Franz Josef: 13,000ft, 16,500ft or 18,000ft Skydive

Jumping out of a plane in a place as spectacular as Franz Josef is the kind of adventure that leaves a lasting impression. While we haven’t personally strapped ourselves into the harness, this skydiving experience promises an adrenaline rush combined with unforgettable scenery—all with professional instructors guiding every step. If you’re craving an authentic thrill in New Zealand’s South Island, this tour is worth considering.

What we love about this experience is how accessible it is for first-timers, thanks to the tandem format, and how the views of mountains, glaciers, and rainforests make the leap truly special. On the flip side, the weather dependency means you should keep your plans flexible. This experience suits those who love adventure, are comfortable with heights, and want to tick an iconic activity off their bucket list with safety and expertise at the forefront.

Key Points

• Multiple height options: Choose from 13,000, 16,500, or 18,000 feet, each providing different free-fall durations.
• Breathtaking scenery: Expect views of dramatic mountains, glaciers, and lush temperate rainforest.
• Professional guidance: Experienced instructors ensure safety and a fun, confident experience.
• Flexible booking: Book now and pay later, with full cancellation options up to 24 hours in advance.
• Ideal for first-timers: Tandem jumps make it approachable even for those new to skydiving.
• Authentic local adventure: It’s a quintessential New Zealand adrenaline activity with authentic landscape views.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Skydiving Experience

The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Your adventure starts at the drop zone in Franz Josef, a place that’s easy to reach and well-organized. Upon arrival, you’ll meet your experienced tandem instructor, who will walk you through a clear safety briefing. This part is key for calming nerves and making sure everyone understands what’s about to happen.

The actual jump begins with getting geared up, which includes a safety harness, helmet, and goggles. Don’t worry—all equipment is provided and inspected before your jump. If you’re lucky, you’ll be paired with a friendly, knowledgeable instructor who’s been through the ropes many times over, making you feel confident in their skill.

You can choose to jump from 13,000 feet, 16,500 feet, or 18,000 feet, depending on your thrill appetite and timing. Keep in mind that the free-fall lasts approximately 45, 65, or 85 seconds, respectively. This means you’ll experience the sensation of falling at speeds that give you a real adrenaline rush, all while soaking in stunning views of the surrounding glaciers, mountains, and rainforest.

The Flight and Free-Fall

The flight to altitude is part of the fun—climbing in the small aircraft offers a chance to take in the scenery and chat with your instructor. We loved the way the landscape unfolds beneath you, with glaciers shimmering and peaks piercing the sky, making the wait for the leap just as memorable as the fall itself.

Once at your chosen height, you’ll shuffle to the open door, and then—the world turns upside down. The free-fall is over before you know it, but it’s intense and exhilarating. You’ll be flying a parachute for the descent, which can last 4 to 6 minutes, giving you ample time to soak in the panoramic views and even catch your breath after the rush.

The Landing

The landing happens about 300 feet above sea level—an experience that’s smoother than many expect, thanks to your instructor’s skill. Many reviews highlight how safe and well-managed the process feels, even for first-timers. The entire experience, from check-in to landing, lasts around 3 hours, including time for safety briefings, gear-up, the flight, and post-jump photos.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

For $238 per person, you get a professional tandem skydive, a safety briefing, an experienced instructor, and all necessary equipment. There’s no need to bring your own gear or worry about safety—everything is prepared for you. Food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly if you want to celebrate your leap afterward.

Considerations and Tips

Weather is a major factor—if conditions aren’t right, your jump will be rescheduled or canceled with a full refund. It’s wise to book your first available day and keep an alternative free, especially since bad weather can be common in mountain regions.

If you’re under 18, parental consent is required, and for those over 100 kilograms, surcharges might apply. It’s also worth noting that drones and selfie sticks are not permitted near the jump zone for safety reasons.

Why Travelers Love It

From authentic reviews, many first-time skydivers describe feeling completely safe and well looked after. One reviewer noted, “Everyone that works there is so kind and fun. We had the best time and can’t wait to do it again!” Another shared, “The views above the clouds were just insane,” illustrating how breathtaking the scenery is from above.

Travelers also appreciate the professionalism of the staff, with comments like, “All staff did an awesome job,” and “They made me feel safe and calm, even though I was nervous.” The combination of stunning vistas and caring, competent guides makes this experience stand out.

The Value of a Skydive at Franz Josef

At $238, this experience offers excellent value considering the full safety briefing, expert instruction, all equipment, and the sheer thrill of jumping from the highest available altitude in the area. It’s an investment in a lifetime memory, and the reviews suggest it’s worth every penny. For many, the cost is justified by the unmatched scenery and adrenaline—plus, they often say it’s the highlight of their trip.

The Experience’s Best Fit

This tour is perfect for those wanting a once-in-a-lifetime thrill in a stunning setting. It’s especially suitable for first-timers, thrill-seekers, and anyone eager to see Franz Josef from a whole new perspective. It’s also a solid choice if you’re looking for a high-value experience that combines adventure with jaw-dropping scenery.

The Sum Up

Jumping out of a plane over Franz Josef isn’t for everyone, but for those who crave adventure and spectacular views, it’s hard to beat. The combination of professional guides, safe procedures, and unforgettable landscapes make this a standout activity in New Zealand’s South Island.

If you’re comfortable with heights and looking for a genuinely exciting experience, this skydive will give you stories to tell for years. The views of glaciers, mountains, and rainforest are truly breathtaking—an adventure that combines pure adrenaline with the raw beauty of New Zealand.

For travelers seeking a high-quality, authentic activity with a strong safety record, this skydiving experience is a smart choice. It balances thrilling moments with peaceful, panoramic views, making it a memorable highlight of any South Island trip.

FAQ

How high can I jump?
You can choose from 13,000 feet, 16,500 feet, or 18,000 feet, each offering different free-fall durations and views.

Is this suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tandem jump format makes it accessible for first-timers, with experienced instructors guiding every step.

How long does the entire experience take?
The full experience lasts about 3 hours, including safety briefings, gear-up, the flight, and the jump.

What is included in the price?
Your package includes the skydive, safety briefing, instructor, and all equipment. Food and drinks are optional and not included.

What if the weather is bad?
Skydiving is weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t favorable on your booked day, you’ll be rescheduled or refunded if no alternative date works.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Participants over 100 kilograms may incur surcharges. All participants are subject to assessment at the drop zone.

Can I bring my own camera or drone?
No, drones and selfie sticks are not allowed near the jump zone for safety reasons.

Through carefully balanced safety, stunning scenery, and genuine professionalism, this skydiving adventure in Franz Josef offers something truly special. For those ready for a leap of faith, it’s a chance to see New Zealand’s wild beauty from the most exhilarating perspective.

You can check availability for your dates here: