Top Queenstown Extreme Sports

Experience heart-racing fun on an exhilarating Queenstown jet-boat ride. The expert captain races across Lake Wakatipu, navigates tricky turns on the Kawarau River, and speeds through the shallow waters of the Shotover River. Grab hold of your seat as the jet boat makes 360-degree spins and fishtails on a rollercoaster ride over the water.

Soar through the forest on the world’s steepest tree-to-tree zipline, 1,500 feet (450 meters) above Queenstown. Choose from three different courses, one with a thrilling 68-foot (21-meter) drop. Or, tone down the adrenaline a notch on a longer course, perfect for families with kids. Expert guides supervise your launch so all you have to do is take in the panoramic mountain and lake views.

Ideal for thrill seekers, this experience lets you take a jet boat ride on the Shotover River. Experience adrenaline-fueled fun as the jet boat skims the water’s surface at high speed and fishtails into 360-degree spins. Hold on tight as the captain maneuvers the jet boat over rapids and through narrow canyons during one heart-pounding adventure you won’t soon forget.

A unique water adventure awaits you on Queenstown's stunning lake with our semi-submersible shark ride. Feel the rush as you reach speeds of 80 kph on the surface and dive under the water at 40 kph, all while enjoying a personal ride with an experienced pilot. Experience exhilarating jumps as the shark leaps out of the water, sending splashes all around. With the first commercial Seabreacher X watercraft at your disposal, you can customize your ride to be as mild or wild as you want. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind thrill while in Queenstown.

Get ready for an exhilarating jet boat ride along the stunning Kawarau River, where breathtaking landscapes meet thrilling speed. This adventure allows you to cover the greatest distance on the river, reaching speeds of up to 95km/h while enjoying iconic 360º spins. Choose between a 30-minute high-speed thrill or a 60-minute journey through New Zealand’s natural beauty, complete with expert local commentary. With plenty of opportunities for scenic photos and a blend of fun and professionalism from the skilled Thunder drivers, this is an essential Queenstown experience.

Get off the beaten path and enjoy sweeping views over Queenstown that would be otherwise difficult to find on this ATV adventure. Head to Queenstown Hill for a half-day tour on a fully automatic ATV and follow your guide over off-road trails (safety gear and all-weather clothing are provided). Enjoy informative commentary and sweeping views over Queenstown. Hotel pickup and drop-off, along with refreshments, are included in this small-group tour.

Combining two of Queenstown's most iconic activities, this trip is second to none! Starting on the Queenstown Jet Boat, you'll get to experience those famous 360 degree spins and speed. Discover the Kawarau River and its pristine wilderness as we race you down the river to your next mode of transport. Then jump straight into a raft to complete the last section of river, where the Jet Boats fear to go. Spend your morning or afternoon paddling through the historic Kawarau gorge, famous for its gold mining, wineries and it’s stint in The Lord of the Rings franchise. Paddle and swim your way through grade 2-3 whitewater rapids with a brand new cliff jumping section added for the adventure junkies (optional). Complete your journey by tackling the famous 400m Dog Leg rapid – the longest commercially rafted rapid in New Zealand. Then head back to Rafting Base for a hot shower.

Thrill-seekers in New Zealand’s ‘adventure capital’ will love free-falling over the river on the Shotover Canyon Swing. A jump instructor prepares both first-timers and seasoned daredevils to swing solo or tandem along a special rope and cable system suspended between two cliffs. You’ll swing safely in a secure harness and hear encouragement throughout your pendulum ride above the Shotover River.

Get ready for a fun-filled snow adventure at Coronet Peak, just a short ride from Queenstown! Easy Departure – Meet your shuttle at the Station Building in central Queenstown (11am, 12pm, or 1pm departures, most days). Scenic Drive – Sit back and enjoy the alpine views on the way up the mountain. Snow Play Time – Spend 1.5 hours in the snow: build a snowman, make snow angels, throw snowballs, or simply soak up the winter atmosphere. Want more fun? Rent a sled from us for just $20 (cheaper than on the mountain) or purchase a ski lift pass on-site ($39). Hassle-Free Return – After your session, hop back on the shuttle and relax on the ride back to Queenstown. This experience is family-friendly, beginner-friendly, and perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy the snow without needing ski skills.

Travel from Queenstown to the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Milford Sound on an easy day trip. Enjoy live commentary along the way, and many scenic photo stops. At Milford Sound, don’t worry about waiting in lines as tickets are included. Admire views of waterfalls and Mitre Peak from your cruise. Refuel with a tasty picnic lunch in a scenic location. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from listed locations for added convenience.

