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The South Pacific
Destination Guides:
Exclusive Resorts:
New Zealand Adventure Vacations
These days, “extreme” vacations are a growing trend, especially for those who enjoy living life “on the edge”. New Zealand is an ideal location for an adventure trip. The diverse geography of the two islands – North and South – allow for a number of nail-biting excursions and activities that will thrill even the most daring traveler.
Even if you’re only “a little daring”, you’ll find a wealth of eclectic activities here that will keep the adrenaline flowing. From snowboarding to diving, there’s a little something in New Zealand for every level of adventure vacationer.
Be sure to try ...
• Hiking (also known locally as “tramping”) – New Zealand is a mecca for hiking or trekking enthusiasts. The country takes good care of its hiking visitors, providing more than 5,000 miles (8,000 km) of trails – many neatly groomed and others quite rugged. If you prefer not to hike independently, there are dozens upon dozens of outfitters that offer amazing hiking excursions, often combined with other adventure activities like kayaking, climbing, or spelunking (caving). Multiple-day trips allow time to camp by one of the country’s many rivers or enjoy lodging in a backcountry hut in one New Zealand’s 14 national parks.
• Scuba Diving – The two islands of New Zealand provide a plethora of diving opportunities for divers of all levels. Most diving guides suggest Poor Knights Island as the premiere site for scuba aficionados, where you can explore the underwater remains of the flagship of the Greenpeace fleet, Rainbow Warrior, sunk in 1985 and now covered with interesting reef formations. Stewart Island, separated from the South Island by the Foveaux Strait, is chillier but also a wonderful dive location. Be prepared to show your dive credentials wherever you choose to go.
• Surfing – It you prefer to be atop the water rather than under it, you’ll find a number of exciting beaches on which to practice the art of “hanging ten.” Both islands feature many excellent surfing areas, according to locals. Check out Gisborne, one of the best, with consistent waves for more experienced surfers, or the sub-tropical Shipwreck Bay, good for all levels, including beginners.
• Bungee (Bungy) Jumping – The South Island’s Kawarau Bridge near Queenstown is just one of New Zealand’s premiere bungee destinations. As a matter of fact, New Zealand is considered the home of modern bungee jumping and you won’t be hard-pressed to find an outfitter that can suggest a number of different sites for your jump, whether you’re experienced or a nervous beginner. Auckland’s Harbour Bridge, by the way, was the first permanent bungee site in the world. Also check out Taupo Bungy, where you can choose a water touchdown.
• Jet Boating – The jet boat was developed by a New Zealand farmer to help navigate shallow rivers. Before long, however, jet boating was recognized as a potential adventure activity. This wet but exhilarating trip will take you through narrow gorges, past jagged rocks, and keep you screaming for more. Many of the country’s rivers host jet boating excursions.
• Skiing and Snowboarding – If you’re a Northern Hemisphere resident, you can head to New Zealand during the summer (their winter) to get your skiing fix. On the North Island, travel to the slopes of Mount Ruapehu in the Tongariro National Park. Actually an active volcano which last erupted in 1996, Ruapehu offers two fields – Turoa, good for beginners, and Whakapapa, more suitable for intermediates. Both accommodate snowboarders, too. At the far southern reaches of the South Island, Remarkables, Cardrona, Treble Cone, and Coronet Peak welcome international skiers and offer extreme sports like heli-skiing.
• Canyoning – Get your wetsuit ready! This ultimate adventure activity has you scaling canyon walls, repelling down jagged rocks, facing chutes and waterfalls, and puts you face to face with some of the most stunning scenery in New Zealand. Not for the faint of heart!
• Mountain Biking – One of the newest trends in New Zealand adventure activities is heli-biking, rather like heli-skiing with a new twist. Outfitters will take you to Tongariro National Park to experience this amazing new alpine adventure. Extreme bravery required! Plenty of “regular” mountain biking available, too.
• Air Adventures – If you prefer the clear blue sky to the rugged ground, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy New Zealand from the air. Choose from a flight-seeing tour, paragliding, gliding or sail-planing, sky diving, or hot air ballooning.