From skydiving to heli-skiing and extreme white water rafting, there are so many New Zealand activities that’ll get the heart racing for those who are seeking an instant rush of adrenaline. If you’re keen to visit this beautiful country, we’ve rounded up the top 10 things to do in New Zealand so you can go on a holiday to remember.
1. Bungee jumping
If you’re looking for adrenaline activities in New Zealand that will really blow your hair back, you can’t go past bungee jumping. It’ssafe to say that this country, particularly Queenstown, is home to some of the best bungee jumps in the world. If you’re visiting Queenstown, we recommend heading to Nevis Bungy. At 134 metres, it’s the highest bungee in New Zealand, offering an unparalleled experience for thrill seekers.
2. Skydiving
When it comesto extreme New Zealand activities, there’s no doubt thatskydiving should be at the top of your bucket list. There are various locations where you can soar through the sky and soak up the gorgeous scenery, including Wanaka, Queenstown, Lake Taupo and Bay of Plenty (Tauranga).
3. The canyon swing
If you’re ready to take a leap of faith and plunge yourself off a cliff, only to fall 60 metres to the ground, the Shotover Canyon Swing in Queenstown will be right up your alley. While yourstomach may churn on the way down as you glide through the crisp air, you’ll also be treated to some of the most magnificent views Queenstown hasto offer. Is it terrifying? Yes. But isit worth it? You’ll be hard-pressed to find someone who disagrees.
4. White water rafting
If you’re a daredevil who enjoysthe water, you’ll love shooting the rapids and racing through the long and winding rivers. One of the most incredible outdoor activitiesin New Zealand, white water rafting will allow you to brave the wild and choppy rapids while having a 360 view of the country’s awe-inspiring landscape. If you’d prefer to up the ante, we recommend heading to the Kaituna River, home to the highest commercially rafted waterfall in the world— Tutea Falls(more than seven metres tall). The rapids quickly shift from a gentle grade one to an extreme grade five.
5. Jet boating
A scenic jet boat ride is a must for any New Zealand adventure. If you book a ride on the Shotover River, you’ll experience an unmatched thrill as the expert captain glides acrossthe water and shoots through narrow rocky gorges at lightning speed. While you may be tempted to shut your eyes in fear, you’ll have a full view of New Zealand sites of interest, along with the country’sjaw-droppingly beautiful scenery.
6. Zip lining
One of the best outdoor activities in New Zealand, zip-lining is a must! Prepare to fly through the treetops at a rapid pace while you gawk at the gorgeous harbour views and towering mountains that make this country so unique. While there are dozens of zip-lining adventures you can partake in, thrill-seekers should head to Kawarau Zipride, just 20 minutes from Queenstown. Whether you ride single, tandem or alongside six of your travel buddies, you’ll reach speeds of up to 60km per hour. Asif this wasn’t enough for one day, you can bungee jump there too! So, if you’re ready for another tummy-turning adventure, you can safely throw yourself off a cliff while you’re there.
7. Heli-Skiing
If you’re looking for fun New Zealand activities during winter, why not try heli-skiing? Fly to the top of the mountain,strap yourskisin, and head down the winding tracks while ploughing through fresh, virgin snow. While it’s no doubt an extreme New Zealand adventure, if you’re a seasoned pro or you want to traverse through untouched parts of the mountain, you’ll love every single rip-roaring moment!
8. Canyoning
Staged in remote mountain locations around Auckland, Coromandel, Nelson, Canterbury and Wanaka, if you’re up for an extreme New Zealand adventure, add canyoning to your bucket list. Under the watchful eye of your guide, you’ll be able to leap off waterfalls, climb jagged rocks and abseil off deep cliffs.
9. Off-road driving
With sweeping views and rugged terrain, New Zealand is one of the best placesto enjoy offroad driving. Whether you strap yourself into a monster truck and fly through the puddles or go zipping through the trees in a speedy go-kart, you’ll push yourself to the limit. Rain, hail or shine, this is one of the country’s most popular adrenaline activities,so book your action-packed adventure in advance with companieslike Off Road NZ before you visit other New Zealand sites of interest.
10. Hike a volcanic island
Looking for a less extreme outdoor activity in New Zealand that’llstill get your heart racing? Head to Rangitoto Island and climb the country’s youngest volcano, which erupted just 600 years ago. The walk to the summit begins at Rangitoto Wharf and climbsthrough the forest to the island’s peak at a whopping 259 metres above sea level. At the summit, you’ll experience panoramic views of the surrounding Hauraki Gulf islands, and on your way back down, you can visit the volcano’sincredible lava caves. Not only does Rangitoto Island offer adventurous activities, but it is also one of the most picturesque New Zealand places to visit.
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