Wānaka Paragliding FAQ
Everything You Need to Know

We’ll provide a helmet and gloves, but feel free to bring your own if preferred.

Footwear: Wear good shoes suitable for running during takeoff. Hiking boots with strong tread and ankle support are ideal, but sneakers or running shoes are fine unless there’s snow or ice on the takeoff site.

Clothing: Bring a jacket suitable for the season—something that protects against the wind is perfect.

Accessories: Sunglasses are highly recommended for eye protection.

This will ensure you’re comfortable and fully prepared for a safe, enjoyable flight!

Not at all! There are two types of landings in tandem paragliding: standing landings and slide landings. Our pilots will always choose the safest method for you.

Standing Landing: Typically gentle and controlled, allowing you to land on your feet.

Slide Landing: You’ll land seated, sliding smoothly on the harness, which has a protective airbag underneath. This technique ensures there’s no impact on your knees or ankles.

Your safety and comfort are our top priorities!

The entire experience takes around one hour, starting from when we meet you at the base of Treble Cone until we land back beside your car.

Average Flight Time: 10-12 minutes without any thermal air currents.

‍Extended Flights: If we have strong thermals and good weather conditions, we can fly for longer!

We’ll always aim to maximise your time in the air for the best experience possible.

Yes, there are a few guidelines:

Weight Limit: The standard weight limit is 35kg to 98kg. During Autumn and Winter, the maximum weight reduces to 90kg.

Age Limit: Passengers under 18 require parental consent. We have specially designed harnesses for children to ensure their safety and comfort.

We’ll send you a confirmation via text message or WhatsApp on the morning of your flight. If the weather isn’t suitable, we’ll let you know immediately.

Important: Please provide a valid mobile number when booking so we can keep you updated with any changes.

Please arrive a little early so you’re parked, dressed, and ready to go at your booked time.

Note: We can only hold your reservation for 10 minutes. Late arrivals may impact other passengers booked later in the day.

Weather Cancellations: If we can’t fly due to weather, you’ll receive a full refund, or we’ll try to reschedule for the next suitable day if that works for you.

Customer Cancellations: For a full refund, please notify us at least 48 hours in advance by emailing info@wanakaparagliding.co.nz.

We recommend booking early in your stay to maximise your chances of flying!

Yes, absolutely! Friends can relax at our landing field, where we have shade, beanbags, and seating. It’s a great spot to watch the entire flight and see the landing.

Note: Non-passengers are not permitted to ride to the takeoff in our minibus.

Yes, you need to declare any of the following medical conditions. This won’t necessarily prevent you from flying, but we need to be aware to ensure your safety:

• Pregnancy (We recommend not flying in the second or third trimester)
• Heart Condition
• Recent Sprains or Muscular Injuries
• Panic/Anxiety Attacks
• High/Low Blood Pressure
• Bone Disorders
• Fragile Skin
• Dislocations
• Diabetes
• Epilepsy
• Prosthetics
• Neurological
• Disorders
• Disabilities
• Physical Impairment
• Motion Sickness

Unfortunately, no. For safety reasons, we don’t allow any items that could drop from a height.

Please make sure to secure your keys, loose change, and other small items in a zipped pocket, or give them to your pilot to store safely in your harness.

Yes, we do! Our pilots capture a great selection of photos and videos during your flight.

• Payment: Please bring cash and pay your pilot directly.
• Delivery: We’ll transfer the photos and videos straight to your mobile phone after your flight.

It’s the perfect way to relive the experience and share it with others!

Yes, depending on the conditions and your pilot’s safety assessment.If you’re interested, please let your pilot know before the briefing, as an additional safety briefing is required.