5 Breathtaking Tandem Skydives in New Zealand (Perfect for the First-Timer)

You never forget that moment, dangling your legs out of the plane door, 15,000 feet of clear New Zealand air below you, the exquisite mountain ranges all around and your friendly tandem instructor right behind. You know in a matter of seconds you’ll be experiencing the biggest adrenaline rush of your life. 

3,2,1...go. (cue big smile)

Some have described New Zealand as a skydivers paradise, and with good reason. What could be more overloading for the senses than falling at 140mph, surrounded by epic snow capped mountains, pristine blue lakes and winding green valleys as far as the eye can see. Oh and did I mention there are also glaciers and scenery straight out of Lord of The Rings?

Whether you’re a first timer or a repeat jumper, there’s no better place to get your next adrenaline fix, at any time of year. The question is, which one do you do? Luckily we’ve done the hard work for you, ready? Let’s jump in.

A mecca for adventure seekers, if you’re travelling through the South Island of New Zealand, you’re almost certainly going to spend a night or two in beautiful Queenstown. Which makes this Skydive an easy and convenient one to add to your itinerary.  NZone Skydive experience will take you from town centre to airfield in under 30 mins, and before you know it you’ll be free falling for up to 60 seconds alongside the glorious scenery of The Remarkables mountains and the turquoise waters of Lake Wakatipu. Book a 9,000ft, a 12,000ft, or a 15,000ft jump.

How does six lakes, the rugged Southern Alps, Mt Cook, and the South Island’s longest river (the Clutha) sound for your first sky dive? Wanaka is a charming town to add to your South Island itinerary, and the friendly team at Wanaka SkyDive offer a convenient pick up from either Wanaka or Queenstown. They’ll whisk you to the airfield for an experience of a lifetime.

One of the best value skydives in New Zealand, keep your eyes wide open during your flight to catch spectacular views of the Tongariro National Park and the Central Plateau. Also one for the Lord of The Rings fans, as you’ll get to take in amazing views of Mount Doom!! (Mt Ngauruhoe). The adventure begins with a super convenient hotel pick up that takes you to the activity location. 

A big change from the snowy mountains of the South, these 144 mythical islands claim to have the second bluest sky in the world, making it one of the most magical sky dives you can do. If you’re staying in Auckland this is also possible as a short excursion, being just a 3 hour drive away.  You’ll also have the choice to dive from 16,000ft, 12,000ft, or 9,000ft. Paradise awaits! Time to take the plunge?

Last but not least, the highest mountain in New Zealand, Mt Cook and the surrounding national park is the kind of picture perfect scenery you send home on a postcard. With snow-capped mountains, glaciers, meadows and lakes the short flight up is breathtaking alone. And before you know it you’ll be free falling ABOVE the highest point in New Zealand. 15,000, 13,000 and 9,000 ft jump options are available allowing up to 60 seconds of free fall.

So there you go! I hope that helps. Whichever you choose, you are guaranteed an experience you will be bragging about for months to come. All five Skydive locations offer additional photo and video services which you can book on arrival, so you can relive the experience or share that perfect picture on the Gram. Also here’s a handy table below with some useful info when making your decision. Happy jumping!