sky diving
Nothing can match a parachute jump
for a super sensation of flying, sheer speed and ecstatic
excitement.
Skydiving takes you as high as you can go in terms of
adrenalin-pumping adventure sports. Nothing can prepare you for
the phenomenal force of slipstream air on your face as you lean
out the aircraft door, think briefly about backing out of the
jump, and then plunge into space to free fall for 45 seconds at
around 180 kph.
New Zealand has some truly awesome locations for skydiving, with
views so startling that you almost forget where you are. Try to
choose a fine day with clear blue skies for your jump to
guarantee a breathtaking view, whether it be over snow-capped
peaks, a wild coastline or cityscape. Generally operators will
give you the choice of a solo or tandem skydive from a height of
9000, 12000 or 15000 feet. A training course is required for a
solo. For a tandem you will be shown an explanatory video, fitted
out with suit, helmet and goggles and you will dive with a
professional instructor strapped firmly on your back. The free
fall will last from 30 to 45 seconds and you will feel the
powerful whooshing sound of rushing air tearing at your suit and
goggles. As the chute is deployed you merely feel a slight tug
and the world suddenly becomes still and silent as you observe a
miniaturised earth below. The landing is relatively soft but the
euphoria and excitement is hardcore.
Skydiving locations in the North Island include Paihia, Auckland,
Mercer, Taupo, Rotorua and numerous airports in the lower half of
the island. In the South Island notable sites include Nelson,
Christchurch, Fox Glacier, Queenstown and Wanaka along with
several smaller airports.
It all adds up to 100% pure adventure and unadulterated fun in
the New Zealand drop zones.
As they say If youve got the attitude, weve got
the altitude, so the moral is just do it.
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