Paragliding in New Zealand
Paragliding, also known as parapenting, combines hang-gliding and parachuting, where you sore above breathtaking landscapes in perhaps a less intimidating environment than parachuting yet, still with loads of exhiliration.
Although it's similar to both hang-gliding and parachuting, paragliding is actually easier to learn than either sport. There is a greater ease of control (due to the lower speeds, greater stability, lower stall speeds and lesser physical demands) but with correspondingly less acrobatic manoeuvrability and range.
If you are new to paragliding in New Zealand, special instruction is given and you can take a tandem flight with an experienced instructor.
Paragliders are suitable for mountain flying in low-wind conditions, and are best suited to thermally active areas or coastal locations where a sea-breeze is prevalent.
Experienced parapenters will discover that the Central Otago region and the alpine resort of Queenstown are prime spots for paragliding in New Zealand, with the rugged Remarkables range and Lake Wakatipu providing a stunning backdrop.
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Gliding in New Zealand
Gliding uses sailplanes that do not use motors (other than initial take off). Because a glider does not use a motor it is always falling through the air, meaning gliders use air that is going up at least as fast as the glider is decending to stay airbourne. Three techniques used are thermals, ridge and wave lift.
There are not many restrictions to gliding in New Zealand, contact a club to see if you're eligible. You can receive training to learn to fly free of charge!
Clubs for gliding in New Zealand are located throughout the country, including:
- Alexandra
- Alexandra
- Blenheim
- Christchurch
- Greytown
- Hastings
- Matamata
- Nelson
- Omarama
- Rotorua
- Taranaki
- Taupo
- Tauranga
- Thames
- Timaru
- Upper Hutt
- Wellington
- Whangarei
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