| You might never imagine yourself finding the courage to jump out of an airplane or having the stamina to embark on a 4-day backpacking trip, but you would be surprised how contagious the Kiwi adventurous spirit can be. Below are just a sampling of great adventures that await for you in New Zealand. 
Photo source: AJ Hackett Bungy
1. Bungy Jump Queenstown - South Island Queenstown, so named in honor of Queen Victoria , is well-established as the "jewel in NZ's tourism crown", with more adventure options per square metre than any other similarly-sized town across the globe! And it was really Bungy that got the whole thing started in Queenstown; and then, set Queenstown up as the adventure-tourism capital of the world. For many, this would have to be the ultimate challenge. Make no mistake, the Nevis Highwire Bungy is not for the nervous - with a wild 134 metres (440 feet) drop, the river seems to rush towards you faster than you're rushing towards it!
Photo source: Skydive Wanaka 2. Skydive Wanaka - South Island Beautiful Lake Wanaka is situated at the base of the Southern Alps offering a breathtaking skydiving adventure over the mountains, glaciers, rivers, and lakes of Mount Aspiring National Park. See New Zealand's highest mountains, Mount Cook (Aoraki) and Mount Aspiring (Tititea), with glaciers that feed glistening rivers, crystal blue lakes, and the rugged World Heritage Mount Aspiring National ParkThis dramatic and mountainous landscape makes Skydive Lake Wanaka the most spectacular tandom skydive in New Zealand!
3. Raft the Kaituna - North Island THE KAITUNA - (Meaning eel food) Grade 5 The Kaituna boasts the Highest Commercially Rafted Waterfall (7m) in the World. In fact, there are 3 waterfalls among the 14 rapids; two smaller waterfalls to practise on before attacking the 7-meter drop named Tutea Falls . In amongst beautiful, clean/green NZ lives a great deal of Maori History - the area is renowned for the tribal wars of the past. Behind and around the Waterfall exists caves used for the hiding of women and Children, and later the burial ground of Chief Tutea. There are many Maori Myths and Legends associated with this River known to the locals as Okere (waterfall). The Kaituna River is situated at Okere Falls , between Rotorua (20 minutes drive) and Tauranga (45 minutes drive). 
Photo source: Tourism New Zealand 4. Hike the Routeburn Track - South Island The Routeburn Track passes through two national parks, Fiordland and Mount Aspiring , and is part of Te Wahipounamu, South West New Zealand World Heritage Area. The area is a haven for native birdlife: the Robin; Fantail; Parakeet; Bellbird; Yellowhead and watch out for the resident Kea at Routeburn Falls! The variety of landscapes will astound you: mountainous peaks; sheer rock faces; alpine basins; pristine lakes; cascading waterfalls; luxuriant forest; turqoise rivers and million dollar views around every corner.
5. Ski Mt Ruapehu - North Island Whakapapa, on the north-western slopes of Mt Ruapehu, is New Zealand ’s largest developed ski area. Within the 550 hectare (1360 acres) boundary there is excellent skiing and boarding for all levels. Whakapapa boasts all services and amenities that you would expect to find at any international ski area. Happy Valley is a complete learner’s area that is separate to the main ski area so beginners can progress in a safe environment. If you would like to learn to ski or snowboard, our cheap Discover packages are the ideal choice. They include a beginner Lift Pass , Rentals and a Lesson. For those who want more advanced terrain, the mountain has much to offer! There are 30 groomed trails and a huge variety of off-piste areas which intermediate and advanced skiers and boarders will love.
Check out the Top 5 New Zealand Adventures for yourself! You can spend time in New Zealand while attending a local university during a semester abroad or degree program. Complete an internship to gain valuable work experience in an international setting or enjoy a short term summer program so you don't miss any of your normal semester in the US or Canada. Questions? Contact us! |