Skydiving in Wānaka is as much a sightseeing flight as an adrenaline rush. You take off from the local airfield in a small aircraft and climb above Lake Wānaka, Lake Hāwea and the surrounding ranges, gaining a bird’s-eye view of the islands, the town and the mountains. At the chosen altitude you exit with your tandem instructor and freefall for about a minute at roughly 200 kilometres per hour, then the parachute opens and you float gently down for several minutes, taking in the scenery before landing near the airfield. Different altitudes are usually offered, with higher jumps giving a longer freefall. The experience takes a few hours in total, including briefing, kitting up and the flight. It is a weather-dependent activity, so flexibility is key.
How to visit
Bookings can be made in advance, and many options include a transfer from Wānaka town or from Queenstown, which is useful if you are based elsewhere. Operators may have weight and age limits, and health restrictions, so read the conditions carefully when you book. Plan for flexibility, since cloud, wind or rain can delay or cancel jumps, and a refund or reschedule is normally offered in those cases. Arrive on time for check-in and briefing, wear comfortable clothing and secure shoes, and avoid heavy meals beforehand.
What to expect
After the safety briefing and a fitting for the harness, you meet your instructor and walk to the plane. The climb to altitude takes about fifteen to twenty minutes, and the views of the lake, the mountains and possibly Aoraki / Mount Cook on clear days are spectacular.
The exit is often the most nerve-racking moment, followed by the freefall rush and then the quiet of the canopy. Optional photo and video packages are commonly sold, and many jumpers find them worth it as a memento. After landing, there is usually time to relax and watch other jumpers come in.
Making the most of it
Book early in your stay to leave room for weather delays, and pick the best-looking morning if you can. Higher altitude jumps cost more but give a longer freefall and a longer canopy ride, so choose based on budget and appetite. Bring a camera or phone only if the operator allows it, and be ready to follow your instructor’s guidance.
Skydiving is a physical activity, so avoid it if you have conditions that make it unsafe, and tell the operator about any medical issues. A relaxed lunch afterward helps settle the adrenaline.
Good to know
Skydiving carries inherent risk, and reputable operators follow strict safety rules and equipment checks. Ask about the operator’s safety record if you want reassurance. Wear layers, since the temperature drops at altitude, and remove loose items from pockets. Spectators are often welcome at the landing area, which makes it easy to bring friends or family who prefer to watch. If you are visiting in winter, jumps can still operate on clear days, and snow-covered mountains make for a stunning backdrop.
Think about the practicalities of the day: wear clothing you can move in, tie back long hair, and leave bulky jewellery behind. Eat lightly beforehand, drink water, and arrive rested. Many first-timers say the anticipation is worse than the jump itself, and that the calm of the canopy ride, with the lake and mountains spread below, is what they remember most. If you have a fear of heights, talk to your instructor, who will have seen it many times.
What to expect
The experience
A tandem skydive with a briefing, a scenic aircraft climb, freefall and a canopy ride over the lakes and mountains.
Best time
Clear, calm mornings, ideally earlier in your stay in case of weather delays.
How long
Three to four hours in total, with about a minute of freefall.
Tips
Book early, keep a spare day, wear secure shoes and comfortable clothing, and follow your instructor’s guidance.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Thrill-seekers who want views as well as adrenaline.
- Families
- Age and weight limits apply; family members can watch from the landing area.
- Couples
- A shared jump or one jumps while the other watches and films.
- Pair with
- A lake cruise or a relaxed lakefront dinner.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
How high is the skydive?+
Operators typically offer several altitudes, up to around 15,000 feet. Higher jumps give a longer freefall.
What if the weather is bad?+
Jumps are weather dependent. If cancelled, you can usually reschedule or receive a refund, so keep your plans flexible.
Can I skydive from Queenstown?+
Some options include transfers from Queenstown to Wānaka and back. Check the transfer details when you book.
Are there age or weight limits?+
Yes, minimum age and maximum weight limits apply. Check the operator’s conditions before booking.
Can friends watch the jump?+
Spectators are often welcome at the landing area, though check with the operator.