One of the top destinations and the birthplace for extreme sports is New Zealand. New Zealand placed well in the 2012 Olympic Games in London by receiving six Gold medals, two Silver medals and five Bronze medals. As a country with a population of nearly four million people, natives can be seen participating in activities such as rugby or cricket. Despite the diversity of sports, New Zealand may be best known for it’s extreme sports.
White Water Rafting
White water rafting is considered one of the world’s most dangerous sports. Wearing protective gear is important as there is plenty to fear. White water rapids bump and pull the raft as everyone desperately struggles to maintain their balance. New Zealand is home to a waterfall with a seven-metre drop. A trip here will yield plenty of choices for even the toughest white water rafter.
Monorail (the Shweeb)
Agroventures Adventure Park in Rotura, New Zealand is home to the Shweeb, a monorail powered by people. A clear plastic bubble holds people pedaling bikes inside of it as they hang upside down suspended from a monorail. One person was known to pedal at 22 mph. Swinging out around corners at this speed must make the heart jump.
Skydiving
Wanaka, Queenstown and Taupo in New Zealand have been mentioned as some of the top destinations to skydive in the world. Experienced tandem instructors have jumped thousands of times and have been known to make even the most reluctant jumper feel at ease. Photo and DVDs with music are usually available on Skydive Wanaka. Anyone who dares to look around at the fantastic scenery from 16,500 feet above ground will notice its spectacular beauty.
Piloting a Stunt Plane
Learning to be a stunt pilot is possible in New Zealand. Previous experience is not required with an instructor in tow. Do figure eights, twists and loops in the sky and not just on ice skates with this uniquely exciting opportunity.
Bungee Jumping
In 1986 New Zealander A.J. Hackett took the first ever bungee jump from Auckland’s Greenhithe Bridge. Nevis Highwire in Queenstown, New Zealand boasts one of the highest bungee jumps at 134 metres above the Nevis River. Take a ride in cable car for six to reach the jumping hole then take the adrenaline rushing leap.
Canyoning
Another popular sport for extremists is canyoning. Wanaka, Nelson and Thames are some great places to get a rush. Learn to navigate cliff faces, canyons and even waterfalls while employing safe techniques over pools and smooth rock surfaces. There are wondrous thrills for the novice and expert rapeller in the forest and volcanic valley located here. A tour guide to consider is NZ South Island tours for scenic drives and fun activities along the way. The Road Trip provides a great New Zealand road trip experience and incredible tour guides.
Zorb
A unique adventure is the Zorb. The Zorb originally began in New Zealand and it can be found in Rotura. Choose a track with wet or dry options then go inside a large ball to roll down grassy tracks. For those with a sense of humor, the Zorb will provide exhiliration and laughter. The ride is safe and fun for the whole family.
For the adrenaline junkie who’s searching for something unique, they’re likely to find the ultimate adventure in New Zealand. To sit back and relax go caving on a boat ride through underground tunnels with larvae glimmer. Other popular extreme sports include diving with sharks, kayaking, caving and sledging.
