Adventure Holidays - Top 10 Recommendations
Jet Boating
Jet boating is suitable for all ages and levels of fitness and can be enjoyed the whole year round. Sit back, buckle yourself in and feel the acceleration.The jet boat was developed in the 1950s by New Zealand farmer William (Bill) Hamilton, to allow navigation of the shallow Canterbury rivers. However, enterprising New Zealanders soon realised its potential as an adventure activity.
A New Zealand jet boat ride will take you powering through narrow river gorges, almost brushing against sheer rock faces; or skimming across the surface of water channels that weave through the shingle banks of braided rivers.
Some of the most exhilarating trips are available near Queenstown and Canterbury. Other areas include the Buller and Makarora regions in the South Island and the Rangitaiki, Whanganui and Waikato Rivers in the North Island.
Jet boating is suitable for all ages and levels of fitness and can be enjoyed the whole year round. Sit back, buckle yourself in and feel the acceleration.The jet boat was developed in the 1950s by New Zealand farmer William (Bill) Hamilton, to allow navigation of the shallow Canterbury rivers. However, enterprising New Zealanders soon realised its potential as an adventure activity.
A New Zealand jet boat ride will take you powering through narrow river gorges, almost brushing against sheer rock faces; or skimming across the surface of water channels that weave through the shingle banks of braided rivers.
Some of the most exhilarating trips are available near Queenstown and Canterbury. Other areas include the Buller and Makarora regions in the South Island and the Rangitaiki, Whanganui and Waikato Rivers in the North Island.
Sky Dive
Skydiving in New Zealand is a popular adventure activity. What better way is there to take in the amazing views than from thousands of feet above it all?Welcome to the rush of skydiving. There is nothing like skydiving for sheer heart-stopping adrenalin and adventure and there is no place like New Zealand to do it.
New Zealand's magnificent landscapes take on an extra dimension when you’re 12,000 feet in the air. Skydive in Lake Wanaka or Queenstown and you will look from the vastness of the Central Otago high country to the snow-capped mountains surrounding the jewel- like lakes.
At the other end of the country, Lake Taupo has the largest commercial drop zone in the world and stunning views of volcanoes, forests and the lake itself. A Bay of Plenty skydive flight will take you over gleaming waters and geothermal wonders.
Skydiving in New Zealand is a popular adventure activity. What better way is there to take in the amazing views than from thousands of feet above it all?Welcome to the rush of skydiving. There is nothing like skydiving for sheer heart-stopping adrenalin and adventure and there is no place like New Zealand to do it.
New Zealand's magnificent landscapes take on an extra dimension when you’re 12,000 feet in the air. Skydive in Lake Wanaka or Queenstown and you will look from the vastness of the Central Otago high country to the snow-capped mountains surrounding the jewel- like lakes.
At the other end of the country, Lake Taupo has the largest commercial drop zone in the world and stunning views of volcanoes, forests and the lake itself. A Bay of Plenty skydive flight will take you over gleaming waters and geothermal wonders.
Zip Line
The thrill of zip lining includes an exhilarating combination of speed, adrenaline and nature. Zip lining has evolved from what used to be the most practical way of transporting across impassable areas such as canyons and rivers. Today it provides a new way to elevate your heart rate in a safe but exciting way.
New Zealand is the perfect place for zip lining as we are blessed with such wonderful locations throughout the country. The North Island's best locations are on Waiheke Island - for great views of Auckland Harbour, and Rotorua, where you can immerse yourself in a 3 hour wilderness experience.
In the South Island, the West Coast offers a combination of zip lining and river tubing. On to Queenstown you can take the gondola up the the top of Bob's Peak then look out at the Remarkable mountain range as you fly through the air.
The thrill of zip lining includes an exhilarating combination of speed, adrenaline and nature. Zip lining has evolved from what used to be the most practical way of transporting across impassable areas such as canyons and rivers. Today it provides a new way to elevate your heart rate in a safe but exciting way.
