Known as the Adventure Capital of the World, New Zealand boasts an impressive smorgasbord of adrenaline-inducing activities that are sure to get your blood pumping and your palms sweating. Whether you’re keen to don a bungy cord and throw yourself off a cliff or take a dive off a landmark – New Zealand will deliver the thrills you so desire and so much more. travelBulletin explores some of the country’s most epic activities.
Leap off the Sky Tower in Auckland
Rated a must-do adventure activity by many visitors on travel review site TripAdvisor, the SkyJump offers a similar experience to BASE-jumping. Dare devils at the peak are dropped 192 metres from the Sky Tower (the country’s highest building) at a speed of approximately 85kph for around 11 seconds, before coming to a smooth landing in the plaza below. After you’ve braved the drop, you’ll be rewarded with a spiffy certificate in recognition of your efforts. To round off your Sky Tower experience, a walk along the edge is also highly recommended.
Ride your way to glory with Skyline Luge Rotorua
Situated in the heart of the country’s scenic volcanic region, the part go-cart, part toboggan thrill-ride is suitable for the whole family. The Redwood forest serves as the picturesque backdrop for the fast-paced experience, with the purpose built gravity-fuelled carts easily controlled by the rider. There are over four kilometres of luge tracks at Skyline Rotorua, with each one tapered to all skill levels. Once at the bottom, simply take the scenic chairlift back to the top of the track and begin your adventure all over again.
Scale the treetops of the Adrenalin Forest, Wellington
Located in the country’s capital, the Adrenalin Forest is sure to make your stomach churn. Here, you will be strapped into a safety line and harness as you manoeuvre your way through seven deathdefying obstacle courses – each more challenging than the last. The tree-top challenges range from a metre to 31 metres in height and include an array of barrels, swings and flying foxes to conquer. The park is located north of Wellington in Porirua, which is a 20-minute drive from the town centre.
Propel yourself from the Nevis Bungy
The 134-metre Nevis Bungy in Queenstown is the highest in New Zealand – and it is not for the faint of heart. Towering over the wild Nevis River, the drop features 8.5 seconds of free-fall. Jumpers will be exposed to speeds of 128 kilometres per hour as they are catapulted through space and once complete a souvenir t-shirt commemorating your bravery will be awarded to you. If you’re game, tack on the Nevis Swing experience, where you are strapped into a swing and released 160 metres above the canyon floor. Bonus points for those who try it upside down.
