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Paragliding In New Zealand: 5 Top Spots

If you’re reading this you’re probably in New Zealand and are interested in going paragliding or would like to go there someday and try it. Either way, your decision to go paragliding in New Zealand cannot be argued against. Indeed, New Zealand offers plenty of takeoff points across its two islands as well as breathtaking scenery!

If you’ve ever wondered what paragliding feels like, try imagining being an eagle, gliding in the limitless blue skies. In New Zealand, you can be an eagle over dormant volcanoes, beautiful beaches, craggy hills, and green fields.

In this list below, not only will we tell you about the top 5 spots for paragliding in New Zealand but also how to get there.

Paragliding in Queenstown

Paragliding in Queenstown, New Zealand

Adventure sports to Queenstown is like what fashion is to Paris. The adventure sports capital of the world is located on the South Island of New Zealand and is close neighbors with Lake Wakatipu and the striking Southern Alps. No visit to Queenstown is complete without flying above the city with the lake Wakatipu at your feet.

The most popular spot to paraglide from in Queenstown is from Coronet Peak, 10 minutes North of the city center by road, and 20 minutes by train. Paragliding in New Zealand, over Queenstown, is pretty much immune to seasonal variations, which means the calendar doesn’t dictate when you do this activity. Having said that, your views can alter from lush green to snow-clad mountain peaks, depending on winter or summer months.

While you soar in the sky, you have views over Lake Wakatipu, Lake Hayes, and the coniferous trees surrounding them, making paragliding in Queenstown, a satisfying experience.

Paragliding in Wanaka

Paragliding in Wanaka, New Zealand

Wanaka was a summer hunting and fishing spot for the Māori people and even today, it has managed to preserve its raw sense of wilderness. It is located on the South Island of New Zealand and is 1 hour North of Queenstown by road. The town shares its name and the border with Lake Wanaka and is surrounded by mountains, a bit like Queenstown.

The take-off spot for this activity is the Pub Corner which is 800 m above sea level making it the highest summertime tandem flight in New Zealand. While trekking through the region in and around Wanaka is magical, being airborne is a once in a lifetime experience.

Paragliding in Wanaka is like being on a hop on hop off bus tour as you make your way through iconic natural spots. The Matukituki Valley, Lake Wanaka, Mt. Aspiring, and Roys Peak to name a few of them. If you show up for the activity on a day with favorable weather, you could enjoy up to 20 minutes of air-time! However, if you’re not lucky, you will be in the air for around 12 minutes. So when can you expect favorable weather? The months between November and April (summer months) in New Zealand are perfect to profit from.

Paragliding in Christchurch

Paragliding in Lyttelton Harbor, Christchurch

Even though the earthquake of 2010 and 2011 compelled some of the stone buildings of Christchurch to crumble to rubble, the town is still characterized by English architecture. Despite its undeniable appeal as a regional hub, Christchurch is also a great outdoor destination in its own right. A short 15-minute drive from Christchurch’s city center, you will find your destination for paragliding: Lyttelton harbor.

Lyttelton Harbor is special because you will fly on the sea breeze, which leans you could, in theory, continually stay in the air and explore the coastline around Taylor’s Mistake bau and Scarborough Cliffs. This natural assistance allows you to stay in the air for around 25 minutes, as opposed to the standard 10 minutes, offered by other spots.

So why is Christchurch on our list of top 5 places to go paragliding in New Zealand? The seamless transition from land to sea as you glide over the beach makes paragliding in Christchurch absolutely breathtaking. On average, your airtime is around 20 minutes, giving you enough time to enjoy the views from Lyttelton Harbour and even the mighty Southern Alps, on a sunny day.

Paragliding in Nelson

Paragliding in Nelson, New Zealand

Art galleries and paragliding may sound like a strange combination but the city of Nelson can satisfy both needs. Nelson is 40 minutes away from Wellington by flight and 6 hours by road, on the South Island of New Zealand, facing the Tasman Bay.

Being one of the sunniest cities in New Zealand, Nelson isn’t a bad place to work on that tan. The sun also helps you to get a clear vision of blue skies and the coast of Nelson. Paragliding in Nelson begins at the hills that lie at the back of the city. Paragliding in New Zealand is an adrenaline-filled experience but paragliding in Nelson makes you appreciate the simpler things in life as it gives you time to reflect.