New Zealand is the perfect place for zip lining as we are blessed with such wonderful locations throughout the country. The North Island's best locations are on Waiheke Island - for great views of Auckland Harbour, and Rotorua, where you can immerse yourself in a 3 hour wilderness experience.
In the South Island, the West Coast offers a combination of zip lining and river tubing. On to Queenstown you can take the gondola up the the top of Bob's Peak then look out at the Remarkable mountain range as you fly through the air.
Bungy
New Zealand is the home of Bungy! For many visitors, bungy jumping in New Zealand is a rite of passage and their holiday is not complete until they take that scary leap of faith. The highest bungy is located in Queenstown - The Nevis and is a nerve wracking 134 meters.
Other locations around the country include the Auckland Harbour Bridge and in Taupo which drops 47 meters into the Waikato River.
Every day of the week locals and tourists alike enjoy the experience of a bungy among stunning landscapes. Bungy jumping remains one of New Zealand's most popular acvtivities for what ever reason you feel the need to jump!
New Zealand is the home of Bungy! For many visitors, bungy jumping in New Zealand is a rite of passage and their holiday is not complete until they take that scary leap of faith. The highest bungy is located in Queenstown - The Nevis and is a nerve wracking 134 meters.
Other locations around the country include the Auckland Harbour Bridge and in Taupo which drops 47 meters into the Waikato River.
Every day of the week locals and tourists alike enjoy the experience of a bungy among stunning landscapes. Bungy jumping remains one of New Zealand's most popular acvtivities for what ever reason you feel the need to jump!
Black & White Water Rafting
Whether it's a gentle journey a native wilderness or a white knuckled ride you're loooking for, you'll never be far away from a rafting experience in either island. The mountains of New Zealand's North and South Islands feed a myriad of fast flowing rivers. Grade 1 rivers are the more tranquil offerings, while a grade 5 river is regarded as an extreme adventure.
Whichever it is you're looking for you'll always be guided by a qualified rafting guide who complies with comprehensive safety codes. All gear and special clothing is provided.
In the North Island, the best area for rafting is located in the central part of the island around Lake Taupo. Lake Taupo's Tongariro River is home to three sections of white water, ranging from Grade 2 to Grade 4.
In the South Island, you’ll get the chance to try rafting around the resort town of Queenstown, Christchurch and on the West Coast. Some experiences include a combined helicopter and rafting experience. You can also try black water rafting through underground caves.
Whether it's a gentle journey a native wilderness or a white knuckled ride you're loooking for, you'll never be far away from a rafting experience in either island. The mountains of New Zealand's North and South Islands feed a myriad of fast flowing rivers. Grade 1 rivers are the more tranquil offerings, while a grade 5 river is regarded as an extreme adventure.
Whichever it is you're looking for you'll always be guided by a qualified rafting guide who complies with comprehensive safety codes. All gear and special clothing is provided.
In the North Island, the best area for rafting is located in the central part of the island around Lake Taupo. Lake Taupo's Tongariro River is home to three sections of white water, ranging from Grade 2 to Grade 4.
In the South Island, you’ll get the chance to try rafting around the resort town of Queenstown, Christchurch and on the West Coast. Some experiences include a combined helicopter and rafting experience. You can also try black water rafting through underground caves.
Mountain Biking
New Zealand has a diverse array of cycle trails that weave their way through spectacular scenery. Mountain biking is a popular recreational activity for locals and holiday makers alike, and there's no shortage of accessible tracks through out the country. Options are a plenty from short day rides to 9 day adventures, which can be fully guided, or self guided.
The most popular guided holidays include - The Central Otago Rail Trail, Alps To Ocean Trail, West Coast Wilderness Trail and the longer Great West Coast Cycle (road cycling).
For riders looking for a more challenging and technical adventure then Queenstown's Bike Park will find the downhill tracks breathtaking. The bike park is accessed at the top of the gondola (450 meters up). Once at the top there are a range of trails heading back down the hill catering for all abilities. The longest run is 6kms. If this is not enough for you, then you can take a helicopter tour offering 6 mountain ranges with 100kms of exclusive trains on private farms, and conservation lands offering an uncrowded way to experience this amazing location.
