Skydiving in New Zealand – Backpacking tips

Everything about skydiving in New Zealand, locations, prices, jump heights and much more…

Today we would like to give you an overview of where you can skydive in New Zealand. What a skydiving in New Zealand costs and what heights are offered where. Since New Zealand's landscape is unique, a skydiving is especially worthwhile here. What better way to enjoy a skydive than with the view of magnificent mountains and nature? I have jumped out of a plane myself (tandem jump) here in New Zealand. Already in 2015, in a fit of exuberance, we dared the adrenalin kick. Would I do it again? JAAAA, was awesome!

 

 

 

What do I need for a parachute jump in New Zealand

Fortunately, you don't need much to go skydiving in New Zealand.

Apart from the minimum age of 18 (or the accompaniment of a parent or guardian) and the necessary money for the jump, it's good if you weigh under 100kg, as many providers have restrictions on the maximum weight for the jump. In addition, you will need to sign a form before the jump, which if you do, all risks will be borne by you (disclaimer). Skydiving only takes place in good weather conditions. It is advisable to call 2-3 hours before the agreed date to check if the weather conditions are suitable for a parachute jump. This way you can avoid disappointment on site.

As you will be firmly connected to your tandem partner for the jump, you will not have to worry about anything else and can enjoy the adrenaline rush.

 

Our tip for your parachute jump in New Zealand

Skydiving depends on the weather and is very popular in the high season from December to March. To avoid disappointment, we recommend that you book your jump in advance. If the weather is not suitable, you can either try again on another date or get your money back.

 

Skydiving on the North Island of New Zealand

On the North Island of New Zealand there are several possibilities to experience a nice tandem parachute jump. Prices and offered heights vary from 7500 ft (2286m) to 20000 ft (6096m). However, the higher the altitude the longer you can enjoy the free fall.

Auckland

There are two companies in Auckland that offer skydiving. From 7500 ft to 20000 ft you can try everything here in Auckland. The higher the jump height, the longer you can enjoy the adrenaline rush of free fall. At the same time, you have a great view of the east and west coast, Coromandel and the surrounding rivers. In good weather you can even see as far as Hamilton. Have fun and enjoy the adrenaline rush!

GoSkydive: With GoSkydive you can experience a tandem parachute jump from 7500 to 13000 ft in Auckland, which means 15 to 45 seconds of free fall depending on the jump height. The adrenaline level goes straight to the top. Just south of downtown (approx. 30 minutes’ drive), with views of the east and west coast, Hamilton, the Coromandel Peninsula, the Hauraki Gulf and the Waikato River. Jump with experienced tandem masters with years of experience. Enjoy the experience and prepare yourself, because you will surely want to jump again. Check out the availability and special offers at GoSkydive now:

• 7500 ft, 15 seconds free fall, normal price 250 NZD*
• 9000 ft, 35 seconds free fall, normal price 295 NZD*
• 13000 ft, 45 seconds free fall, normal price 325 NZD*

Check out the current prices and special offers for GoSkydive Auckland on Bookme*

 

 

Skydive Auckland: Ready to dive out of a plane? Skydive Auckland has the highest tandem parachute jump in New Zealand, a jump from 20000 ft height. Imagine the adrenaline level in free fall at 200km/h. And all this surrounded by the spectacular views of the east and west coast of New Zealand. After the free fall you enjoy the return to the ground, relaxed gliding on the parachute. And once you're down, you'll probably want to jump again. Book your jump now with Skydive Auckland:

• 9000 ft, 25 seconds free fall, normal price 295 NZD*
• 13000 ft, 45 seconds free fall, normal price 325 NZD*
• 16000 ft, 60 seconds free fall, normal price 425 NZD*
• 20000 ft, 85 seconds free fall, normal price 595 NZD*

Check out the current prices and offers for Skydive Auckland on Bookme*

 

Bay of Islands (Kerikeri)

There is only one company in the Bay of Islands that offers skydiving. But here you can enjoy the unique view of the sea and the numerous small islands and bays. Here you get a small sightseeing flight and a jump with a great view. The prices are comparable to Auckland, but the view is much better!

Skydive Bay of Islands: Enjoy one of the best skydives in New Zealand. Above the breath-taking landscape of the Bay of Islands you can enjoy a skydive with a unique view. Feel the anticipation that is already building up as you board the plane. Enjoy a nice scenic flight as we ascend high above the subtropical paradise of northern New Zealand. Enjoy the view of crystal-clear water, deserted golden beaches and lush nature from the plane. With up to 200 km/h we will then descend towards the earth in free fall. Come by for your jump with Skydive Bay of Islands:

• 9000 ft, 20 seconds freefall, normal price 299 NZD*
• 12000 ft, 35 seconds free fall, normal price 329 NZD*
• 16500 ft, 60 seconds free fall, normal price 419 NZD*
• 20000 ft, 85 seconds free fall, normal price 559 NZD*

Check out the current prices and offers for Skydive Bay of Islands on Bookme*

 

Taupo

In Taupo, surrounded by mountains and nature and with a view of the Tongariro Crossing, you can enjoy your perfect parachute jump. From 9000 to 18500 ft you can enjoy views and free fall. After a short flight with a view of Lake Taupo, you will go down to earth in tandem in free fall. Enjoy the free fall and the following glide before you feel the remaining adrenaline on the ground. The view in Taupo is definitely awesome. Have fun!