Paragliding in Auckland

Paragliding in Auckland, New Zealand

How could we make a list of spots for paragliding in New Zealand and not include the biggest city in New Zealand – Auckland. Whilst you cannot obviously paraglide in the city center itself, there are several options available to the thrill-seekers in the vicinity. Please note that transport from Auckland to the following destinations may or may not be available, depending on the instructor you book with:

Kariotahi Beach: This black sand beach, stretches for 30 km and is one of the most popular spots for paragliding because of the kind assistance from the sea breeze. While paragliding on Kariotahi beach, you’d be practicing a soaring flight, which means the takeoff spot is from a low height and coastal winds are utilized to gain height. This kind of flying is usually done along sea cliffs, ridges, and sand dunes. The beach is 58 mins away by road via the Stae Highway 1 and participants get the opportunity to view the horizon and potentially the sunset, depending on the time of the day.
Muriwai Beach: The Muriwai beach is 35 minutes away from Auckland’s city center and not only is it a great place for paragliding but also for surfing. If you aren’t a surfer, you will be glad to observe the wild waves from a distance, as you go soaring in the sky. At your feet, you can gaze at sea cliffs and an unusual number of birds!
Maungauika, North Head Devonport: If you’re seduced by metropolitan views as much as nature, Maungauika, which is just 20 minutes away from Auckland’s city center, is perfect for you. Categorized as a regular flight, one where you tandem paraglide from a higher altitude to a lower landing site, it has gorgeous views of Devonport, Cheltenham, the Hauraki Gulf but also Downtown Auckland in all its glory, the Harbour Bridge, and the Waitakeres.

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The most exciting bit is that you can go paragliding in Auckland, over various types of views. From the remote and gorgeous Kariotahi Beach to the dramatic dormant volcano of Maungauika; from the soothing green pastures of Dills Hills to the steep and dizzying Paeroa Range – Auckland has it all!

For the first time participants, paragliding can get a bit intimidating but reading up about the subject can help ease the stress: check out our complete guide to tandem paragliding. Outdoor activities in New Zealand are not limited to paragliding. For instance, if you’d like to go skydiving, have a look at the top 10 spots to go skydiving in New Zealand.

Paragliding In New Zealand: 5 Best Places That Let You Soar High In 2022!

Ever wondered what it is like to fly? To be able to feel nothing except the wind guiding you on an adventure? If your answer is no, then you must try paragliding in New Zealand. While beginners may try tandem paragliding, the experts can climb aboard an aircraft and glide in the beautiful skies far above New Zealand. All the adventure freaks, get packed and go feel the much-needed adrenaline rush in your body while you glide your way through the skies!

5 Best Places For Paragliding In New Zealand

For an adventurous and one of its kind experience, head out to these five best places that let you enjoy the best of paragliding in New Zealand along with a fun and exciting experience in the blue skies.

G Force Paragliding, Queenstown
Wanaka Paragliding, Wanaka
Wings And Waves, Auckland
Cloudbase Paragliding, Christchurch
Nelson Paragliding, Nelson

1. G Force Paragliding, Queenstown

Head out to the Adventure Capital of New Zealand to experience paragliding like never before. There are a number of operators that organize options for paragliding in Queenstown New Zealand, either from Coronet peak or Bob’s peak. Both locations offer breathtaking views of the town, the Remarkables mountain, and Lake Wakatipu.

Coronet peak paragliding in specific is a more popular choice among tourists. Paragliding Queenstown skyline can be real fun! And, if you are on the lookout for an instructor; your search ends at G Force paragliding. G force is one of the best paragliding company in New Zealand. It is the most experienced and reputed paragliding company with whom you can sign up for an exhilarating flight starting at the top of Skyline Gondola. Come and experience the best paragliding in Queenstown.

Location: Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
Timings: Daily 9AM–6:30PM
Phone: +64 3-441 8581
Prices: Early Bird flight- $219; tandem paragliding flight -$239

2. Wanaka Paragliding, Wanaka

Planning a trip during winter, but do not wish to lose out on the experience of paragliding in New Zealand? Work your way to Wanaka – a beautiful summit for paragliders who love to reign in the skies. Treble Cone Ski field in Wanaka offers a great setting for those interested to try their hands at a spot of paragliding. You will get to glide over 800 meters above the gorgeous Lake Wanaka and rolling mountains.

As you paraglide through the skies, valley after valley, you will get to witness stunning vistas and waterfalls that no regular hike will give you access to. And to enjoy this once in a lifetime experience, Wanaka Paragliding New Zealand South Island is your answer. Once you are airborne, you will be welcomed by breathtaking views of the Matukituki valley. On a clear and bright day you will also get to enjoy mesmerizing views of Lake Wanaka, Mt Aspiring, and Roys Peak among the other surrounding mountains.

Location: 2083 Wanaka-Mount Aspiring Rd, Treble Cone 9381, New Zealand
Timings: Daily 9AM–5PM
Phone: +64 800 359 754
Prices: Early Bird 10 am – $209; Treble Cone tandem flight -$229

3. Wings And Waves, Auckland

Looking for the most famous paragliding sites in New Zealand? Auckland – The city of sails is a great place to enjoy some paragliding in New Zealand. Those who wish to try paragliding may opt for a 20-30 minute guided adventure, where the instructor will handle the reins and the traveler can lay back and enjoy the scenic beauty from up above in the skies.