One of the North Islands best places to ride is in Rotorua at the Redwoods Forest - One of the oldest mountain bike networks in the country, with master crafted trails, unbeatable riding surfaces and fantastic scenery. It is no wonder Rotorua is renowned among mountain bikers as a premier riding destination. With around 130km of continually evolving trails, there is something to cater for all levels of rider, from beginners and family groups through to experts looking for extreme action.
New Zealand has a diverse array of cycle trails that weave their way through spectacular scenery. Mountain biking is a popular recreational activity for locals and holiday makers alike, and there's no shortage of accessible tracks through out the country. Options are a plenty from short day rides to 9 day adventures, which can be fully guided, or self guided.
The most popular guided holidays include - The Central Otago Rail Trail, Alps To Ocean Trail, West Coast Wilderness Trail and the longer Great West Coast Cycle (road cycling).
For riders looking for a more challenging and technical adventure then Queenstown's Bike Park will find the downhill tracks breathtaking. The bike park is accessed at the top of the gondola (450 meters up). Once at the top there are a range of trails heading back down the hill catering for all abilities. The longest run is 6kms. If this is not enough for you, then you can take a helicopter tour offering 6 mountain ranges with 100kms of exclusive trains on private farms, and conservation lands offering an uncrowded way to experience this amazing location.
One of the North Islands best places to ride is in Rotorua at the Redwoods Forest - One of the oldest mountain bike networks in the country, with master crafted trails, unbeatable riding surfaces and fantastic scenery. It is no wonder Rotorua is renowned among mountain bikers as a premier riding destination. With around 130km of continually evolving trails, there is something to cater for all levels of rider, from beginners and family groups through to experts looking for extreme action.
Off Roading
Thanks to our agricultural history we have diverse network of farm tracks and back roads that provide the perfect location for your off-road experience. Experiences vary depending where in the country you are, but each location offers amazing views, professional guides and unlimited fun!
Northland's Ninety Mile Beach is a great place ride along the expansive coast line and navigate the sand dunes. Further south in Rotorua you'll ride through some of the most picturesque native forest tracks with your guide.
As you move to the South Island you can ride on a high country sheep station, or head off around the foot of the mighty Southern Alps. For something faster a visit to Highlands Motor Sports Park is a must do. From Go Karts to fast laps in a racing car you'll need to buckle up here as the noise, the heat and the G Forces make their presence felt!
Thanks to our agricultural history we have diverse network of farm tracks and back roads that provide the perfect location for your off-road experience. Experiences vary depending where in the country you are, but each location offers amazing views, professional guides and unlimited fun!
Northland's Ninety Mile Beach is a great place ride along the expansive coast line and navigate the sand dunes. Further south in Rotorua you'll ride through some of the most picturesque native forest tracks with your guide.
As you move to the South Island you can ride on a high country sheep station, or head off around the foot of the mighty Southern Alps. For something faster a visit to Highlands Motor Sports Park is a must do. From Go Karts to fast laps in a racing car you'll need to buckle up here as the noise, the heat and the G Forces make their presence felt!
Heli Ski
Heliskiing in New Zealand is all about no compromises. It’s for adventurers who are seeking pure adrenalin and pure freedom in pure powder. If you’re an intermediate or higher skier/boarder, the South Island’s heliski operators will take you to open bowls and steep chutes that will make your toes tingle with anticipation.
The day begins with a weather check, then transport to the staging area. Safety briefings on avalanche transceivers and helicopters are followed by an effortless scenic ride to the ridge of your dreams. From here it’s all downhill through powder, as you and your guide lay lines on the slopes. After a gourmet lunch the afternoon continues with another flight to another mountain load of fresh runs
Heliskiing in New Zealand is all about no compromises. It’s for adventurers who are seeking pure adrenalin and pure freedom in pure powder. If you’re an intermediate or higher skier/boarder, the South Island’s heliski operators will take you to open bowls and steep chutes that will make your toes tingle with anticipation.
