The ultimate guide to ziplining in New Zealand

Discover all of the best ziplining courses in New Zealand. From short tracks (which are the perfect introduction to ziplining), to challenging ones (complete with high-ropes elements), we cover them all off.

If you’re an adventure seeker then you’ve undoubtedly been on a zipline before. Even if you like your adventure a little on the softer side, you’ll find ziplining to be well within reach.

Going down a zipline is enough to get anyone’s adrenaline pumping. Plus, you’ll often be rewarded with stunning views along the way, whilst being surrounded by native birds too. A zipline course really is the ultimate eco-adventure.

Fortunately, New Zealand is a country with tonnes of epic zip lines, and they’re found up and down the country.

But how do you decide which ones are for you? Don’t worry, we’re here to show you the best options!

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The Top Places for Ziplining in New Zealand

Depending on where you’re visiting in New Zealand, the ziplining options will be different. To make things easier we’ve split this guide up into the North and South Islands, and have listed them from north to south, so you can choose by location.

So, let’s take a look at the best ziplines in the country!

The Best Ziplines in the North Island

1. EcoZip Adventures – Waiheke Island, Auckland

EcoZip Adventures is located just 35-minutes from downtown Auckland by ferry [book your discounted pass using the promo code NZTTPLAY], on Waiheke Island. This is a popular day-trip or weekend getaway option for people in Auckland thanks to the vast number of activities on offer and its relaxed vibe.

There you’ll find three ziplines, offering fun and adventure conveniently close to town. Each of the lines is over 200 metres long, so although this is one of the smaller courses on the list, you’ll still get plenty of airtime.

The first zipline races above a working vineyard and as it is a twin zipline, you can soar through the skies with your buddy by your side.

Next up is the ‘City View’ zipline which offers city views and will take you through an ancient rainforest canopy.

However, the highlight has to be ‘Kuri Nui’ which is the steepest zipline. This one reaches speeds of up to 50km/hr! It also offers scenic views of Auckland and its beaches.

EcoZip uses an automatic braking system which makes its lines accessible to people of almost all ages and physical abilities.

150 Trig Hill Road, Onetangi, Waiheke Island 1081

Book: EcoZip Adventures with your NZTT discount.

2. Coromandel Zipline Tours

The Coromandel is one of the most beautiful areas in the North Island so where better to go ziplining?

One of a number of amazing local experiences, Coromandel Zipline Tours offers one of the most unique experiences as you’ll head up the only mountain railway in New Zealand to start your adventure.

From there, you’ll fly along eight ziplines through native forestry whilst learning about the area from your knowledgable guides. You’ll also get epic views of the country’s largest tree – the kauri – and spot plenty of native bird species along the way.

Even better, this company is a charitable organisation so all its profits go towards preserving New Zealand’s native forests. When you fly with them, you’re supporting New Zealand’s incredible natural environment, all whilst having a bunch of fun.

380 Driving Creek Road, Coromandel 3506

3. Waitomo Caves Zipline Park

If you’re looking for a unique experience, then make sure you check out Waitomo Caves Zipline Park.

It’s considered to be the most action-packed zipline in New Zealand and though it isn’t set in the beautiful bush setting that others on this list are, it still has plenty to offer!

There are 10 ziplines in total and they’re all set within a 1km circuit. The largest is 280m long and you can reach speeds of up to 80km/hr on it which is insane!

You’ll be guided throughout the course every step of the way, and will be taught how to control your own gear too.

Not only will you get to soar through native forests, but you’ll get to learn about Māori history throughout your time here too.

When you’re finished, be sure to check out the other amazing activities and attractions in Waitomo. As one of the most popular tourist destinations in the North Island, you’ll want to allow yourself enough time to see the glow worms [use the promo code NZTTPLAY to save 10%] for sure!

24 Te Anga Road, Waitomo Caves 3997

Book: Waitomo Caves Zipline Park | Discounts for Waitomo Caves Zipline Park [BookMe].

4. Rotorua Canopy Tours

Rotorua Canopy Tours is the premium ziplining adventure in Aotearoa. In fact, Tripadvisor actually awarded them the ‘world’s best nature experience’ in 2021!

