Booking choice: The NZONE Queenstown skydive, from $217 per person. Check dates Compare the options below
A tandem skydive is built for first-timers: you are harnessed to a Tandem Master who handles the exit, the parachute and the landing. Your job is to listen to the briefing, keep your head up and breathe.
Here is everything first-timers ask, from NZONE's own FAQ and recent reviews.
The quick answer
Wear warm layers and flat closed shoes that tie up; NZONE gives you a jumpsuit, hat, goggles and gloves. You must be 6 or older, weigh at least 40 kg and be at least 1.2 m tall; anyone 95 kg or over is assessed on the day. Tell the team about recent injuries, heart conditions or epilepsy before you book. Leave cameras behind.
What should you wear for a skydive?
Warm, comfortable layers and flat, closed shoes that tie up and will not fall off.
It is colder at altitude. NZONE suggests several layers rather than one big jacket in winter. Leave scarves, jewellery and anything loose in the lockers.
Ready for your first jump? Check dates for the NZONE skydive.
Check dates for the NZONE Queenstown skydiveWhat equipment is provided?
A jumpsuit, hat, goggles and gloves, plus the harness and parachute system.
If you wear glasses, the goggles fit over them. Contact lenses are fine; bring solution in case your eyes dry out.
What are the age, weight and height rules?
Minimum age 6, minimum weight 40 kg (88 lb), minimum height 1.2 m, and no upper age limit.
Children 12 and under can only jump from 9,000 ft and are assessed on the day, and under-18s need written consent from a parent or guardian. Anyone 95 kg or over is assessed by the Tandem Master at the drop zone. NZONE has jumped passengers up to 94, and one 83-year-old reviewer made their first jump there.
Can you skydive with a medical condition?
Tell the operator before booking: recent injuries, surgery, epilepsy, high blood pressure or heart conditions may need a doctor's clearance.
The listing does not recommend skydiving with back problems, heart problems or during pregnancy. A cold or blocked sinuses on the day can also cause problems, so say so at check-in.
What happens on the day?
Check-in in town, a video briefing, the coach to the drop zone, gearing up, the flight, the jump and the ride back.
- Check in at 35 Shotover Street and answer the medical questions
- Watch the briefing video and choose a photo pack
- Ride about 20 minutes to the drop zone
- Meet your Tandem Master and gear up
- Fly 15 to 20 minutes to altitude
- Freefall, then a few minutes under the parachute
All in about 3.5 hours: check-in, coach, jump and back to town.
Explore the NZONE Queenstown skydiveHow do you deal with nerves?
Trust your Tandem Master, breathe, and tell the team about any worries at check-in.
Reviewers repeatedly say the staff calmed their nerves: "keep calm and trust the instructor", as one put it. If you are prone to motion sickness, tell the team; one guest felt dizzy from the turns in freefall, and sick bags are available.
Is tandem skydiving safe?
It carries real risk, which the operator spells out, but every tandem rig carries a main and a reserve parachute, and the staff are trained for it.
NZONE describes specially trained parachute packers, an on-site Chief Safety Officer and a rigorous equipment replacement programme. Every jumper signs a risk warning: parachuting is inherently dangerous, and you take part at your own risk.
Can someone come and watch?
Yes: one spectator per jumper can ride the bus for free if there is space, except on the last trip of the day.
Spectators can also drive to the drop zone, which has a viewing area where you can watch jumpers land.
Bringing a friend to watch? Book your jump and ask about a spectator seat at check-in.
Check dates for the NZONE Queenstown skydiveFrequently asked questions
Do I need training for a tandem skydive?
No. The briefing before the jump covers everything; the Tandem Master does the flying.
Can I wear my glasses?
Yes. The goggles fit over prescription glasses.
Can I take my GoPro?
No. Cameras, GoPros and smart glasses are not allowed on the jump; buy a photo pack instead.
Is there an upper age limit?
No. NZONE has taken passengers up to 94 years old.
Ready to book
Choose your jump
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before on every option. Prices are from-prices in USD and move with the season.
NZONE Skydive Queenstown: 9,000 to 15,000 ft
- Tandem skydive with a jumpmaster from 9,000, 12,000 or 15,000 ft
- Safety briefing and all equipment: jumpsuit, goggles, hat and gloves
- Courtesy coach from 35 Shotover Street to the drop zone and back
Skydive Wanaka with Queenstown Transfer
- Tandem skydive with a certified Tandem Master
- Safety briefing and all safety equipment
- Optional shuttle from the Wanaka i-SITE, or return transfer from Queenstown (select that option)
Coronet Peak Tandem Paragliding
The views from the air without the freefall