Taupo Tandem Skydiving: Jump with Taupo Tandem Skydiving, New Zealand's highest rated skydiving on TripAdvisor. Dive over snow-capped volcanoes and pristine Lake Taupo at speeds of 200km/h before catching your breath again with a breath-taking parachute ride back to earth. As an activity supported by Qualmark, your safety is our number one priority. Experience the adventure – over 200,000 jumps since 1992! Book your place for the next parachute jump in Taupo:

• 9000 ft, 30 seconds free fall, normal price 199 NZD*
• 12000 ft, 45 seconds free fall, normal price 279 NZD*
• 15000 ft, 60 seconds free fall, normal price 359 NZD*
• 18500 ft, 75 seconds free fall, normal price 499 NZD*

Check out the current prices and offers for Taupo Tandem Skydiving on Bookme*

 

Tauranga

Tauranga is idyllically situated directly on the water. Beside the beach, Mount Maunganui and the surrounding kiwi fields, you can look as far as Coromandel. In Tauranga there is only one company that offers skydiving. So, you can only choose from two different heights in Tauranga. Compared to the other places on the North Island the price is relatively high, but the view over the bay makes it a great place for skydiving.

Skydive Tauranga: Prepare for the thrill of a lifetime with Skydive Tauranga. Rise into the sky and discover Tauranga from high above. The professional instructors will point out some unique New Zealand features. You can see Lake Rotorua, Mount Ruapehu, the Coromandel Peninsula and White Island (New Zealand's most active volcano).

Once you are up there, you have to get back down. The fastest way to do this is in free fall at up to 200 km/h, after which you can enjoy a parachute ride over the magnificent Mount Maunganui with a view of the Pacific Ocean.

The memories of this breath-taking parachute jump will stay with you for the rest of your life. Book your place with Skydive Tauranga now:

• 10000 ft, 30 seconds free fall, normal price 325 NZD*
• 12000 ft, 45 seconds free fall, normal price 375 NZD*

Check out the current prices and offers for Skydive Tauranga on Bookme*

 

Skydiving on the South Island of New Zealand

You can also experience a great parachute jump on the South Island of New Zealand. No matter which spot on the South Island you choose, you can see the sea from any of them. As a special feature here on the South Island of New Zealand you can also experience an indoor parachute jump. A very special fun that is also possible in bad weather. Start with all the places where you can skydive on the South Island of New Zealand.

 

 

Abel Tasman (Motueka)

Abel Tasman National Park is located at the northern end of a range of hills between the two large bays of Golden Bay and Tasman Bay. Despite its name, the parachute centre for Abel Tasman is located in the small village of Motueka. It is the only local airport in New Zealand that also offers skydiving. The view in and around Motueka is magnificent and the view of the bay and the Abel Tasman National Park is epic. Definitely one of the most beautiful spots in New Zealand to try your hand at skydiving.

Skydive Abel Tasman: Enjoy a panoramic flight with breath-taking views of Abel Tasman, Farewell Spit, Nelson and Kahurangi National Park. As you see snow-capped mountains, golden beaches and turquoise sea, you will be taken up into the sky. And from there from an altitude of 9000 to 20000 ft in free fall down to earth. Towards the end of the trip you will have a gentle parachute flight and then you will be back on the ground, along with an adrenaline rush that is second to none. Go to booking for Skydive Abel Tasman:

• 9000 ft, 30 seconds free fall, normal price 289 NZD*
• 13000 ft, 50 seconds free fall, normal price 339 NZD*
• 16500 ft, 60 seconds free fall, normal price 429 NZD*
• 20000 ft, 80 seconds free fall, normal price 599 NZD*

Check out the current prices and offers for Skydive Abel Tasman on Bookme*

 

Franz Josef

On the west coast there is the only parachute jump possibility directly in Franz Josef. From there you have a full view over the Southern Alps and you can also catch a glimpse of Mount Cook. On the other side you have a perfect view of the Tasman Sea. A view of the glaciers is also included. You'll be provided with everything you need for a great parachute jump. Have fun with your parachute jump in Franz Josef.

