19 Adventure Sports In New Zealand That Will Make The Thrillist In You Super Happy In 2022!
Adventure sports in New Zealand is famous all over the world for providing one of the most thrilling and satisfying experiences. No wonder, the country is titled “adventure capital of the world” since it caters to all kinds of adrenaline seekers and enthusiasts! So if you’re planning a vacation to New Zealand, we would recommend you to not only seek glory in its nature but also in the amazing adventure sports there. And to help you choose the best, here’s a list of top 15 New Zealand adventure sports. These sports are for every kind of traveler- be it a beginner or a pro. To add, these adventure sports can be as challenging and as easy as one wants them to be. New Zealand can be said to be the perfect sport for adventure sports. This island has is the right place for trying all the unique spots for witnessing and experiencing some of the best experiences of adventure sports. Here are some options for adventure sports in New Zealand. Take a look!
19 Best Adventure Sports In New Zealand
Buckle up for the most enthalling activities this country has on offer! There is no dearth of adventure sports in New Zealand, which makes it nothing less than paradise on earth for adventure enthusiasts. Here is a list that justifies this for sure!
- Jet Boating
- Rafting
- Heli Skiing
- Canyoning
- Off roading
- Caving
- Zip Lining
- Zorbing
- Bungy Jumping
- Skydiving
- Kayaking
- Mountain Biking
- Horseback Riding
- Hiking
- Sailing
- Cycling
- Milford Sound Experience
- Whale Watching
- Glacier Flights
1. Jet Boating

Jet Boating is one of the most thrilling water adventure sports in New Zealand and would take you on a speedy ride through river gorges, shallow waters, past rocks, and river beds. This adventure activity is also among the popular things to do in New Zealand. The experience is refreshing as well as challenging for you because the activity will test your guts and patience. The consistent splashing of water on your face will make this activity even more exciting.
Best places to do jet boating in New Zealand: Queenstown and Canterbury, Buller and Makarora area in South Island, and Whanganui, Waikato River, and Rangitaiki rivers in North Island
Price: From $85
2. Rafing

Rafting can be both an easy and extreme adventure sport in New Zealand for the country and its rivers offer experiences that range from grade 1 to 5. If you’re into the extreme adventure, then we would recommend you rafting at the worlds highest commercially rafted waterfall in Rotorua (7m).
Best places for rafting in New Zealand: West Coast, Tongariro River, Queenstown, Christchurch, and Rotorua
Price: From $90 to $200
3. Heli Skiing

Heli Skiing is one of the most famous New Zealand extreme sports and it involves a helicopter ride. You can ride all the way to the top of a snowy remote hill from where one goes downhill skiing. The level of thrill going down is unimaginable and if you’re one of those who knows how to ski, then this experience should not be missed at any cost.
Best place to do heli skiing in New Zealand: South Island
Price: From $990 (3 day run)
4. Canyoning

If you’re looking for that perfect New Zealand adventure, then you must definitely try canyoning for it is one adventure sport that involves a perfect mix of adrenaline rush and natural beauty. Staged at remote mountain locations, you would have to trek through gorges, waterfalls, and swim through rock pools to reach your destination. It is a surreal and an up close way to experience nature in its raw form.
Best places to do canyoning in New Zealand: Remote mountain areas around Auckland, Canterbury, Coromandel, Nelson, and Wanaka
Price: Half day tour starts from $199
5. Off Roading

One of the best ways to explore New Zealand is by going on an offroad driving adventure and exploring the best of nature in a mighty SUV. Pass by rivers, forests, and even indulge a ride on the sand dunes of Ninety Mile Beach in Northland. And yes, if by chance, you don’t like the Range Rover experience, you are free to grab your own quad bike and do it your way!
Best places to go offroading in New Zealand: Ninety Mile Beach, Waikato, Marlborough, and Canterbury
Price: From $55