Swoop and soar your way through New Zealand’s top swings

Forget your typical playground ride, New Zealand’s supersized swings are the real deal for adventure-seekers of all ages. Strap into a harness, rip the cord, and soar through the sky at exhilarating speeds – it’s an adrenaline junkie’s dream come true. Luckily for you, there’s many scenic swinging spots to choose from, over canyons, rivers, cliffs and farmland – here’s some of our favourites.

Swoop | Rotorua

Experience your very own superhero moment by flying through the air at speeds of up to 130 km/hr – this is Rotorua’s Swoop. Secured in a giant pouch (by yourself or with up to two brave friends), you’ll slowly be raised up and up to a height of 40 metres – akin to an 11-storey building. Then, your fate is in your hands – you hold the power to rip the release cord and swoop headfirst above the picturesque farmland below. Any frightening feelings will soon be replaced with an absolute adrenaline hit – don’t forget to purchase photos and videos to remember your experience by. There’s plenty more thrills on offer at Velocity Valley too, if there’s a different kind of sensation you’re after.

 

Shotover Canyon Swing | Queenstown

The world’s first-ever canyon swing is also the world’s highest cliff jump – a whopping 60 metres of freefall fun. It’s a spine-tingling, heart-pounding experience that will take you well out of your comfort zone and into a realm of adrenaline and sheer excitement, all mixed into one. Take the leap yourself or be released into the canyon below – as you shriek with joy the entire way. It’s equal parts scary and spectacular, but you’ll leave with no regrets and with some awesome content to add to the ’gram.

 

Nevis Swing | Queenstown

Perhaps the most famous swing in the world, this 300-metre-arc (that’s right, 300 metres) is sure to get the heart racing and excitement levels up. Take the Bungy Bus from downtown Queenstown and head to this scenic ravine. Suspended high above the Nevis River, go solo or tandem, and choose your swinging style – forwards, backwards, upside down, or your own one-of-kind signature moves. Yes, you’ll likely scream. But you’ll love it.

Another unbeatable rush in Queenstown is the Ledge Swing. At the time of writing, The Ledge was temporarily closed, ensure you check the latest opening hours before your visit – but at 47 metres high overlooking Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu, the panoramic views from this swing sure beat the local park! Ride the iconic Skyline Gondola up the hill (or take on a hiking trail if you’re feeling fit) to the Ledge, where your friends and family can spectate the entire thing and snap some impressive pics. Soar over the cityscape then make the most of the Luge and Stratosfare Restaurant afterwards to round off your visit.

 

So whether you’re all about that adrenaline, seeking an alternative to a bungy jump, or looking to step outside your comfort zone and try something new – a giant swing has got your name all over it.