West Coast Adrenaline Activities

Adrenaline on the West Coast means one of two things: freefall over Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier, or a jet boat run into remote back country. Our West Coast adrenaline activities cover tandem skydiving at four different altitudes and jet boating on the Waiatoto River.

Tandem Skydiving Over the Glaciers

The Tandem Skydive over Franz Josef and Fox Glacier at 10,000ft is the entry point altitude, the 13,000ft option adds extra freefall time, and the 16,500ft jump pushes higher again. For the longest freefall on the Coast, the Skydive Franz Josef 18,000ft Kea Jump puts both glaciers below your feet from the highest altitude on offer.

Jet Boating the Waiatoto River

The Waiatoto River Jet Boat and Forest Walk Adventure runs into a remote back country river inside the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Area, a different kind of adrenaline hit that trades altitude for speed and isolation.

More Ways to Get Your Adrenaline Fix

For adrenaline on the ice itself, the wider West Coast tours range covers glacier heli hikes and heli ice climbing on Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier, both easy additions to a skydiving or jet boating day.

Why Book Your West Coast Adrenaline Activity with Everything New Zealand

We are your local travel partner across the West Coast, not the operator, so we only list adrenaline activities we would genuinely recommend to family and friends. Compare skydiving altitudes and jet boating side by side, book online in a few minutes and get instant confirmation. Less scrolling, more strolling, straight into freefall.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the highest skydiving altitude available on the West Coast? The Skydive Franz Josef 18,000ft Kea Jump is the highest option, giving the longest freefall over both glaciers.

What is the difference between the 10,000ft, 13,000ft and 16,500ft skydives? Each altitude increase adds more freefall time before the parachute opens, with the same views over Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier throughout.

Is jet boating on the Waiatoto River suitable for beginners? Yes, no experience is required, with experienced drivers running the Waiatoto River Jet Boat and Forest Walk Adventure for all skill levels.

Can I combine skydiving with a glacier heli hike on the West Coast? Yes, many visitors pair a tandem skydive with a glacier heli hike or heli ice climb from the wider West Coast tours range.

How long does the Waiatoto River Jet Boat and Forest Walk Adventure take? The tour runs for three hours, combining the jet boat ride with a forest walk section.