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Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 03 June, 2023
Expert travel writer: Mark Chipperfield

If you’re ever going to skydive, this must surely rank as the place to do it. Muster the courage to jump out of the plane (if not you’ll be ‘encouraged’ to by your instructor) and be rewarded with a spell-binding panorama of snow-capped mountains, ocean, rivers, forest and the magnificent snaking form of the Franz Josef Glacier.

You will jump amongst New Zealand’s highest mountains, the largest glaciers and picturesque blue lake and ocean views. This skydive features some of New Zealand’s most iconic scenery.

You can choose tandem jumps between 10,000 feet and 20,000 feet, with varying periods of heart-stopping freefall (30s-85s).

Price from: £140
Minimum age: 13
Age suitable: 13+
When: All year around
Duration: 3 hours

Getting there & doing it

The centre is located in the Franz Josef Glacier Guide Base on Cron street.

No special training or equipment is needed – everything will be provided for you on the day. Allow 3 hours for the whole experience.

When to do it

Skydives operate all year round, seven days a week, weather permitting. If you can’t jump, they’ll happily rebook you or refund.

Our writer’s recommended tour operators to book with

Skydive Franz Josef & Fox Glacier

Skydive Franz Josef & Fox Glacier

Franz Josef, South Island, New Zealand

Friendly, long-running and government safety-approved operator of skydives over the Franz Josef and Fox glaciers, based in Franz Josef. Top quality instructors and equipment.

Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first

Westwood Lodge

Franz Josef, South Island, New Zealand

Hearty, comfortable lodge, the best around, providing a homely base from which to explore Franz Joseph glacier.

Official star rating:

Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

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