The Most Extreme Summer Sports Activities in New Zealand

New Zealand is not only known for its unbeatable rugby teams and equally-impressive cricket test squads, it is also blessed with the most amazing extreme sport spots in the world. In fact, most Kiwis love participating in adrenaline-packed adventure activities like skydiving, bungee jumping, and water rafting. Ever since A.J. Hackett made that amazing stunt at the Eiffel Tower in June 1987, the extreme sport he helped popularised - bungee jumping - became the country’s calling card as the home of extreme sports.

However, the growth of popularity of extreme sports in the country can be attributed to an even earlier event - the establishment of the Accident Compensation Commission in 1974. It protected both locals and tourists alike from risk brought about accidental injuries and deaths. With safety regulations and standards in place, many tour operators and sports event providers are more likely to create riskier and even more extreme sports activities as they are no longer worried about potential lawsuits anymore.

Here are the most extreme summer sports activities in no particular order:

1. Bungee Jumping

Although originated in the South Pacific centuries earlier, it was popularised 35 years ago when A.J. Hackett tried to recreate that ritual practice on a Queensland bridge. It has become a popular extreme activity that a lot of people soon followed his jump on various viaducts, stadiums, towers, and other custom bungy platforms all over the world.

You may want to try the original Kawarau Bungy site but there are a lot of tour operators who try to one-up over their competitors with higher-and-higher and even more over-the-top jumps. The so-called Nevis ‘plunge’ is currently the country’s highest jump at 134 metres. The question is - are you ready to take that plunge?

2. White and Black Water Rafting

Whenever you go on extreme New Zealand getaways, you probably need to keep yourself nourished with a handy Fresh Box Carre Stackable on hand and hydrated with your Porter Green Insulated Stainless Steel Bottle at all times as it takes a lot of your energy and adrenaline to keep you going. As the country is known for its vast water reserves, you can enjoy white water rafting in Auckland or Rotorua or try black water rafting at the spectacular caves at Waitomo on the North Island.

3. Skydiving

If you love the sweeping panoramic view of the beautiful landscape of the country then the best thing you can do is to jump off the airplane and slowly skydive safely back to the ground. You will be able to witness the rich diversity of the whole New Zealand landscape from the majestic snow-capped mountains to the awe-inspiring jagged coastlines.

4. Jet Boating

Feel the need for speed? Crank up the accelerator as you tear up the waves on a jet boat in the rivers and lakes from the North and South Islands. It will be an exhilarating ride that you will never forget. Don’t mind the splash of salty water to your face, just male sure you hold onto your seats and have your life vest on.

5. Scuba Diving

Want to go even deeper? Give the Poor Knights Islands marine reserve a go as famous French explorer Jacques Cousteau describes it as one of the best dive sites in the world. Marvel at the beautiful flora and fauna in this underwater paradise.

6. Mountain Biking

One of the best summer sports you may want to try is mountain biking. Not only are you discovering new scenic spots, you are also going beyond the extra mile in your biking adventure through the beautiful cycling trails as you cut through the country’s picturesque landscape. While you’re at it, keep your skin protected from the sun and the elements with a Smith & Co Hand and Body Lotion in your pocket when you need it.

7. Kayaking / Canoeing

You don’t have to be a professional athlete to enjoy kayaking or canoeing. You just have to enjoy the basics by learning to paddle and mastering your sense of direction. Visit the Abel Tasman National Park, the Marlborough Sounds, and the imposing fjords to get you started. Once you get your bearings straight then you’re off to explore even more amazing spots along the way.

8. Rock Climbing

For rock climbing enthusiasts, there are many great spots you can get your hands on like Lake Taupo, Castle Hill Basin, and Fjord Islands. If you’re looking for the ultimate challenge, the Southern Alps with its over 3,000-feet mountains awaits. If you’re looking for summer sporting events, there are many rock climbing competitions that will get your adrenaline flowing

Final Thoughts

These are some of the most extreme summer sports activities and pretty sure, there are a lot more New Zealand sports events in store for you this 2023. With its bountiful natural beauty, amazing landscapes, and fun-loving people, there are endless possibilities to where your lust for adventure will bring you.

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