Go beyond admiring the Kawarau River from afar and get on the water with a whitewater rafting experience through its rapids. Enjoy a hassle-free day with coach transfers, a wetsuit, and all equipment included. Then set off on your rafting trip, with an optional cliff jump for those after an extra thrill.

Board the vintage TSS Earnslaw steamship or the modern Spirit of Queenstown for an evening cruise on Lake Wakatipu. Sail to Walter Peak High Country Farm for a buffet dinner featuring local meats, salads, vegetables, and desserts, then watch farm demonstrations or relax in the bar. The cruise returns to the same central Queenstown location. The TSS Earnslaw undergoes winter maintenance, when the Spirit of Queenstown is available instead.

Enjoy the ultimate alpine adventure by going on a guided snowshoeing experience in the Remarkables Mountain Range. You won’t have to worry about buying special equipment as snowshoes, walking poles, and all technical equipment is provided. You’ll have fun and hike along picturesque areas such as Jagged Edge Ridge. Going on a guided tour is a safe and enjoyable experience, as you won’t get lost and can focus on the stunning views.

Thrill seekers will enjoy this fun adventure activity combo that includes jet boating and off-roading near Queenstown. Be amazed by the speeds you’ll get to in the four-seater Jet Sprint boats, which can accelerate to 62 miles (100 kilometers) per hour in just 2.5 seconds. Follow this with a ride on land in a four-wheel-drive vehicle that can venture over the most rugged terrain.

Play single player or challenge your friends in a realistic Racecar simulator. Choose between multiple cars and tracks from around the world for an experience like no other! Use pedals and a steering wheel to help guide you to success!

Queenstown is one of the South Island’s most popular spots for those looking to take in the majestic mountainous landscapes the region is known for. Take to the skies on this small-group tandem hang-gliding experience, launching from Coronet Peak to soar above the forests, lakes, and mountains surrounding the town. Pickup and drop-off from central Queenstown mean you don’t need to drive to Coronet Peak.

While in Central Otago, head to the Oxbow Gun Club in the Gibbston Valley for a bit of fun. Enjoy one-on-one guidance in clay bird shooting from an experienced instructor. Take your friends for some healthy competition and experience the natural beauty of New Zealand’s magnificent mountainous backdrop at the same time. This activity facilitates six shooters per session, so is an excellent group activity suitable for ages 13 and up.

Set off on a thrilling jet boat ride through the breathtaking Kawarau River, where speed meets stunning landscapes. With Thunder Jet Queenstown, you can choose a 30-minute high-speed adventure or a 60-minute journey covering 47 km, packed with 360° spins and insightful local commentary. Take in the untouched wilderness and historic gold-mining sites as you power down the river at exhilarating speeds of up to 95 km/h. This action-packed experience is a true Kiwi must-do, perfect for families and adrenaline seekers alike.

Experience the best view in town. Land on the Remarkables spur, overlooking Queenstown at sunset! This flight includes a complimentary drink of choice which you can enjoy during your landing whilst watching the sunset over Queenstown Drink options: bubbles, beer, whisky or there are non-alcoholic options available

Get unrivaled views of Queenstown from 5,000 feet (1,524 meters) in the air during a 25-minute helicopter tour. Look down upon vast Lake Wakatipu and make an Alpine landing in the Remarkables Range, with Coronet Peak and Cecil Peak in the distance. Enjoy sensational photo opportunities from the flight and the landing. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included and save you time and hassle.

Take in aerial views of Queenstown that you can’t get any other way on a thrilling tandem paragliding flight. Start with a safety briefing before harnessing up with an instructor who will take the lead. Launch from Coronet Peak, the ideal place from which to enjoy views over the Wakatipu Valley, lakes, mountains, and beyond.

Be introduced to one of New Zealand’s Great Walks without having to do the whole thing on a morning or afternoon guided hike on a portion of the Routeburn Track. After a pickup from central Queenstown, head into the mountains of Mt. Aspiring National Park. Follow your guide at a relaxed pace through lush forests and experience the tranquility of the Routeburn River and its waterfalls along the way.

Get access to Queenstown’s most spectacular scenery during an off-road self-drive buggy tour. Follow an expert guide along backcountry terrain—through steep climbs, creek crossings, and forest tracks—with stunning views of Queenstown and beyond. Experience the thrill of driving your own 4-seater 4WD vehicle while you rip up the trails! Helmet, gloves, and wet-weather gear are included with a roll cage and seat belts to ensure your safety.