If you’ve ever dreamed of jumping out of an airplane while gazing over the stunning landscapes of New Zealand, this tandem skydive experience might just be the adventure you’re seeking. While we haven’t personally taken this leap, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of an unforgettable flight above Abel Tasman National Park.
What we love about this experience is the combination of professional guidance, breathtaking scenery, and flexibility in jump heights. The fact that you can choose between 10,000 and 18,000 feet adds a personalized touch, allowing adrenaline junkies and first-timers alike to tailor the thrill to their comfort level. Plus, the scenic 15-20 minute flight on the way up promises more than just the jump itself—it’s a full package of awe-inspiring vistas.
One aspect to consider is the weather dependency; since New Zealand’s weather can be unpredictable, your jump might be rescheduled if conditions aren’t ideal. This is a minor inconvenience compared to the potentially life-changing experience of soaring over one of the country’s most beautiful national parks.
This tour is best suited for adventure seekers, first-time skydivers, or anyone looking to tick an iconic activity off their bucket list with a trusted operator. Just keep in mind the age and weight restrictions, and you’ll be set for an unforgettable experience.
Key Points
- Stunning views of Abel Tasman National Park and surrounding turquoise waters
- Flexible jump heights from 10,000 to 18,000 feet
- Experienced guides ensure safety and fun
- Short scenic flight adds extra WOW factor before the jump
- Over 20 years of experience in tandem skydiving in New Zealand
- Weather-dependent activity, with options to reschedule or get a full refund
An In-Depth Look at the Abel Tasman Tandem Skydive Experience
When imagining a skydive over Abel Tasman National Park, you probably picture turquoise waters, golden beaches, and lush green forests stretching as far as the eye can see. That’s exactly what you get—and more. The tour begins at the hangar in Motueka, conveniently located for those staying in or passing through the South Island.
Looking for more options in Motueka? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
The Meeting Point and Logistics
Your adventure kicks off at the hangar on College Street in Motueka, a friendly and well-organized hub packed with safety gear and helpful staff. The process is straightforward: after a safety briefing, you’ll suit up with top-quality equipment. The guides here, like Hamish—a name mentioned in reviews for his professionalism and friendly approach—are seasoned experts ensuring you feel comfortable and well-informed.
The entire process takes around 3 hours, which includes the briefing, the scenic flight, the jump itself, and post-jump debrief. The tour typically operates from morning through sunset, giving you flexibility around your schedule.
The Scenic Flight
Before the leap, you’ll enjoy a 15-20 minute scenic flight over Abel Tasman with panoramic views of the coast, forests, and distant North Island. This flight alone is a highlight, as it provides a unique perspective of New Zealand’s rugged beauty. We loved the way this segment sets the scene for the adrenaline rush to come.
The Jump: Heights and Exhilaration
You can select from four height options: 10,000, 13,000, 16,500, or 18,000 feet. Those jumping from 16,500 or 18,000 feet will experience up to 85 seconds of free fall, which is enough time to feel the wind whipping past and truly appreciate the rush of falling at hundreds of kilometers per hour.
Reviewers consistently mention the professionalism of their guides. Julia from Germany called her experience “super friendly,” and appreciated the experience of her guide Hamish, who clearly knows what he’s doing while keeping it fun.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Parachute Ride and Views
After the free fall, the parachute is deployed, and you’ll glide for approximately 4-6 minutes over the park, beaches, and ocean. You’ll love the panoramic views of turquoise waters, golden sands, and lush greenery—the kind of scenery that makes you want to reach out and touch it.
Travelers have raved about how this part of the ride is a peaceful contrast to the adrenaline of free fall. “The views as far as the North Island,” one reviewer highlights, add an extra layer of awe, illustrating the vastness of the landscape.
Safety and Experience
With over 20 years of experience, this operation boasts a solid safety record. The guides are experienced, friendly, and attentive. Reviewers like the GetYourGuide traveler from the UK appreciated being “dealt with professionally and courteously, following safety principles.”
Price and Value
At $193 per person, this skydive offers excellent value considering the length of the jump, the scenic flight, and the reputation of the provider. For many, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and the cost aligns well with other adventure activities of similar thrill levels in New Zealand.
What’s Not Included
The tour price covers the tandem skydive, safety briefing, and equipment. However, it does not include food or drinks or hotel transfers—so plan accordingly. If you’re staying nearby, you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the hangar.
Practical Tips for Booking and Preparing
- Book in advance, especially during peak seasons, as spots fill quickly.
- Confirm your activity time when you call the local operator, as hours depend on weather and daylight.
- If you’re under 18, a parent or guardian must be present.
- We recommend wearing comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and secure footwear.
- Remember the weight limit of 220 pounds (100 kg).
- If you’re prone to medical issues, especially heart problems, check with your doctor before booking.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience suits anyone with a sense of adventure, an appetite for stunning scenery, and a desire to conquer a major bucket list item. First-timers will appreciate the guidance, while thrill-seekers will enjoy the heights and duration of the free fall. It’s less ideal for those with serious medical conditions or weight concerns, but otherwise, it’s accessible to most.
The Sum Up
This tandem skydive above Abel Tasman National Park combines breathtaking views, safety, and well-organized professionalism into an activity that many travelers consider a highlight of their New Zealand trip. The opportunity to choose your jump height allows for a tailored experience—whether you want an adrenaline rush or a slightly gentler flight.
For those who love spectacular scenery paired with a proven safety record, this tour offers genuine value. It’s perfect for adventurers eager to add a bit of sky-high excitement to their journey, and for anyone wanting to see New Zealand from an entirely new perspective.
Whether it’s your first skydiving experience or your hundredth, the memories made here—soaring over turquoise waters, golden sands, and lush forests—will stay with you long after you land.
FAQ
Is this skydive suitable for first-timers?
Yes, first-time skydivers are warmly welcomed. The guides are experienced and provide thorough safety briefings, making the experience accessible even for nervous debutants.
What’s the minimum age requirement?
You must be at least 18 years old to participate. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must be present on the day of the jump.
How long does the entire experience take?
The full activity lasts around 3 hours, including safety briefing, scenic flight, the jump, and post-jump debrief.
Can I choose my jump height?
Absolutely. You can select from 10,000, 13,000, 16,500, or 18,000 feet, depending on your adrenaline appetite.
Is there a weight limit?
Yes, participants must weigh less than 220 pounds (100 kg).
What if the weather is bad?
The activity is weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t suitable, the operator will call you at least an hour beforehand to reschedule or offer a full refund.
Are photos or videos included?
The tour price covers the jump, but photos and videos are not included. Some reviews mention the possibility of purchasing photos, though they can be pricey. It’s worth asking at the site if you want to capture your leap.
In summary, this Abel Tasman tandem skydive offers a carefully balanced mix of breathtaking scenery, professional guidance, and adrenaline. It’s a fantastic choice for those seeking a memorable adventure in New Zealand’s stunning South Island landscape.
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