Skydive Franz & Fox: Skydive Franz & Fox offer you the only opportunity for a skydive on the west coast of the South Island of New Zealand, also known as Glacier Country. Surrounded by New Zealand's highest mountains on one side, with spectacular glaciers and lush rainforest, and then the wild blue Tasman Sea on the other. If you've always wanted to skydive, you've hit the bull's eye here. Click here to go straight to booking for your adrenaline rush in the most impressive environment you can find:

• 13000 ft, 45 seconds free fall, normal price 339 NZD*
• 16500 ft, 60 seconds free fall, normal price 429 NZD*
• 20000 ft, 85 seconds free fall, normal price 599 NZD*

Check out the current prices and offers for Skydive Franz & Fox on Bookme*

 

Mount Cook

You can also experience a parachute jump in the immediate vicinity of Mount Cook. Here, the surroundings are just as characterised by snow-covered mountains and the New Zealand Alps as you have on the West Coast. Which of these you like better, that's for you to decide. Here at Mount Cook you also have a direct view of the surrounding lakes, Lake Pukaki and Lake Tekapo on the horizon. A magnificent view that you will definitely remember after your jump.

Mount Cook Skydive: Mount Cook Skydive offers you the opportunity to skydive close to Mount Cook. Contrary to the name suggests, you start here in the small village of Pukaki and only have a view of Mount Cook. The jump and flight do not take place from Mount Cook Village Airport. Nevertheless, the view of the snow-capped mountains is spectacular and the turquoise glacial lakes give their all to experience an impressive jump. With altitudes ranging from 9000 to 15000 ft, all common heights are covered. The highest jump with 20000 ft you have to experience somewhere else if this is important to you. Click here to book your parachute jump with Mount Cook Skydive:

• 9000 ft, 30 seconds free fall, normal price 289 NZD*
• 13000 ft, 45 seconds free fall, normal price 339 NZD*
• 15000 ft, 60 seconds free fall, normal price 429 NZD*

Check out the current prices and offers for Mount Cook Skydive on Bookme*

 

 

Queenstown

In Queenstown you have the unique opportunity to choose from a classic parachute jump, or in case of bad weather and fear of heights, you can book an indoor parachute jump. Even though the adrenaline rush of a classic parachute jump is stronger due to the altitude, we also really enjoyed the indoor parachute jump. More about this in the part about indoor parachuting. Queenstown is definitely well situated and offers a great view with the surrounding mountains. Continue to the selection for your parachute jump in Queenstown.

Outdoor Parachute Jump

In Queenstown you can also do a classic outdoor parachute jump. The right weather conditions

NZONE Skydive Queenstown: NZONE Skydive is the local provider in Queenstown for spectacular skydives in Queenstown. In addition to the unique location in Queenstown, NZONE is also the only skydiving provider known to us who can help people up to 115kg to jump on request. However, this is only possible by arrangement and with the consent of the tandem master. Continue with your booking with NZONE Skydive:

• 12000 ft, 40 seconds free fall, normal price 379 NZD*

Check out the latest prices and offers for NZONE Skydive Queenstown on Bookme*

 

Indoor parachute jump

Queenstown is the only place in New Zealand (that we know of) for indoor skydiving. In a wind tunnel you lie belly down and are kept flying by the pure speed of the air. A brilliant experience that we already had the chance to make in Germany and would definitely repeat. The big advantage is that you are completely independent of the weather and have someone at your side to help you fly. So, you are in control and can have as much fun as you want.

iFLY Indoor Skydiving Queenstown: Have you always wanted to try skydiving, but don't want to risk jumping out of a plane? Why not try indoor skydiving? You will get all the sensations of a skydiving jump, including free fall, without the flight in a small plane. You are in a vertical wind tunnel, so you float weightlessly in space and experience the thrill. Experience an unforgettable adrenalin rush in a completely safe environment. Go to booking for your indoor parachute jump in Queenstown:

• 2 flights, equivalent to 3 parachute jumps from 12000 ft, normal price 149 NZD*
• Virtual Reality Skydive, 3 flights of which 1x with Virtual Reality at a jump site of your choice, normal price 211 NZD*
• 4 flights, equivalent to 4.5 parachute jumps from 12000 ft, normal price 239 NZD*

Check out the current prices and offers for iFLY Indoor Skydiving Queenstown on Bookme*

Wanaka

Wanaka has been a gem, right at Lake Wanaka. There is also a company here that offers parachute jumps. At the same time, I made my first parachute jump in 2015 here in Wanaka. The surroundings, the view of the Alps and snow-covered peaks, as well as the view of the surrounding lakes is simply magical. The adrenaline rush during the free fall is also breath-taking. And believe me, I enjoyed the jump and would repeat it immediately if I was there right now. Wanaka is definitely one of the most beautiful skydiving spots in New Zealand. Have fun!

Skydive Wanaka:

• 12000 ft, 45 seconds free fall, normal price 369 NZD*

Check out the current prices and offers for Skydive Wanaka on Bookme*

 

The most impressive places for a parachute jump in New Zealand

1. West Coast Franz Josef & Fox
2. Wanaka
3. Abel Tasman
4. Bay of Islands
5. Queenstown

 

Share your experience with us

Have you ever done a parachute jump yourself? Then we look forward to your comment here under the articles. Where have you jumped? How did you like it? Would you recommend it to others?

Or do you even have a recommendation for a skydive that we have forgotten here? We are looking forward to your comment and say thank you!