Bay of Islands: 12,000ft Skydive with Pickup & Local Guide

Summary

Skydive above 144 islands with wild ocean views and local stories

You’ll ride out from Paihia or Kerikeri with pickup included, meet your local skydiving crew, get harnessed up and briefed before leaping over the Bay of Islands from 12,000ft—with views stretching toward Cape Reinga if you’re lucky with weather. Expect nerves, laughter, wild ocean colors, and a rush that lingers long after you land.

What’s the experience like?

I forgot my hair tie. That’s what I was thinking about as we rolled out from Paihia in the shuttle—of all things. Our guide, Sam, just grinned and said it’d be “windy enough to sort you out.” The drive up to the drop zone felt longer than it probably was; I kept staring at the clouds, half-hoping for a weather delay but also not really. There were a few of us in the van, mostly strangers, but by the time we got our harnesses on we’d already swapped nervous jokes. Someone tried to pronounce Kerikeri properly (I won’t say who). Li laughed when I tried to say it in Mandarin—probably butchered it.

The training was quick but somehow made me trust these guys more—they didn’t sugarcoat anything. My instructor, Dave, checked my straps three times and told me about Waitangi and its history while we waited for our turn. He pointed out where Cape Reinga would be if the clouds cleared (they didn’t), and I liked that he didn’t pretend otherwise. Then suddenly we were in this tiny plane climbing way too fast over all those islands—the water below looked almost fake, like someone had cranked up the color dial. I could smell fuel mixed with salty air and something sharp from my own nerves.

The jump itself is still kind of a blur—a roaring rush and then silence so wide I forgot to breathe for a second. Forty seconds of freefall isn’t long but it’s enough to feel like you’ve left your old self somewhere up there. When the chute opened, Dave pointed down at Motuarohia Island and Waitangi again—little dots now—and I remember thinking how small everything looked compared to how huge it felt inside my chest. My hands were shaking when we landed but I couldn’t stop grinning. We all hugged each other even though nobody knew anyone’s last name.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Bay of Islands skydive and views

• Arrive at Bay of Islands
• Meet tandem skydiving instructors
• Skydive from 12,000 feet
• Enjoy 40 seconds freefall
• View 144 islands from sky
• See Paihia coastal town
• Pass by historic Russell town
• Spot Waitangi grounds from air
• View largest island hiking trails
• See Kerikeri historic town
• Fly over Cape Brett rock formation
• Observe rugged peninsula cliffs
• Pass Rainbow Warrior memorial
• Reference Cape Reinga spiritual site

Top questions

How high do you jump during the Bay of Islands skydive?

The skydive is from 12,000 feet above the Bay of Islands.

Is pickup included for the Bay of Islands skydive?

Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from central Paihia and Kerikeri.

How long does the whole skydive experience take?

It typically takes about 1.5 hours but allow 2-4 hours due to weather or operational changes.

What is the minimum age for skydiving here?

The minimum age is 8 years old; those under 18 need signed consent from a parent or guardian.

Do I need any previous experience to skydive in Bay of Islands?

No previous experience is needed; all training and safety equipment are provided on site.

Can you see Cape Reinga during the skydive?

Cape Reinga isn’t usually visible unless conditions are perfect; guides will point it out if possible.

What should I wear for skydiving in Bay of Islands?

Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes as required for safety reasons.

What’s included

Your day includes central pickup from Paihia or Kerikeri, full training with professional instructors who know every island story by heart, all safety equipment provided at the drop zone—and a ride back once your feet are finally back on solid ground.