Auckland: 13000, 16000, or 18000-Foot Tandem Skydive

If the idea of soaring thousands of feet above Auckland while catching a glimpse of New Zealand’s spectacular coastlines sounds thrilling, then this tandem skydiving experience might just be your cup of tea. This tour offers jumps from 13,000, 16,000, or 18,000 feet, making it suitable for adrenaline junkies and first-timers alike. From the moment you book, you’ll find that the focus is on safety, stunning scenery, and an unforgettable rush.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the flexibility of altitude options, allowing guests to choose their comfort zone; the breathtaking views of Waiheke Island, Mount Ruapehu, and even Great Barrier Island; and the friendly, professional guides who turn what could be a nerve-wracking experience into a fun adventure. However, a potential consideration is the weather dependency—delays are possible if the weather doesn’t cooperate, especially in winter.

This experience is perfect for thrill-seekers, scenery lovers, or anyone looking to tick a bucket list box. Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a group, or celebrating a special occasion, you’ll find skydiving in Auckland offers a rare perspective on New Zealand’s natural beauty.

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Key Points

Altitude choices provide options for different experience levels and comfort zones.
Stunning panoramic views include Auckland, Waiheke Island, and distant mountains.
Professional guides like Mitch, Aaron, and others ensure safety and enjoyment.
Photo and video packages are available but at an extra cost, capturing your epic jump.
Meet at Skydive Auckland, with easy access from the city, making it a convenient trip.
Weather considerations can lead to delays, especially during winter months.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Skydive Experience in Detail

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The Itinerary and What to Expect

Your day begins with a straightforward meeting at Skydive Auckland, located just 45 minutes from the city center in Parakai. The entire process, from check-in to landing, typically lasts around three hours, but the actual skydiving part is about a 15-20 minute flight to altitude, plus the freefall and parachute glide.

Once you arrive, you’ll receive a thorough safety briefing and gear-up with all equipment included—harness, jumpsuit, and goggles. Your tandem instructor, often described as friendly, patient, and highly professional, will be with you every step of the way.

The plane ride to your chosen altitude (13,000, 16,000, or 18,000 feet) offers a chance to soak in the views. As the aircraft climbs, the excitement builds, and you’ll start to see Auckland’s coastlines, Waiheke Island, and on clear days, even Mount Ruapehu or Mt Taranaki.

The Climb to Altitude

The ascent is part of the thrill. Expect a noisy, bouncing flight with panoramic windows showcasing the landscape below. Many reviewers, like Iris, noted the stunning scenery from the plane itself, with her describing the view from 18,000 feet as “unreal” and “totally priceless.”

The Jump and Freefall

When the door opens, you’ll be securely strapped to your instructor. The moment of truth is here—your freefall can last up to 75 seconds, with speeds reaching up to 200 km/hr. The sensation of flying is made even more exhilarating by the panoramic backdrop of Auckland’s waterways, islands, and distant mountains.

Those new to skydiving tend to be surprised by the serenity of the parachute phase. Once the chute opens, you can expect to float gently and enjoy the view—an experience described as “flying” rather than falling. The silence and calm of the parachute ride contrast sharply with the adrenaline rush of freefall.

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Landing and Post-Jump

Landing is smooth, especially with guides like Mitch and Aaron, who are praised for their professionalism and care. The viewing deck allows friends and family to watch the landing, adding a communal feel to the event. Some reviewers, such as James, appreciated how guides made the experience “easy to understand, thorough, and put us at ease.”

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Photos, Videos, and Souvenirs

A highlight for many is the option to purchase a photo and video package. According to reviews, these are delivered quickly—often within 15 minutes of landing—and help capture the thrill forever. Many guests, like James, found these packages well worth the extra expense, especially since they provide a visual souvenir of such a unique experience.

The Practicalities

Pricing and Value

With a price of $202 per person, this skydive offers solid value when considering the included equipment, safety measures, and the sheer thrill of the jump. The different altitude options allow you to tailor your experience based on how much adrenaline you seek and your comfort level. Higher jumps mean longer freefalls and more dramatic views, but you’ll need to weigh the extra cost against your personal thrill threshold.

Accessibility and Logistics

The tour is wheelchair accessible, and there is no age limit—though minors under 18 require parental consent, with the highest jump (18,000 ft) limited to ages 12 and up. The only notable restriction is weight—guests over 220 lbs (100 kg) are not permitted, which is common in the industry for safety reasons.

You’ll meet at Skydive Auckland in Parakai, a scenic spot accessible from Auckland. The location is perfect for combining your skydive with other sightseeing or relaxing activities afterward.

Weather and Delays

Weather plays a significant role, especially in winter. Some reviews mention delays due to gloomy weather or wind, but staff communicate well, and most guests find the wait worthwhile. The staff’s professionalism and thorough safety protocols help put nervous first-timers at ease.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Safety and professionalism are consistently praised. “All staff members are very professional and knowledgeable,” noted Denise, highlighting how safety and experience go hand in hand.
Guides like Mitch, Aaron, and others are described as “supportive” and “incredible,” making even nervous guests feel confident.
Several reviewers, like Iris, shared that their jumps from 18,000 feet were “worth the wait” and unforgettable, especially the experience of flying through clouds.
Photos and videos are considered a highlight, with James stating, “Well worth the money” and the files arriving quickly after landing.
Guests love the views, with Iris describing her experience as “unreal” and “totally priceless,” emphasizing the scenic aspect as a major draw.

Who Should Consider This Skydiving Adventure?

This tour is ideal for adventure lovers wanting a high-impact experience and scenery enthusiasts eager to see Auckland and surrounding islands from above. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with heights and want a guided, safe introduction to skydiving.

While the experience is accessible to many, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, those over 220 lbs, or anyone with mobility restrictions not compatible with the equipment. The weather dependency means you should remain flexible with your schedule when booking during winter.

First-timers will appreciate the clear instructions and professional guides, and seasoned thrill-seekers will enjoy the option to jump from higher altitudes for an extended freefall.

The Sum Up

Skydiving in Auckland offers a rare chance to see some of New Zealand’s most stunning landscapes from a perspective few get to experience. The combination of professional guides, breathtaking views, and flexible altitude options makes it a compelling choice for both adrenaline junkies and sightseers.

At $202, the experience provides good value, especially with options to purchase photo and video souvenirs. It’s well-organized, safe, and offers a genuinely once-in-a-lifetime feeling of flying over Auckland’s coastlines, islands, and mountains.

If you’re after an adventure that blends natural beauty with a hefty dose of adrenaline, this tandem jump is definitely worth considering. Just remember, a clear sky and a good weather window are key for a smooth, unforgettable ride.

FAQs

How far in advance should I book my skydive?
It’s best to book as early as possible, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and altitude option.

Is there a weight limit for this skydiving experience?
Yes, participants over 220 lbs (100 kg) are not allowed for safety reasons.

Can I jump if I’m under 18?
Yes, but minors under 18 need to bring a parent or guardian and sign a waiver. The 18,000 ft jump is limited to people aged 12 and older.

What should I wear for the jump?
Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are required—avoid open-toed shoes. Wear weather-appropriate clothing, especially if jumping from the higher altitudes in colder months.

What if the weather is bad on my scheduled day?
Weather can cause delays or rescheduling, especially in winter. The staff communicates well, and most guests find the wait worthwhile.

Are photos and videos worth purchasing?
Many guests say yes, as the footage captures the thrill of the jump and makes for great souvenirs. Files are usually delivered quickly after landing.

In the end, this Auckland skydive combines incredible scenery, professional safety, and an exhilarating rush—perfect for making memories that last a lifetime.