Aquatic adrenaline rushes are a given in an island nation like New Zealand. Whether you opt to immerse yourself in the oceans, canyon gorges, lakes, cave creeks or freshwater rivers, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to getting active on the waterways.
Kayaking is incredibly popular in the summer months, and you pretty much do it just about anywhere in the country. Some of the top places people opt for include Abel Tasman National Park, Rangitoto Island and Lake Wanaka. Those in the mood for a freshwater alternative should set their sights onto the North Island Whanganui River – particularly Whanganui National Park.
For a motorised rush, try a bit of jet boating. This thrilling ride can be experienced in Auckland, Queenstown and Lake Taupo.
Rafting is another awesome experience to put on your bucket list. Add some underground exploration into the mix by opting for a black water rafting tour of Waitomo Caves, or visit Rotorua to try some white water rafting along the Kaituna River rapids and its gushing waterfall.
Ever wanted to leap off an airplane and land on a powdery ski slope? Then consider making it your mission to fly over snowy alpine ranges of Queenstown, Wanaka and New Zealand’s highest mountain, Mt Cook. If you’re Christchurch-bound, there are heli-skiing operators in the town of Methven (just a couple of hours away) that will take you on on a heart-racing trip to the Canterbury region’s iconic Mt Hutt ski field.