There are two different courses, each with six ziplines in total. On the ‘original tour’ you’ll soar across lines totalling 600m, above the prehistoric forest. Whereas the ‘ultimate tour’ will see you cover 1,200m of line on the adventure of a lifetime.

As well as ziplines, you’ll also be traversing swing bridges, cliff walks, and tree-top platforms making both courses quite the experience.

You won’t have to worry about safety though as you’ll have two experienced guides with you at all times. The groups are small too with a maximum of 10 people – that way you’ll have their undivided attention throughout. Along with a focus on safety and comfort, your guides will also explain the incredible work they’re doing to restore the region’s native birdlife and give you a chance to meet some of these birds up close.

Both tours are amazing, but our favourite is ‘the ultimate’ – with a great combination of ziplining, high ropes and nature, it’s hard to go past!

147 Fairy Springs Road, Fairy Springs, Rotorua 3015

Check rates & availability: Rotorua Canopy Tours.

5. Rotorua Ziplines

Rotorua Ziplines, based just out of Rotorua, is the newest ziplining course New Zealand has on offer.

This experience will take you soaring through native forests, over waterfalls, and across the iconic Kaituna River!

There are four zip lines in total, as well as a swing bridge and a series of elevated boardwalks, so you’ll need to allow around 2.5 hours for this experience.

The longest zipline here is 236m and there is a dual zipline too – perfect for racing on. They also have a couple of fun little surprises that you’ll discover when out on the course. For us, the first two ziplines really were the standout, as both take you across the stunning Kaituna River.

All along the way, you’ll have two experienced guides with you who do a great job of sharing the region’s Māori history and secrets of the forest. They’ll also encourage anyone in your group that’s feeling a little nervous.

761 State Highway 33, Okere Falls 3074

Book: Rotorua Ziplines with your NZTT discount.

6. Zoom Ziplines at Skyline Rotorua

If you’ve been to Rotorua before, you’ll have seen the Skyline gondola and luge – it’s an iconic combo in town.

Zoom Ziplines is a relatively new addition to the Skyline lineup and it’s a great way to take to the skies without having to commit too much time.

You’ll race through their majestic redwood forest, so be prepared to get up close to nature.

At 400m long and offering dual cables, it’s the perfect experience if you’re travelling as a pair. You’ll reach speeds of up to 60 km/ph and enjoy spectacular views of Lake Rotorua on your way down. With just one track, it’s quite a different experience from many of the other ziplines on this list.

When you’re finished on the zipline, there are plenty of other adventures awaiting you at Skyline Rotorua including a sky swing, mountain bike park, an award-winning restaurant and, of course, the luge.

185 Fairy Springs Road, Fairy Springs, Rotorua 3015

Book: Zoom Ziplines & gondola pass [discounted] | Half-day adventure pass (Zoom Ziplines, gondola, luge and Skyswing) [discounted].

The Best Ziplining in the South Island

7. The Skywire at Cable Bay Adventure Park – Nelson

Cable Bay Adventure Park is a great place to visit when you’re next in Nelson. It’s home to the Skywire Experience which is one of the world’s longest ‘flying foxes’.

Four people can head down the Skywire at once, reaching speeds of up to 100 km/ph whilst you soar above the forest. It won’t all buzz by though as you’ll also slow down towards the end so you can appreciate the epic views of Cable Bay.

Aside from ziplining, you can also get involved with other adventure activities here including quad bike tours, archery, paintballing and e-bike hire.

With one long wire, this is another great option for those that want a ziplining experience without committing a big chunk of the day to it.

194 Cable Bay Road, Nelson 7071

Book: The Skywire at the Cable Bay Adventure Park.

8. Christchurch Adventure Park

There are tonnes of things to do at Christchurch Adventure Park, but seeing as this is a post about ziplining, it’s clear what you’ll be there for!

There are four lines in total, but the one you just have to go on is the ‘long ride’. It’s the longest zipline in New Zealand (at an incredible 1.1km) and offers epic views of the surrounding forest.

