Thrill-seeking activities to do in New Zealand

From heart-pumping jet boat adventures to spectacular whitewater rafting experiences, New Zealand is the perfect playground for any thrill seeker. Alongside the rolling rapids and high-octane watersports, you’ll also find awesome quad biking in Nelson, unique bungy jumping in Auckland and other thrill-seeking adventures of a lifetime. Adrenaline junkies, it’s time to get your thrill on!

Jet Boating in Taupō

Jet boating in Lake Taupō. Image from Love Taupō.

Exhilaration is the name of the game on a jet boat ride in Taupō. You’ll speed along the beautiful Waikato River at a heart stopping 80 kms per hour, complete with dizzying 360 degree spins. You can take a ride out to the roaring Huka Falls, where the river thunders through a narrow volcanic gorge and barrels over the falls to the pool below. 

Or you can brave the white water of the Aratiatia Rapids, New Zealand’s biggest and longest rapids that churn from the Aratiatia Dam daily in a 500 horsepower Chevy V8 jet boat. Shoot through the narrowest canyon on the river and battle it out in the awesome Nga Awa Purua Rapids. Not for the faint of heart!

Where to stay

After your thrilling jet boat Taupō experience, catch your breath at one of the stylish, secluded yet centrally located places to stay. You’ll find accommodation near spectacular Huka Falls as well as rooms only a short walk from a fantastic array of local eateries, shops and must do activities.

Bungy Jumping in Auckland

Bungy jumping will give you the ultimate thrill. Image from Getty.

Take a leap of faith from incredible heights while enjoying breathtaking views of Auckland’s surrounding beauty. Since 1959 the Auckland Harbour Bridge’s distinctive arched shape has stood proudly over Waitematā Harbour. And today it’s also the site of a world-leading thrill, with Auckland Bridge Bungy offering unique plunges from the bridge, which includes the exhilarating opportunity to touch the water below. 

For an even more thrilling adventure, pair the jump with the Bridge Climb, where a guided ascent treating you to the most breathtaking panoramic view of Auckland. Combine this with 40m bungy jump that includes an ocean touch, and you’ll find an experience that you won’t find anywhere else. 

Where to stay

Relax with some the city’s best dining options for lunch and dinner at your doorstep with The Good Home Gastro Pub. Quality Hotel Lincoln Green also boasts beautiful west coast beaches only 30 minutes away.

Quad biking in Nelson 

Quad Biking is something all thrill-seekers need to try. Image from Cable Bay Adventure Park.

Looking for an unforgettable Quad biking thrill? Nelson in New Zealand has got you covered. Explore the stunning landscapes of the region while experiencing the thrill of off-road riding. Nelson is known for its beautiful natural scenery and diverse terrain, and Cable Bay Adventure Park helps you make the most of this ideal setting with quad biking trails through forests and farms and onto coastal scenery. And if you think that sounds good, try the park’s world-longest flying fox!

Where to stay

Relax in comfort after an invigorating day on the coastal quad bike at The Honest Lawyer, Ascend Hotel Collection. Located in a quiet area of Nelson, this boutique accommodation is home to an English Country Pub & Hotel with old-world charm and rooms, including suites, twin rooms, apartments and king-size rooms 

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