The day begins with a weather check, then transport to the staging area. Safety briefings on avalanche transceivers and helicopters are followed by an effortless scenic ride to the ridge of your dreams. From here it’s all downhill through powder, as you and your guide lay lines on the slopes. After a gourmet lunch the afternoon continues with another flight to another mountain load of fresh runs
Ski ~ Queenstown / Wanaka
Four commercial ski resorts make up the Queenstown and Wanaka offerings for snow lovers. Choose from The Remarkables, Coronet Peak, Cardrona and Treble Cone with something for everyone including Olympic sized super pipes, state of the art chairlifts, cruising groomed runs, big mountain style and spectacular views.
Coronet Peak
Just a 25 minute drive, Coronet Peak is the closest mountain to Queenstown. Stunning high points and rolling trails offer seasoned skiers and riders something to really get your teeth into. For those new to the snow, dedicated learner and novice areas make finding your snow feet easy.
• Varied terrain for all abilities
• NZ’s longest resort opening hours with Night Skiing/First Tracks
• Quick & easy on-mountain rental system
• Lifts: 1 high-speed six-seater chair, 2 high-speed quad chairs, 1 T-bar, 4 carpet lifts
Treble Cone
Treble Cone is the largest ski area in New Zealand’s South Island and offers the longest vertical in the Southern Lakes. Famous for its long groomed slopes, legendary off-piste and unrivalled views, Treble Cone is a place you have to see to believe. Treble Cone is located a short 30 minutes' drive or shuttle from the beautiful Wanaka or 95 minutes from Queenstown
Cardrona
Cardrona is located in the Crown Range only 60 mins (58 km) easy drive, shuttle or bus trip from Queenstown and 35mins (34 km) from Wanaka.
With consistently good weather and reliable snow conditions, Cardrona has superb, wide terrain spread across three main basins and NZ's only cabin-style ski lift 'The McDougall's Chondola'. Cardrona also boasts the Southern Hemisphere's most extensive terrain parks and pipes. Cardrona has the longest scheduled snow season in the South Island and is also open during summer! Lap the lifts on a mountain bike, mountain cart or just check out the Southern Alps with scenic lift rides or alpine walks. Summer tubing is a must & Cardrona also offers unique 'Alpine by Night' stargazing experiences.
Remarkables
Just 35 minutes drive from central Queenstown, The Remarkables is known for its friendly atmosphere, high altitude and north-facing sunny slopes. There’s something for everyone – plenty of space for beginners, dedicated freestyle areas, incredible big mountain possibilities and some of the best alpine views in the world. The area has just completed a multi-million dollar development with a new, purpose-built base lodge, high speed 6-seater chairlift and mostly sealed access road (10km of 13km ).
Four commercial ski resorts make up the Queenstown and Wanaka offerings for snow lovers. Choose from The Remarkables, Coronet Peak, Cardrona and Treble Cone with something for everyone including Olympic sized super pipes, state of the art chairlifts, cruising groomed runs, big mountain style and spectacular views.
Coronet Peak
Just a 25 minute drive, Coronet Peak is the closest mountain to Queenstown. Stunning high points and rolling trails offer seasoned skiers and riders something to really get your teeth into. For those new to the snow, dedicated learner and novice areas make finding your snow feet easy.
• Varied terrain for all abilities
• NZ’s longest resort opening hours with Night Skiing/First Tracks
• Quick & easy on-mountain rental system
• Lifts: 1 high-speed six-seater chair, 2 high-speed quad chairs, 1 T-bar, 4 carpet lifts
Treble Cone
Treble Cone is the largest ski area in New Zealand’s South Island and offers the longest vertical in the Southern Lakes. Famous for its long groomed slopes, legendary off-piste and unrivalled views, Treble Cone is a place you have to see to believe. Treble Cone is located a short 30 minutes' drive or shuttle from the beautiful Wanaka or 95 minutes from Queenstown
Cardrona
Cardrona is located in the Crown Range only 60 mins (58 km) easy drive, shuttle or bus trip from Queenstown and 35mins (34 km) from Wanaka.
