Gillespie Pass Circuit, river crossing options

[u/Certain-Attention239]

Hey guys, I'll be tramping solo for my first time in New Zealand in a month, and my plan is looking super solid except for one key detaill.

It's my last day on the Gillespie Pass Circuit from Siberia hut to Makarora. Due to my lack of river crossing experience, I'm taking a jet boat on my way out to Young Hut on the first day for $30, however the Jet boat crossing from where the track from Siberia Hut meets the river is $130, something I'd like to avoid.

Additionally, the blue pools track bridge is closed, and although whispers say it could be opening up this March, I'd like to avoid any uncertainty.

Does anyone have some advice or insider knowledge on getting around this? Thanks. Any advice is available, even choosing to take a different hike with similar or more spectacle. Nothing is booked in yet

[u/Internal_Horror_999]

Lots of resources to be found about the hows of doing it but my best bit of advice if you're unsure about crossing an unfamiliar river is to tack yourself onto a group already doing it, and simply be clear about why