A tandem skydive is the biggest single adrenaline experience available around Auckland, and this one lets you choose the height of the jump: 13,000, 16,000 or 18,000 feet. The higher the exit, the longer the free fall, so the choice is really a decision about how much of the experience you want to spend plunging at speed before the canopy opens and the view takes over. You are attached to an experienced tandem instructor throughout, who handles the equipment, the exit and the landing, so no previous skydiving experience is needed, only a willingness to follow a short briefing and a reasonable level of health. On a clear day, the view from altitude takes in the Hauraki Gulf, the islands of the gulf and the shape of the Auckland isthmus, which is the part of the experience that people tend to remember longest once the adrenaline has faded. Photo and video packages are normally offered as optional extras, so decide in advance whether you want one.
Before you book
Skydiving is weather dependent, so build a spare day into your plans and expect to be moved to another slot if cloud or wind is unsuitable. Check the meeting point, the transfer arrangements and the arrival time on your confirmation, because the drop zone is outside the central city and the operator will tell you where to report. Wear comfortable clothes and flat, secure shoes, and avoid loose items.
Restrictions
Tandem skydiving carries age, weight and health limits that the operator sets, and the details are on the booking page, so read them before you commit. Anyone who is pregnant or has back, heart or other serious medical conditions should check with the operator and a doctor first. Alcohol before a jump is not appropriate.
Choosing a height
The lowest height is a good first step for nervous first-timers, while the highest gives the longest free fall for those who want the full experience. The price rises with the height, so compare the options at booking. If you want a calmer way to see the same landscape from above, the guided climb and bungy at the Harbour Bridge and the sailing and wildlife cruises on the Waitematā Harbour offer very different views.
Whichever you pick, book early in your stay, take the free cancellation window seriously, and plan something relaxed afterwards, such as lunch on the Viaduct Harbour or a quiet wander in Cornwall Park.
What to expect
The experience
A tandem skydive attached to an experienced instructor, with a choice of 13,000, 16,000 or 18,000 foot exits.
Best time
A clear, calm day; keep a spare day in your schedule in case the weather forces a reschedule.
How long
Allow roughly half a day for check-in, briefing, waiting for suitable conditions and the jump.
Tips
Check the age, weight and health limits, confirm the meeting point and transfer details, and decide in advance whether you want a photo or video package.
Quick picks
- Best for
- First-time skydivers and thrill-seekers who want a long free fall and a big view.
- Families
- Age and weight limits apply, so check the booking page before planning a family jump.
- Couples
- A shared adrenaline experience, with tandem instructors handling the equipment.
- Pair with
- A relaxed harbour lunch or a sail on the Waitematā Harbour on another day.
- Time needed
- Half a day, with a spare day in reserve for weather.
Good questions
What heights can I jump from?+
You can choose 13,000, 16,000 or 18,000 feet. The higher the exit, the longer the free fall before the parachute opens.
Do I need skydiving experience?+
No. You jump tandem, attached to an experienced instructor who handles the equipment, the exit and the landing after a short briefing.
What if the weather is bad?+
Skydiving depends on suitable weather, so jumps are rescheduled when cloud or wind is a problem. Keep a spare day in your plans.
Are photos or video included?+
These are normally offered as optional extras. Check what your booking includes and decide before the day.
Is there a weight or age limit?+
Yes, the operator sets age, weight and health limits for tandem jumps. Read them on the booking page before you commit.