On the other hand, professional and novice paragliding enthusiasts can enjoy a great session of paragliding at over 40 different sites by signing up with Wings and Waves. The team offers not just paragliding, but also paramotoring and kite surfing lessons. Tourists can also hire, service or repair their gear and equipment at this centre. Wings and Waves offers unmatchable paragliding New Zealand prices that start at just $190 for a tandem paragliding trial flight.

Location: 26 Beresford St, Bayswater, Auckland 0622, New Zealand
Timings: Daily 9AM–6PM
Phone: +64 9-446 0020
Prices: Trial flight – $190; Intro day (training and 2 solo flights) – $240; Big day paragliding (training with solo flights + a big tandem flight with trainer) – $340

4. Cloudbase Paragliding, Christchurch

A lesser-known paragliding haven, Lyttelton Harbour area is just a few minutes drive, from the city centre of Christchurch city. Feel the excitement and exhilaration as you take on the skies on a paragliding trial flight. The tandem paragliding flight lasts a good 20 minutes and offers panoramic views of the Lyttelton Harbour, Christchurch’s blue beaches, and even the beautiful Southern Alps on a clear and sunny day.

While Cloudbase Paragliding is your best bet for paragliding, this aviation training institute is one of the best centres in the country that trains beginners as well as intermediates. This training center also offers tandem paragliding flights to discerning travelers.

Location: 18 Delta Way, Woolston, Christchurch 8023, New Zealand
Timings: Daily 9AM–5PM
Phone: +64 27 532 4874
Price: Tandem paragliding flight – $190; Tandem paragliding taster flights (take control under guidance of instructor) – $216

5. Nelson Paragliding, Nelson

Want to fly like a pro? Fly high in the skies of Nelson – one of the sunniest cities in New Zealand. This site is as good as you can get. Enjoy clear birds eye views of the entire coastline of Nelson as you take off for a fun and thrilling ride across the blue skies. Your flight will begin at the hills that lie at the back of the city.

While there are a number of operators who conduct classes for paragliding in New Zealand, it cannot get better than Nelson Paragliding run by none other than twice cross country and national champion – Stew Karstens. His flying school not only trains wannabe paragliders but also offer tandem flights at affordable rates. If you are worried about paragliding prices in New Zealand, then this spot will be perfect for you as it will be easy on your pockets.

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Location: Ngawhatu Recreation Ground, Stoke, Nelson, New Zealand
Timings: Daily 9AM–5PM
Phone: 03-544 1182
Prices: Tandem paragliding flights – $220

It is everyone’s fantasy as a child to fly and paragliding is as close as you can possibly get to experience the real deal. So, what are you waiting for? Now, when you know all about the best spots and paragliding in New Zealand, get packed, and try paragliding on your next trip to New Zealand where you can enjoy incredible views without burning a hole in your pocket!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Paragliding In New Zealand

Is paragliding in New Zealand safe?

Yes, paragliding activity in New Zealand is conducted by highly trained instructors, and safety gear is used to ensure a safe flight.

Where can I go paragliding in New Zealand?

You can experience paragliding in New Zealand in: 1. Queenstown 2. Wanaka 3. Auckland 4. Christchurch 5. Nelson

Can you paraglide in the rain in New Zealand?

It is not a good idea to paraglide in the rain for the following reasons: 1. Your paragliders may not be waterproof so rain-water would make it heavy and not fit for flying 2. Rain makes the ground slippery making take-off and landing difficult and risky 3. Rain may interrupt your vision during flight 4. Rain often brings along strong winds interrupting your control on the paraglider

Do you have to buy paragliding gear in New Zealand?

As a tourist, you can either bring your own parasailing gear or buy or hire it from the popular paragliding centers in New Zealand.

What is the best time to learn paragliding in New Zealand?

November to April are the best months to learn paragliding in New Zealand. A paragliding course in New Zealand lasts for 10 days. It includes all the paragliding equipment such as helmets, gliders, harness, and the radio.

Which is the best paragliding company in Queensland?

G-Force is the best company for paragliding in Queensland. You generally get to fly for 10 minutes but the maximum time for flying depends on the weather.

How much does a tandem flight cost in Queensland?

It costs approximately 10,000 INR per person for all tandem flights in Queensland which lasts for a few minutes.

Is paragliding in New Zealand available daily for flying?

Paragliding is available daily as long as the weather is good. The timings for paragliding are from 9.00 am to 6.30 pm. It is best to choose the morning time as afternoons can get hot and humid.

What is the best thing about Wanaka Paragliding?

You get to view beautiful vistas from a bird’s eye view and see places that are not possible even with the most difficult hikes. The view of the valleys and lake is breathtaking.

How many sites can you visit in 20-30 minutes of flying in New Zealand?

You can view nearly 30 to 40 different sites when you fly in New Zealand for this time duration. This is the world’s top-most destination for paragliding and is a must-try adventure when you visit it.

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Paragliding In New Zealand: 5 Best Places That Let You Soar High In 2022!