Top 10 Adrenaline Experiences in Queenstown

Widely regarded as the Adventure Capital of the World, Queenstown offers a line-up of adrenaline experiences unlike anywhere else. Top activities include bungy jumping, skydiving, jet boating, mountain biking, and ziplining. 

Queenstown has always been a magnet for those looking to push boundaries, making it the birthplace of many adventure activities. Step off the plane, breathe in the alpine air, and you’ll feel it. The same energy that has inspired countless others, urging you to challenge yourself.

It’s not a visit to the world’s adventure capital unless you partake in something a little scintillating. But where to start? The region offers a delectable buffet of adrenaline-pumping experiences that can be overwhelming to choose from; that’s why we’ve made it easy for you by ranking the top ten.

1. Bungy Jumping (The iconic adrenaline rush)

You’re soaring toward the turquoise Kawarau River, pulse racing, arms wide. Elated and free. In that moment, you get it. This… this is why bungy jumping became New Zealand’s most iconic adventure.

In a town built on adrenaline innovations, one of the most famous world firsts was the launch of commercial bungy jumping in 1988 at the historic Kawarau Bridge. Fast forward to today, and the jump attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors a year. 

The activity is easily accessible by car or the unmissable Live More. Fear Less Bungy Bus. With world-renowned safety standards, it’s the perfect challenge for both adrenaline junkies and hesitant first-timers alike.

So whether it’s your very first leap or you’re a seasoned thrill-seeker, bungy belongs at the top of your Queenstown adrenaline checklist.

2. Jet Boating (An action movie adventure) 

Slice through turquoise waters, race across shallow rivers, and speed between narrow canyons at 85kph. Shotover Jet is every bit as wild as it sounds. With the wind in your hair, you’ll feel like Tom Cruise or Angelina Jolie starring in your very own action film, as the boat spins and weaves past canyon walls. 

Queenstown has bragging rights here too: back in 1959, brothers Alan and Harold Melhop pioneered the world’s first commercial jet boat tour. They set the stage for decades of water-fuelled adrenaline, and today Shotover Jet remains one of Queenstown’s most iconic thrills. 

Make sure you add this activity to your list. 

3. Skydiving (Fly in the sky… or inside) 

Leap from 15,000 feet above the shimmering blue expanse of Lake Whakatipu, with the jagged Remarkables unfolding beneath you. 

This magical experience is the closest you will come to having wings. It’s free fall, just the right amount of fear, and awe-inspiring views rolled into one unforgettable adventure, only available to those willing to take the plunge. 

Since 1990, NZONE Skydive has been New Zealand’s first and only dedicated tandem skydive operator. For the boldest and bravest, this is an adventure you don’t want to miss. 

But for those wanting to spread their wings without diving straight into the deep end, iFly offers indoor skydiving. Feel the rush of free-fall as you soar inside their giant wind tunnel. It’s the ultimate skydiving experience without jumping from a plane. 

4. Self-Drive Guided Buggy Tour (It’s big… It’s bad… and it’s muddy!) 

What better way to see Queenstown’s dramatic alpine landscapes than by off-road buggy?

Just five minutes out of Queenstown, you can strap in and explore an exclusive adventure park. Expect sharp corners, splashes through creeks, and a trail of dirt in your wake. But let’s be honest, the best stories are never the clean ones!  

This hands-on adventure is built for everyone, whether you are a first-time driver or a seasoned rev head.

5. Mountain Biking (Adrenaline… but do it like a local) 

In Queenstown, mountain biking isn’t just a hobby; it’s a way of life. Riders come from all over the world to experience our trails, which are also a local favourite on weekends. 

With world-class parks and trails for every skill level, it’s an alpine playground on two wheels.

Queenstown Bike Park in Ben Lomond Reserve offers 30+ trails and 450m of vertical descent, while Cardrona and Coronet Peak bring epic mountain runs. For airtime, Wynyard Bike Park’s Dream Track and Mini Dream jump lines are must-rides. 

It’s not just about the gnarly downhill runs either. It’s about mates, muddy smiles, and that post-ride pint. Around here, mountain biking isn’t something you tick off your list; it’s a lifestyle. 

6. White Water Rafting (It’s wet and it’s wild) 

Dive headfirst into Queenstown’s alpine rivers with whitewater rafting, riverboarding… or, because we crazy kiwis are constantly pushing boundaries… heli-rafting. 

As the birthplace of New Zealand’s first commercial rafting in the 1970s, Queenstown is now a whitewater playground. 

Tackle serene stretches on the Kawarau River or froth the grade five rapids of the Shotover. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pro, there are options to suit all appetites. Whichever you choose, one thing is sure: you’ll definitely get wet and things will definitely get wild! 

7. Paragliding (Adrenaline but make it 90s froth) 

Is it a bird? Is it a plane? If you’re in Queenstown, it’s likely a paraglider. 

First introduced in 1987 when Rene Schwaller leapt off Bob’s Peak with a modified parachute, by the 1990s, hardcore paragliders were climbing up mountains and flying from them.

Paragliding has since grown into one of the region’s signature thrills. If Icarus were alive today, he’d skip the wax wings and head straight to Queenstown. With world-class safety records and expert pilots, you can spread your wings without the risk of melting in the sun. Instead, soar over mountains and lakes, and experience the pure joy of gliding in safe hands.

8. Zipriding (Thrills for the whole family) 

Glide over the sparkling Kawarau River, taking in Queenstown’s beauty from high above. Whether you’re a family with kids or a squad of mates, the Zipride will have you bolting down our 130m line at over 60km an hour. 

Our three lines are side by side, letting everyone take off from our Kawarau Bungy Centre in a hot pursuit for the finish line. The person who arrives last buys the next round of drinks. Right? 

The Zipride is a fun finish to any itinerary and the perfect complement to your bungy jump. 

So there you have it, the inside scoop on Queenstown’s adrenaline-fueled line-up. Planning your adventure itinerary? We would love to see you.

Experience the iconic Kawarau bungy jump that started a global phenomenon. You won’t just leave your holiday feeling refreshed, you’ll be renewed. 

9. Highlands Motorsport Park (Get fast and furious)

Live your Vin Diesel dreams at Highlands Motorsport Park in Cromwell, just 40 minutes from Queenstown. Strap into a supercar with a professional driver and hit speeds of up to 225 km/h, all against a backdrop of Central Otago’s dramatic landscape. Always felt you had a little Fast & Furious in you? Get behind the wheel in a “U-Drive” experience or test your skills on the go-kart track. From casual cruisers to full-blown petrol heads, there’s something to fuel every appetite. 

Now you’ve got to the end of the list, you’re probably wondering… where’s number ten?

The greatest adventures are often the ones you don’t plan, the ones you stumble upon by chance. The final spot on this adrenaline list belongs to you. Queenstown is bursting with adventures. Whether it’s bungy, sky diving, or just a big night at Bunker. Try them, push your limits, and then tell us: what’s your number ten?

Ready to start your Queenstown Adrenaline adventure? Book your Bungy 

FAQ’s

What is the most popular adrenaline activity in Queenstown?

Bungy jumping is Queenstown’s most iconic adrenaline experience; it’s where commercial bungy was born. Whether you’re leaping from the historic Kawarau Bridge or testing your limits at the Nevis, it’s the must-do thrill that defines the adventure capital of the world.

Are adrenaline activities in Queenstown safe for first-timers?

Absolutely. All major operators in Queenstown, including AJ Hackett Bungy, Shotover Jet, and NZONE Skydive, meet world-class safety standards. Whether it’s your first jump, flight, or ride, you’ll be in expert hands every step (or scream) of the way.