With consistently good weather and reliable snow conditions, Cardrona has superb, wide terrain spread across three main basins and NZ's only cabin-style ski lift 'The McDougall's Chondola'. Cardrona also boasts the Southern Hemisphere's most extensive terrain parks and pipes. Cardrona has the longest scheduled snow season in the South Island and is also open during summer! Lap the lifts on a mountain bike, mountain cart or just check out the Southern Alps with scenic lift rides or alpine walks. Summer tubing is a must & Cardrona also offers unique 'Alpine by Night' stargazing experiences.
Remarkables
Just 35 minutes drive from central Queenstown, The Remarkables is known for its friendly atmosphere, high altitude and north-facing sunny slopes. There’s something for everyone – plenty of space for beginners, dedicated freestyle areas, incredible big mountain possibilities and some of the best alpine views in the world. The area has just completed a multi-million dollar development with a new, purpose-built base lodge, high speed 6-seater chairlift and mostly sealed access road (10km of 13km ).
Caves & Canyons
Cavers say that New Zealand has some of the most challenging and spectacular caving systems in the world, but even first-time cavers can enjoy our underground scenery. Caving experiences range from a dreamy drift through a glow-worm grotto to a rip-roaring, rope-dangling, action-packed subterranean adventure.
In the North Island the best known caving area is Waitomo Caves in the Waikato region. There are caves that you can simply walk through; there are caves you can float through (this is called black water rafting); and there are caves that require abseiling, climbing and squeezing.
The South Island has several caving areas - you’ll find guided underground adventures in Nelson, Fiordland and on the West Coast. Harwood’s Hole, just off the main Motueka-Takaka road in the Nelson region, is the deepest sinkhole in the southern hemisphere. You can look into it, but watch your step - it’s 180 metres straight down!.
Canyoning is the ultimate adrenaline adventure. Leaping off waterfalls, sliding down rocks and experiencing forest and river areas that few ever get to see.
The art of canyoning uses every part of your body and requires all kinds of skills - scrambling, climbing, jumping, sliding, abseiling, swimming and shouting "yeehaa" as often as you dare. It’s a wet business, but you’re equipped with a tough wetsuit that provides warmth and a useful amount of padding (rocks can be sharp!). Under the watchful eye of your guide, you’ll make the journey down natural rock canyons, water-polished chutes, waterfalls, pools and streams.
Your caving / canyon guides are all professionals and trained to lead you through your thrilling outing with them.
Cavers say that New Zealand has some of the most challenging and spectacular caving systems in the world, but even first-time cavers can enjoy our underground scenery. Caving experiences range from a dreamy drift through a glow-worm grotto to a rip-roaring, rope-dangling, action-packed subterranean adventure.
In the North Island the best known caving area is Waitomo Caves in the Waikato region. There are caves that you can simply walk through; there are caves you can float through (this is called black water rafting); and there are caves that require abseiling, climbing and squeezing.
The South Island has several caving areas - you’ll find guided underground adventures in Nelson, Fiordland and on the West Coast. Harwood’s Hole, just off the main Motueka-Takaka road in the Nelson region, is the deepest sinkhole in the southern hemisphere. You can look into it, but watch your step - it’s 180 metres straight down!.
Canyoning is the ultimate adrenaline adventure. Leaping off waterfalls, sliding down rocks and experiencing forest and river areas that few ever get to see.
The art of canyoning uses every part of your body and requires all kinds of skills - scrambling, climbing, jumping, sliding, abseiling, swimming and shouting "yeehaa" as often as you dare. It’s a wet business, but you’re equipped with a tough wetsuit that provides warmth and a useful amount of padding (rocks can be sharp!). Under the watchful eye of your guide, you’ll make the journey down natural rock canyons, water-polished chutes, waterfalls, pools and streams.
Your caving / canyon guides are all professionals and trained to lead you through your thrilling outing with them.