If you have more time, you might like to check out the three other lines they have. Or you can even go on a night tour, where you can have a go on all the ziplines after sundown. This takes around 2.5 hours in total and is perfect for daredevils.

225 Worsleys Road, Cracroft, Christchurch 8022

Book: Christchurch Adventure Park [discounted] – The full tour | Just the last (and longest) zipline.

Related: 12 Unmissable Christchurch Activities, As Shared by a Local.

9. Ziptrek Ecotours – Queenstown

Ziptrek Ecotours is an adventure company known across the world and has sites in Canada, as well as New Zealand.

They have a couple of tour options when it comes to ziplining in Queenstown that is suitable for both complete beginners and more experienced zip-liners.

The Moa Tour is more suitable for families and first-timers, whilst the Kea Tour is the most popular package. This allows you to go on six ziplines including the steepest tree-to-tree zipline in the world!

The Kea Tour lasts between 2.5-5 hours and has an age restriction of six years old.

45 Camp Street, Queenstown 9300

Book: Ziplining on 2 lines | 4 lines | 6 lines – Use the promo code NZTTPLAY to save 10%.

Related: 8 Epic Queenstown Adventure Activities for Adrenaline Junkies!

10. The Fox at Shotover Canyon Swing – Queenstown (Temporarily Closed)

This company may be most famous for its terrifying canyon swing [use the promo code NZTTPLAY to save 10%], but there’s also a pretty epic zipline on site too!

Shotover Canyon Swing is home to ‘The Fox’ which is the perfect adventure experience for adrenaline-seekers and those keen to dip their toes into the world of more full-on adventure.

You’ll ride two different ziplines – each of them terrifyingly amazing!

Line 1 is the only zipline in the world in which gravity drops you from 182m, where you’ll scream through a second of freefall before hooking into the flying fox and being taken across the canyon. Be prepared for insane views along the way.

Line 2 is a little bit less extreme but still amazing. At 138m high, it’s still serious business, but if you’ve made it through the first, this one will feel like a walk in the park. This line runs dual tracks so you can race alongside a friend or family member.

This really is unlike any other ziplines in New Zealand (and as far as we know, in the world), so is top of our must-do adventure list in Queenstown. If it sounds a bit extreme for you, don’t worry – there are lots of other amazing activities available locally.

Pick up from 34 Shotover Street, Queenstown 9300

At the time of writing, The Fox was closed due to COVID-19. Check with them to see if they’re reopened the lines, or head out on the Canyon Swing.

11. Kawarau Zipride – Queenstown

AJ Hackett offers some epic adventures including three Queenstown bungy jumps, a swing and a catapult! However, the one attraction they have that suits practically everyone is their take on a zipline.

The Kawarau Zipride is a 130m line that offers scenic views of Kawarau Gorge – if you can keep your eyes open!

Three lines run side by side so you can experience this adventure together, and you can even take the ‘Superman’ pose on the way down.

Just be prepared to reach speeds of up to 60 km/ph as you travel over the gorge!

Book: Kawarau Bridge Bungy Jumping Experience by AJ Hackett.

1693 State Highway 6, Gibbston 9300

Did you know? Children must be eight years old to ride. Those between eight and nine must tandem with an adult.

12. Paradise Ziplines – Glenorchy

The most stunning zipline in the Southern Lakes region, Paradise Ziplines offers fun ziplining at a really reasonable price. Home to eight epic ziplines, over 1,000m of track, and stunning river views – this place has so much to offer!

Each zipline is unique, with some featuring scenic views of Mt Aspiring National Park, whilst others take you soaring right through the forest.

As it’s a full eight-line course, be prepared to spend a good couple of hours here.

Pick up from 25 Mull Street, Glenorchy

Book: All About Paradise Tour.

Paradise Ziplines are currently operating from the beginning of October until the end of April. Outside of the warmer months, you’ll need to zip with another company on this list.

As you can see there are plenty of amazing ziplines in New Zealand!

Whether you’re looking to whizz through the forest or you’d prefer epic mountain views – there’s something for everyone.

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Have you been brave enough to take on any of these ziplines?

If you have, we’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below!