Hang gliding tours in the Queenstown region of New Zealand offer an unforgettable experience for adventure seekers. Two prominent operators in the area are Coronet Peak Tandem Paragliding and Hang Gliding Queenstown and Skytrek. Both companies provide tandem flights with experienced pilots, ensuring a safe and thrilling experience for their guests. Coronet Peak Tandem Paragliding and Hang Gliding Queenstown is the most experienced tandem paragliding and hang gliding company in New Zealand. They offer flights from the highest take-off point in Queenstown, Coronet Peak, which is just a 20-minute drive from the town center. The company is committed to safety, and all staff members are fully vaccinated. They also have a Covid-19 cancellation policy, offering a full refund for cancellations made 48 hours in advance due to travel restrictions. Skytrek, the other major operator, is known for being the first company to introduce tandem hang gliding in New Zealand. They provide foot-launched flights from Coronet Peak, just a 20-minute drive from Queenstown. Skytrek's team of highly experienced tandem pilots ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for their guests. They also offer a courtesy shuttle service to pick up passengers from town and drive them to the launch area.
Both operators recommend warm clothing and suitable footwear for the experience. Flight durations vary, with summer flights lasting around one and a half hours and winter flights taking up to two hours. Spectators are welcome to observe the flights, but they will need to arrange their own transportation to the launch site. Paragliding and hang gliding in Queenstown are popular activities, offering spectacular views of the Whakatipu Basin. The area has a long history of paragliding and hang gliding, with commercial operations starting in the early 1990s. Today, both activities are closely monitored by fully qualified operators with top safety records.