Local Traditions
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking & Access
A public car park is available on the east side of the creek for easy access to viewpoints.
📸 Photography Spot
The bridge offers fantastic vantage points for capturing the Shotover River and jet boat action.
🚶♀️ Scenic Walk
Take a walk down to the waterfront opposite the tunnels for different perspectives of the river and boats.
💎 Rock Collecting
The Shotover Riverbed, accessible via the Oxenbridge Tunnel access road, is a good spot for rock enthusiasts.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking & Access
A public car park is available on the east side of the creek for easy access to viewpoints.
📸 Photography Spot
The bridge offers fantastic vantage points for capturing the Shotover River and jet boat action.
🚶♀️ Scenic Walk
Take a walk down to the waterfront opposite the tunnels for different perspectives of the river and boats.
💎 Rock Collecting
The Shotover Riverbed, accessible via the Oxenbridge Tunnel access road, is a good spot for rock enthusiasts.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking beauty of the Shotover River and its canyon, often remarking on the vibrant turquoise color of the water. The spectacle of the Shotover Jet boats is a major highlight, providing an exciting visual experience. Some appreciate the historical significance and the unique ANZAC Day ceremony. While the bridge itself is a road, the surrounding views and the river's allure make it a worthwhile stop.
"Whoooooosh. Come here to watch boats of tourists commence their downstream trip at breakneck speeds via Shotover Creek. There is a lookout on the east side of the creek, with a public carpark."
Justin Lam
"Went to see the lagoon water and absolutely loved the view. The colour of the river is actually what you see in the photos and videos."
Zeel Shah
"Lovely to walk down the path to the beach opposite the tunnels as well as to watch the rafters and jet boats"
moyski84
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Edith Cavell Bridge is located in Arthur's Point, a short drive from Queenstown. You can reach it by car, taking Arthur's Point Road. Public transport options might be limited, so driving or a taxi/rideshare is recommended.
Yes, there is a public car park available on the east side of the Shotover River, providing convenient access to the bridge and viewpoints.
While the bridge itself is a road, there are walking paths that lead down to the riverfront, offering different perspectives of the canyon and the bridge.
Public transport directly to the bridge is not widely advertised. It's best to check local bus routes or consider a taxi or rideshare service from Queenstown.
Many visitors enjoy watching the Shotover Jet boats from the bridge or the designated lookout points. You can also walk down to the riverbed for closer views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, visiting Edith Cavell Bridge and its viewpoints is free of charge. There are no admission fees to access the bridge or the surrounding scenic areas.
Parking at the public car park near Edith Cavell Bridge is generally free, making it an accessible attraction for all visitors.
Edith Cavell Bridge is an open road and accessible at all times. However, for the best experience and views, visiting during daylight hours is recommended.
Yes, the Shotover Jet boat ride is a separate paid activity. You would need to book tickets directly with the Shotover Jet company if you wish to experience the ride.
Access to the riverbed for activities like rock collecting or simply enjoying the view is generally free, but always be mindful of safety and any local regulations.
📸 📸 Photography
The vibrant turquoise Shotover River, the dramatic canyon landscape, and the action of the Shotover Jet boats are prime subjects. The bridge itself also offers a unique perspective.
Early mornings and late afternoons provide softer, more flattering light for photography. Midday sun can be harsh, but still offers good visibility of the river's color.
Drone usage may be subject to local regulations and airspace restrictions. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the Queenstown Lakes District Council before flying.
Yes, there's a lookout on the east side of the creek with a public car park, offering excellent views. Walking paths also provide alternative angles.
From the bridge, you can capture the boats speeding through the canyon, creating impressive spray. Drone footage can offer a more dynamic perspective of their maneuvers.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attractions are admiring the stunning Shotover River canyon, watching the Shotover Jet boats, and experiencing the historical significance of the bridge, especially on ANZAC Day.
Most visitors spend around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on whether they are just viewing or taking photos. If you plan to walk down to the riverbed, allow more time.
Yes, families can enjoy the scenic views and watch the jet boats. The walk down to the riverbed might require supervision for younger children.
The bridge is named after Edith Cavell, a British nurse executed during WWI. It also holds significance for the annual ANZAC Day ceremony.
There are cafes and restaurants in the nearby Arthur's Point area, offering refreshments and further views of the surroundings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the walk down to the riverbed might require extra supervision for younger children, the main viewpoints are easily accessible from the car park. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as amenities directly at the bridge are limited, though cafes are available nearby in Arthur's Point.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Aim for early morning or late afternoon for the best light, which will enhance the colors and reduce harsh shadows. Capture the thrilling Shotover Jet boats as they speed through the water, creating impressive spray. Drone photography can offer incredible aerial perspectives of the canyon and the boats' maneuvers, but always ensure you comply with local drone regulations.
+1🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Park at the designated lookout and take a few minutes to soak in the views of the Shotover River. If time permits, a short walk down to the riverbed or a visit to a nearby cafe in Arthur's Point can round out the experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Shotover River and its Canyon
+1The canyon itself offers breathtaking views, with steep, rugged walls that create a sense of awe. The contrast between the bright water and the dark rock is visually striking, making it a photographer's paradise. The sheer scale of the canyon is best appreciated from viewpoints like the Edith Cavell Bridge.
For those seeking adventure, the Shotover River is also famous for the Shotover Jet, a thrilling boat ride that navigates the narrowest parts of the canyon at high speeds, performing daring maneuvers. Watching these boats from the bridge provides an exciting glimpse into the adventurous spirit of Queenstown.
Edith Cavell Bridge: History and Significance
Beyond its namesake, the bridge has become a focal point for a touching local tradition. Every ANZAC Day (April 25th), the bridge is closed to traffic for a ceremony where a local piper plays in respect of fallen ANZAC soldiers. This event has grown in significance over the years, drawing attention to the bridge's role in community remembrance.
+1While it's a functional road bridge, its scenic location and historical context make it more than just a crossing. It offers visitors a chance to connect with both the natural beauty of the Shotover River and the poignant history of remembrance.
Rock Collecting by the Shotover River
This area provides access to the river's edge where various stones and minerals might be found, shaped by the river's flow over time. It's a more niche activity but can be a rewarding way to connect with the natural geology of the region.
When exploring the riverbed, it's important to be mindful of safety, wear appropriate footwear, and be aware of any local regulations regarding collecting. The unique geological formations of the Shotover Canyon make it a fascinating place for such discoveries.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit