New Zealand has long been on the fantasy itinerary of many an office-bound worker dreaming of escaping their daily hell. From its lush and varied scenery, to laid-back cool cities like Wellington and Auckland, its a country that evokes a lot of feeling and imagery despite its rather remote location in the South Pacific.
In terms of crazy things to do, especially in terms of unforgettable travel experiences, it’s got a whole heap of things to offer too. Just take a look at the following eight ideas as proof.
Surfing a River
While neighbouring Australia might be famous for its ocean surfing, New Zealand has a more in-land take on the sport in places like Queenstown’s Kawarau River. The location of Roaring Meg, you can surf the 6km long rapids here on a body board for an adrenalin kick like no other.
Skydiving
Jumping out of a plane at a dizzying height is a surprisingly popular activity to undertake in New Zealand, especially in locations like Bay of Islands, where you can catch a glimpse of the country’s largest lake, Lake Taupo. Other popular skydiving spots include Queensland and Wanaka, the previous offering views over the southern alps and some of its spectacular glaciers.
Queenstown’s Shotover Jet
As one of the most popular backpacker destination’s in the world Queenstown has no shortage of crazy things for travellers to see and experience. Shotover Jet, a boat ride that zooms through the canyons of Shotover River, is definitely one of those things to try out. Moving at speeds up to 85km/hr, you'll be packed in tight with other riders as you roar through more of the country’s geographical wonder.
Canyoning
Thanks to its rocky geography, New Zealand is prime terrain for climbers, abseilers and trekkers looking to combing their favourite outdoor pursuits with swimming, zip lining and hikes through jungle and forest canopies. Day tours departing from Auckland are popular options to explore and can take you straight to the heart of the action.
Waitomo Caves
This cave system on New Zealand’s north island is famous as the home of the Glow Worm as well as being a hugely popular adventure playground for travellers of all shapes and sizes. As for some of the activities you can enjoy at Waitomo Caves? Abseiling, tubing, hiking and swimming. Plenty to keep you busy and stimulated.
Agroventures Adventure Park
Situated in Rotorua, Agroventures is an adventure hub with a difference. From offering human powered racing pod riding, to skydiving, to many other activities, Agroventures Adventure Park has plenty to keep adults and kids busy. Especially if they like blood-pumping activities.
Snowboarding and Skiing
If white water rafting, bungee jumping and caving doesn’t take your fancy, New Zealand also has opportunities for skiing and snowboarding too. With Wanaka and Queenstown being popular bases for both, the snowy peaks on the north islands also have several resorts open for keen downhill boarders and skiers too.
Hanggliding
New Zealand also offers you plenty of opportunities to see it from the sky down, thanks to activities like hanggliding which can have you strapped to a tandem flying while you take in the scenery below. Queenstown is one of the more popular spots to try this, as the many surrounding mountains make for great starting points.
This article was written by William L. originally published on www.etravelblog.com. Read the original here.
*Image of Queenstown parachute via Shutterstock
*Image of snowboarder jumps in air with blue sky background via Shutterstock
