Take Flight - Flightseeing New Zealand
Get a different perspective! Sightseeing by air is the ultimate way to get a breathtaking new angle on New Zealand's amazing scenery.
With such an incredible variety of terrain packed into these islands, the view from the air is often a stunning smorgasboard of mountains, hills, plains and oceans. Flightseeing enables you to access parts of the country that are often out of reach, such as White Island, an active offshore volcano, or a selection of majestic peaks deep in the Southern Alps. It can also give you a very different view of areas you might have already enjoyed on the ground. Off the coast of Kaikoura you can take in the incredible sight of Sperm Whales diving or pods of up to five hundred Dusky Dolphins playing in the waves. Fiordland is another great region for taking in a scenic flight - towering peaks, valleys and waterfalls take on new dimensions from the air. Opportunities for sightseeing by air are available out of centres the length of the country - cities, major towns and resorts. You can fly by amphibian, ski plane or helicopter - whatever you choose, the view is guaranteed to be spectacular - and rest assured that New Zealand operators must abide by strict safety standards.
For a peaceful variation on flightseeing, experience the sensation of powerless flight in a glider. Places such as Omarama in the Mackenzie Country are known throughout the world for their optimal gliding conditions. Twenty-three clubs around the country offer the opportunity to take to the air in a two-seater glider, accompanied by a qualified instructor. Another tranquil option is a scenic flight in a hot air balloon. The ultimate in romantic adventure, an early morning balloon ride on a blue-skied day, watching the world from above, will be forged in your memory. You'll find opportunities for ballooning in locations from Auckland to Queenstown.
If you're in need of a bigger adrenaline rush, no problem - the skies above New Zealand are the setting for some serious aerial adventure. The terrain in New Zealand provides great opportunities to try paragliding. This combination of hang-gliding and parachuting is easier to learn than either of those sports. The experience of soaring in unpowered flight is made all the more memorable against a backdrop of stunning scenery. Those new to paragliding can take a tandem flight. For those familiar and confident in the sport, there are plenty of opportunities. The Central Otago region, for example, offers a number of excellent flying sites suited to experienced practitioners.
Of course, the ultimate adrenaline rush has to involve jumping out of a plane and plummeting towards the earth. In both North and South Islands you'll find places to try skydiving. Freefall at 200 km/hr for half a minute, then your chute is opened and you'll drift gently back down to terra firma. Tandem jumps are perfect for beginners, or take some lessons and prepare to jump solo. Breathtaking views and clear skies make New Zealand an ideal place to try this unforgettable experience.