Wanaka: Tandem Paragliding Experience

If you’re looking for a truly exhilarating way to see Wanaka’s breathtaking scenery, this tandem paragliding tour from Treble Cone is hard to beat. For $193 per person and lasting about an hour, you’ll glide through the sky with a certified pilot, taking in views of Mt. Aspiring, Lake Wanaka, and the iconic Twin Waterfalls. From the moment we meet the friendly team at the landing field, there’s a sense of anticipation — and for good reason.

Two things we love about this experience are the quality of the views and the professionalism of the pilots. The panoramic vistas of the Southern Alps, the lakes, and the waterfalls are truly unforgettable, especially from high above. Plus, the pilots go the extra mile to make sure everyone feels safe and comfortable, tailoring each flight to your comfort level — whether you prefer a gentle glide or a more thrilling roller-coaster ride.

A potential consideration is that the meeting point is at the bottom of the mountain, not up at Treble Cone itself, so you’ll need to drive from Wanaka along a scenic sealed road to reach the launch site. Also, the maximum weight limit is 110 kilos, and children under 8 are not permitted, so this experience suits most adults and older kids but not the very young or the very heavy.

This tour is perfect for adventure seekers who love scenic landscapes, first-timers curious about paragliding, or anyone wanting a unique perspective of Wanaka’s stunning environment. If you’re after a memorable, well-organized adventure with excellent value, this is likely to satisfy your craving for both thrill and natural beauty.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: Get a bird’s-eye perspective of the Southern Alps, Lake Wanaka, and Twin Waterfalls.
• Professional Guides: Certified pilots ensure safety with friendly, clear instructions.
• Flexible Experience: Choose between a smooth glide or a more dynamic ‘roller-coaster’ ride.
• Convenient Meeting Spot: Located just 70 meters after the Treble Cone gate, accessible by car.
• Good Value: The flight duration (10-20 minutes) packs a punch for the price.
• Optional Photos: Capture the moment for $80, transferred directly to your device.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Detailed Experience: What to Expect from Start to Finish

We loved the way this tour balances adventure with comfort. After booking, you’ll meet your pilot at the designated landing field, which is at the start of the Treble Cone ski road. The location is easy to find by searching “Wanaka Paragliding” on Google Maps — look for banners and a black star tent at the first corner about 70 meters past the Treble Cone gate. The drive from Wanaka is scenic and manageable, about 20 kilometers along Mount Aspiring Road, which winds through lush landscapes and offers its own visual feast.

Once you arrive, expect a warm welcome and a quick check-in. The team is small but passionate, which makes for a relaxed atmosphere. Your pilot will give a concise safety briefing, fit you into a harness and helmet, and answer any last-minute questions. The process is straightforward, and most mention feeling reassured by the professionalism and friendliness of the crew.

From there, a short ten-minute shuttle ride takes you uphill to the launch point on ‘Pub Corner’. The ride itself offers more stunning views and builds anticipation. When you arrive, your pilot will run through a few final safety checks and explain what to expect during your flight.

The actual glide begins with a few steps, and suddenly you’re airborne, soaring above the landscape. As you enjoy the panoramic vistas, your pilot may ask if you’d like to try some tricks or keep it calm — the choice is yours. Many reviews highlight how safe and fun the experience feels, even for first-timers or those with slight nerves. The breathtaking views of Mt. Aspiring, the lakes, and waterfalls are the real stars of the show.

The flight typically lasts between 10 and 20 minutes, giving ample time to soak in the scenery and take photos if you’ve purchased the optional package. Some reviews note they could have stayed up there longer, as the experience is so enjoyable. The gentle glide concludes with an easy landing back at the original field, where the team is ready with warm smiles and possibly some funny stories to share.

A notable feature of this experience is the personalized attention. The pilots are known for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to tailor the flight to your comfort level. This focus on customer care makes the adventure accessible even for those who might feel nervous.

The optional photo and video package for $80 is a great way to remember your time in the skies. As multiple reviewers have pointed out, having professional shots capturing the scenic flight really enhances the keepsake value.

The Value of This Wanaka Paragliding Experience

When considering the $193 price, it’s important to recognize what’s included: a certified pilot, a roughly 15-minute flight, transport to the launch site, and the chance to see some of Wanaka’s most iconic sights from a perspective that few get. Many travelers find that the quality of the scenery combined with the professionalism of the guides justifies the cost, especially since it offers an experience that is both adventurous and accessible.

The small group size (limited to 5 participants) ensures a more personalized, less rushed experience. Plus, the flexibility in choosing the flight style — from smooth to more dynamic — enhances the value for different types of thrill-seekers or serenity lovers.

The additional photo/video option is highly recommended for those wanting to share or relive the moment, and many reviewers praise the photo quality and timely delivery to their phones.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This paragliding experience is ideal if you’re looking for an authentic, adrenaline-pumping adventure with guaranteed stunning vistas. It’s perfect for first-time flyers, couples, or solo travelers eager to add a unique highlight to their Wanaka trip. Families with older children (over age 8) who enjoy outdoor activities will find it both exciting and safe, thanks to the careful guidance of experienced pilots.

If you’re someone who appreciates professionalism combined with nature’s beauty, and you enjoy the idea of seeing Wanaka from above without the hassle of technical equipment or lengthy training, this is a top choice. It’s also a solid option if you want a memorable experience that fits comfortably into a half or full-day itinerary.

The Sum Up

The Wanaka tandem paragliding tour offers an exceptional combination of adventure, breathtaking scenery, and expert guidance. It provides a perspective on Wanaka’s stunning landscape that’s hard to match, whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply looking to see the area from a quieter, more peaceful vantage point.

You’ll love the professional pilots and the scenic views that create a safe, fun, and memorable experience. The small group setting and flexible flight styles make it suitable for both nervous beginners and those craving a bit more thrill.

While the drive to the launch site is a quick consideration, it’s a small price to pay for such remarkable views and the feeling of flying with the birds. It’s a great choice for anyone wanting a genuine bucket-list experience in Wanaka — one that will surely leave you with a big smile and stories to tell.

More Great Tours Nearby

FAQs

• What is the price of the paragliding experience?
  It costs $193 per person, which includes the flight, transport to the launch site, and guidance from a certified pilot.

• How long is the flight?
  The tandem flight lasts between 10 and 20 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery.

• Where do we meet for the tour?
  Meet at the landing field at the start of the Treble Cone ski-road, about 70 meters past the Treble Cone gate, easily accessible by car.

• Is transportation provided?
  Yes, a courtesy shuttle will take you from the meeting point up to the launch location on ‘Pub Corner’.

• Are there any age or weight restrictions?
  Children under 8 are not suitable, and the maximum weight limit is 110 kilos.

• Can I buy photos or videos of my flight?
  Yes, for $80, you can purchase a package of photos and videos transferred directly to your smartphone.

• What should I wear?
  Dress comfortably for the weather — outdoor layers are recommended, as you’ll be outside during the flight.

• Is this experience suitable for nervous flyers?
  Absolutely. The guides are professional and friendly, and the safety briefing makes the process straightforward.

• Can I choose the style of my flight?
  Yes, pilots will ask if you prefer a smooth, scenic glide or a more thrilling ‘roller-coaster’ experience — your choice.

• What if I need to cancel?
  Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled flight, allowing for peace of mind.

This Wanaka paragliding tour balances adventure and scenic beauty perfectly. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush or a peaceful flight over some of New Zealand’s most stunning landscapes, it offers a well-organized, memorable experience that rewards your effort with extraordinary views and joyful memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: