Kaikōura: Zipline Adventure, 4x4 River Drive & Forest Walk

Summary

Zip through Kaikōura valleys ride a Unimog and walk wild forest

You’ll zip across five lines above Kaikōura’s rolling farmland, ride through rivers in a custom Unimog 4x4 with a local guide, and wander native forest trails on foot. Expect hands-on moments like tree planting (in season) and plenty of laughs along the way. If you want adrenaline with real New Zealand flavor, this day sticks with you.

What’s the experience like?

“You sure you’re ready for this?” That’s what our guide, Josh, asked as we clipped in at the first zipline above Rakanui Station. I laughed — nerves and excitement mixing together. The harness felt snug but my palms were sweaty (I’m not proud). Kaikōura was spread out below us, all tangled green hills and that sharp salty air from South Bay. It was colder than I expected; the wind up there bites a bit, but it wakes you right up. When we launched, the sound of the cable whirring drowned out everything else for a second — just air and speed and someone behind me whooping like they’d never done this before.

The drive out from central Kaikōura was its own little adventure. We piled into this beast of a Unimog — big tires, loud engine, everyone grinning like kids. Crossing the Kahutara River in that thing? Bumpy as hell but honestly fun. Josh kept pointing out birds I’d never have noticed (he called one a tūī — I probably said it wrong). The farm is huge, 3,000 acres or something wild like that. There’s this part where you step off the vehicle and suddenly it’s quiet except for sheep somewhere far off and your boots crunching on gravel.

I didn’t expect to care about the conservation bit but planting a tree felt oddly grounding after all that adrenaline. The walk through native bush smelled earthy and damp — like rain even though it hadn’t rained in days. Our group got quieter here; maybe tired or just soaking it in. One guy tried to spot every fern species (no idea if he succeeded). Lunch wasn’t included but someone shared chocolate at the end while we waited for the shuttle back. I still think about that view from the last zipline — you can see forever if you look long enough.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Half day zipline adventure in Kaikoura

• Depart from central Kaikoura
• Take 15-minute scenic shuttle ride
• Gear up at staging location
• Ride custom-built Unimog 4X4
• Zipline over valleys and farmland
• Enjoy 360-degree views of Kaikoura

Top questions

How long does the Kaikōura zipline adventure take?

The whole experience lasts about 3.5 hours including transfers.

Is pickup included in this Kaikōura zipline tour?

Yes, complimentary pickup from EcoZip homebase in central Kaikōura is included.

How many ziplines are there on this tour?

You’ll fly on five giant dual ziplines ranging from 250m to 620m each.

What kind of vehicle do we ride during the trip?

A custom-built Unimog 4X4 takes you across rivers and farmland to reach the ziplines.

Is lunch provided during the half day zipline adventure?

No lunch is included but snacks may be shared among guests; bring your own if needed.

Are there any weight restrictions for ziplining?

The minimum weight is 66lbs (30kg) and maximum is 275lbs (125kg).

Does this tour include any conservation activities?

Yes, tree planting is offered during certain seasons as part of the conservation effort.

Is this suitable for beginners or people with no experience?

Yes, it’s suitable for all fitness levels though not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with heart conditions.

What’s included

Your half-day includes complimentary pickup from central Kaikōura homebase, five dual flying-fox ziplines over native forest and farmland, an expert local guide throughout, a rugged river crossing and farm drive aboard a custom-built Unimog 4x4, plus guided walks through private bushland with seasonal tree planting as part of their conservation efforts before returning to town by shuttle.