Taupo Tandem Skydiving — Attraction in North Island

I was encouraged to give Taupo Tandem Skydiving a go by my husband, who’d done it here years ago and loved it… it’s a bit unlike me to say yes to jumping out of a plane, but honestly, the reviews on Google and TripAdvisor completely sold me, so I’ll try my best to add to the list of rave reviews. As it was my first, I booked onto the 12k foot jump, as this felt like a good starter height, and was soon assigned to a group and paired with the ABSOLUTE GEM that is Hamish Funnel. His instant sense of humour and friendliness (among his obvious knowledge and pure skill) put me at ease straightaway and we were soon headed onto the plane where we’d be jumping first (because most others had chosen 15k or 18.5k feet - no pressure!). The harness and parachute was double and triple checked before boarding which helped keep my anxiety at bay. Hamish then explained everything to me on the way up and even pointed out areas of interest as we flew above the gorgeous Lake Taupo. He was so lovely and gentle as he fitted our harnesses together as well as fitting my cap and goggles, there was a clear appreciation for my comfort. I am so grateful to him for letting me know just before it was time to go, that most people feel a bit overwhelmed as the door opens and that unlike in the movies, you don’t get sucked out of a plane… he also suggested I shout a big “woohoo” after jumping so to relax my breathing, and these were such useful tips that I was really grateful for as I knew exactly what to anticipate. The jump itself was easier than I hoped as you can just relax and let them lead - it was a feeling and experience that is hard to put into words — it’s absolutely exhilarating and just out of this world. I urge anyone who’s considering jumping, to give this a go. The free-fall was amazing and incredibly liberating - it’s definitely not as scary as I thought it might be and I was actually a bit sad that it was over so quickly, and so now, I can really appreciate why 15 and 18.5k feet appeal to people! Once the shoot opened, Hamish ensured I was comfortable again, by loosening the harness to allow me to have a more comfortable seated position and he even let me take the straps and spin us down, which was way more fun than I’d ever expected. I spent the rest of the day absolutely buzzing, completely on cloud nine, and in complete awe of the crew who get to do this for a living. What an experience. If you’re on the fence, I say, go for it, you really won’t regret it. These guys live and breathe skydiving and truly care about your safety, comfort, and giving you a wonderful experience from start to finish. A huge thanks to the wonderful Hamish for absolutely nailing every detail and for giving me such an...

Recently, we celebrated our 15th love anniversary with Taupo Tandem Skydiving in New Zealand.

It was a truly thrilling experience unlike any other. From the anticipation leading up to the jump to the euphoric feeling of freefall, every moment was exhilarating.

The team was incredibly professional. Our instructors SamualParker and G Hemingway made sure we understood every step of the process, from suiting up to body positioning during the freefall and landing. Their confidence and clarity were reassuring, making us feel safe and well-prepared.

Once we were up in the plane, the excitement hit an all-time high. The moment the door opened and I looked out at the landscape below, my heart started racing. The sensation of jumping out of a plane, plummeting toward the Earth at incredible speeds, is hard to put into words—it’s a blend of adrenaline, awe, and total freedom.

The freefall lasted only around 60 seconds but felt much longer in the best way possible. The rush of wind, the speed, and the surreal feeling of floating in midair gave me a pure sense of freedom. It was such a unique experience—nothing compares to the adrenaline surge during this moment.

After the parachute deployed, the rush slowed down into a peaceful glide. We floated gently above the landscape, taking in breathtaking views. The landing was smoother than expected, with the instructor guiding us down to a gentle touchdown. Skydiving is one of those life-defining experiences that everyone should try at least once. It's an adrenaline-packed activity that leaves you with a sense of accomplishment and exhilaration. I’d absolutely do it again!

Thank you so much to the entire team of Taupo Tandem Skydiving for making our 15th Anniversary very special.

Regards Sanjith Cherian Edakkattu & Celin...

I had the most incredible skydiving experience in New Zealand's Taupo Lake, all thanks to my amazing instructor Adam Wilson. Adam did an exceptional job ensuring my safety and making sure I had the time of my life. From start to finish, he displayed professionalism, expertise, and a genuine passion for what he does.

The thrill of skydiving was amplified by Adam's guidance and support. He made me feel completely at ease throughout the entire process, and his attention to detail was remarkable. Not only did he prioritize safety, but he also went above and beyond to provide me with the best view of Taupo Lake. The breathtaking scenery I witnessed during the jump is something I will cherish forever.

Adam's enthusiasm and knowledge were truly inspiring. His clear instructions and encouragement helped me conquer any fears I had, and he created an environment that was both exhilarating and enjoyable. I cannot thank him enough for his exceptional skills and dedication.

If you're looking for an unforgettable skydiving experience, I wholeheartedly recommend Adam Wilson as your instructor. He is a true professional who goes the extra mile to ensure his students have the time of their lives. Thank you, Adam, for an adventure I will...