Booking choice: The NZONE Queenstown skydive, from $217 per person. Check dates Compare the options below
The three heights share the same check-in, briefing, plane and drop zone. What changes is the time between leaving the plane and the parachute opening.
Here is what you get for each step up, based on NZONE's published figures.
The quick answer
From 9,000 ft you get up to 25 seconds of freefall (NZ$379), from 12,000 ft up to 45 seconds (NZ$469) and from 15,000 ft up to 60 seconds (NZ$575). Pick 15,000 ft if you can afford it and want the full experience, 9,000 ft if you are nervous, on a tight budget or 12 or under, which is the maximum height for children.
How long is the freefall from each height?
Up to 25 seconds from 9,000 ft, up to 45 seconds from 12,000 ft and up to 60 seconds from 15,000 ft.
| Height | Freefall | Price (NZONE) | Who it suits |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9,000 ft | Up to 25 s | NZ$379 | Nervous first-timers, children 12 and under, tight budgets |
| 12,000 ft | Up to 45 s | NZ$469 | A real taste of freefall for less |
| 15,000 ft | Up to 60 s | NZ$575 | Anyone who wants the full minute |
Decided on your height? Choose it when you book the NZONE jump.
Check dates for the NZONE Queenstown skydiveHow fast do you fall?
Around 200 km/h (about 124 mph), whichever height you choose.
You reach that speed within the first seconds, so a higher jump does not mean falling faster, only for longer. Once the parachute opens, the ride down takes a few minutes.
Is 15,000 ft worth the extra money?
If the budget allows, yes: you get more than twice the freefall of 9,000 ft for NZ$196 more.
Skydive Wanaka calls 15,000 ft its most popular jump. One Queenstown reviewer's advice was simply "go big or go home" and do 15,000 ft for the longer air time, while a Wanaka jumper found 12,000 ft the perfect sweet spot. The flight up is also longer, with more time to take in the lake and the mountains.
Going for the full minute? The 15,000 ft option is on the same NZONE listing.
Explore the NZONE Queenstown skydiveIs a higher jump scarier?
Not necessarily: the exit and the freefall speed are the same at every height; only the length of the fall changes.
One Wanaka jumper wrote that the first acceleration was scary, but after reaching terminal velocity it just felt like flying. If nerves are your main worry, 9,000 ft gets you through freefall fastest.
Can children choose any height?
No: children 12 and under can only jump from 9,000 ft, and all children are assessed on the day.
The minimum age is 6, with a minimum weight of 40 kg and height of 1.2 m. See your first skydive for the other rules.
Does the height change the views?
A little: the higher flight shows you more of the Wakatipu basin and the surrounding ranges before you jump.
From any height you jump over the drop zone below the Remarkables, with Lake Wakatipu in view. The parachute ride is the slow, quiet part where most people take in the scenery.
Does height affect the photos?
Only in length: a longer freefall means more footage, and the packs cost the same at every height.
The handicam pack is NZ$220, the freefall photographer NZ$333 and both NZ$395.
Ready to choose? Book your height now; you can cancel free up to 24 hours before.
Check dates for the NZONE Queenstown skydiveFrequently asked questions
What is the most popular skydive height?
Skydive Wanaka says 15,000 ft is its most popular jump. NZONE does not publish a figure.
Can I upgrade my height on the day?
NZONE does not publish an upgrade policy; ask the team before you go.
Is 9,000 ft still a real skydive?
Yes: up to 25 seconds of freefall at around 200 km/h, then the full parachute ride.
Ready to book
Choose your jump
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before on every option. Prices are from-prices in USD and move with the season.
NZONE Skydive Queenstown: 9,000 to 15,000 ft
- Tandem skydive with a jumpmaster from 9,000, 12,000 or 15,000 ft
- Safety briefing and all equipment: jumpsuit, goggles, hat and gloves
- Courtesy coach from 35 Shotover Street to the drop zone and back
Skydive Wanaka with Queenstown Transfer
- Tandem skydive with a certified Tandem Master
- Safety briefing and all safety equipment
- Optional shuttle from the Wanaka i-SITE, or return transfer from Queenstown (select that option)
